Veal’s Ice Tree is back for the 2026 winter season! Thanks to weeks of below-freezing temperatures and fresh snow, this backyard wonder is already thriving. The tree will continue to grow and transform throughout winter as the cold allows.
Update (Feb. 5): The Ice Tree stands an estimated 35–40 feet tall and is open daily from sunrise to 10 p.m.
What began as a backyard accident in 1961 has become a beloved Indiana tradition. Veal’s Ice Tree is a towering ice sculpture built entirely from nearby pond water. Photos don’t do it justice — you have to see it in person to believe it. And yes, it’s completely free!
For the latest updates, follow facebook.com/vealsicetree.
Related: 60 Things To Do This Winter in Indianapolis
Ice Tree Weather Forecast
- Friday, Feb. 6: Best viewing when temperatures stay below 30°. Above that, the tree may look a little duller.
- Saturday & Sunday, Feb. 7–8: Prime viewing days. The Ice Tree will be sparkling. Expect crowds, and please be patient and kind.
- Road conditions: Back roads may not be plowed and could be slick. Drive carefully.
- Monday, Feb. 9 & beyond: The Ice Tree should remain tall, but it will gradually lose color, size, and icicles over time. It typically fades away by mid to late April.
Before You Go
- Address: 6445 Mimosa Lane, Indianapolis, IN 46259 (south side)
- Parking: Park in the driveway by the info box or drive the loop for a windshield view. Do not park on the east side of Mimosa Lane or near the sharp curve.
- Road note: Southeastern Ave and Mimosa Lane may not be plowed, so take it slow. Watch for a sharp curve after Acton Road.
- On-site: Enter the driveway on the left side. Stay on the pavement at all times.
- Pets: Leashed pets are welcome.
- Be kind: Please be patient with fellow visitors, especially on busy weekends.
- No fee: They do not charge or take donations. If you’d like to give back, consider donating to Wheeler Mission to help those in need during the cold weather.
- Donate hoses: If you have unwanted vinyl or rubber garden hoses, the Veal family can often put them to good use for future Ice Trees.
- Not a business: The Ice Tree is a hobby the Veal family loves to share.
What Is Veal’s Ice Tree?
A seasonal attraction and family tradition in Indiana that began in 1961 and continues today. The Veal family creates this massive ice sculpture using water from a nearby pond.
When Can You Visit?
The Ice Tree is typically on display from January through early spring, depending on the weather. For 2026, visiting hours are sunrise to 10 p.m. Conditions can change quickly, so check Facebook or the Veal’s Ice Tree website before you go.
How Much Does It Cost?
Free.
How Tall Does It Get?
In most years, it reaches 35–40 feet. The record was an estimated 79–80 feet in 2014. Height depends on freezing temperatures and how much time the Veal family can dedicate to building. Current estimated height (Feb. 5, 2026): 35–40 feet.
Photos from this post show Veal’s Ice Tree from previous years.
[…] Veal’s Ice Tree: This mind-boggling and utterly massive ice sculpture is nearly impossible to describe- all the more reason to see it for yourself! Created with nearby pond water, this 1961 backyard accident has transformed into an annual tradition enjoyed by the masses. Veal’s Ice Tree is formed every January and is open for visitors until it melts in April. You don’t want to miss out on seeing this nearly 35-feet (and growing!) ice sculpture dancing with color and holiday flair. […]