If you ventured out to the beaches at Presque Isle State Park this week you could catch a glimpse of ice dunes before they melt.
The dunes form from ice washing ashore, along with the freezing of wave spray and snow.
Volunteers needed for Presque Isle Light Station’s summer opportunities
A ranger supervisor with the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources said the dunes are a popular winter attraction.
He also warned that they’re dangerous.
Presque Isle North Pier Lighthouse could soon be locally owned
“They’re often hollow because they’re splashing up basically cones. Very dangerous. Fall through. If you’re lucky you fall through one on land but if you fall through on water it could be very dangerous because of the cold. It’s always important to be with someone if you’re walking in that environment,” said Bryan Hogan, a DCNR ranger supervisor.
The ice dunes form a natural barrier protecting the beach from erosion.
Hogan said when milder winter conditions, like we’re currently experiencing, melt them, it negatively impacts the beach come spring.