Paradox of an Icebox?

Being a 700,000-year-old lava tube has it's anomalies. Discovered in 1915, Arizona's Lava River Cave is an amazing natural icebox. (In fact, it COULD be considered the largest "refrigerator" in northern AZ). On the hottest day of summer, when the temperature outside the cave is 90- degrees, just inside the temperature is 35-degrees and sometimes there's ice! The dark lava rock exterior of the cave acts as an excellent insulator, and the highest point of the cave is the entrance, trapping cold air inside. According to historians, early homesteaders would collect large quantities of ice from the cave. The ice was used for refrigeration, cooling drinks and maybe even to help create a rare summer treat - ICE CREAM! Sturdy-soled shoes, preferably "contra-grip" adventure shoes, are recommended for exploring the slippery innards of Lava River Cave. Also, don't forget a light jacket and flashlight. There are NO established facilities or electricity at this remote cave. August 6, 2009