The Ice Stone is a peculiar evolutionary item that has become a staple for trainers focusing on Ice-type teams since its introduction in the Alola region. Characterized by its unmistakable snowflake pattern and a cool, blue glow, this stone is essential for triggering transformations in several unique species, particularly those with regional forms. Unlike the classic Fire or Water Stones, the Ice Stone was relatively late to the series, filling a gap for species that previously relied on environmental level-ups or had no evolutionary path at all.

The Complete Evolution List for Ice Stone Pokemon

Understanding which species respond to the Ice Stone is the first step for any collector or competitive player. As of the current meta in early 2026, there are six primary evolutionary lines that utilize this item. Each offers a distinct tactical advantage, especially when considering the "Snow" weather condition which replaced the old "Hail" mechanic in recent generations.

Alolan Vulpix into Alolan Ninetales

One of the most sought-after evolutions, Alolan Vulpix requires an Ice Stone to become the majestic Alolan Ninetales. This Ice/Fairy-type is a cornerstone of competitive play due to its ability, Snow Warning, which automatically summons snow upon entry. More importantly, Alolan Ninetales is one of the few Pokemon capable of using Aurora Veil, a move that provides the effects of both Reflect and Light Screen in a single turn. Evolving Vulpix with the stone immediately changes its stat distribution, shifting it into a fast, supportive lead with respectable Special Defense.

Alolan Sandshrew into Alolan Sandslash

In contrast to its Fire-type counterpart, the Alolan Sandshrew is an Ice/Steel-type. Using an Ice Stone transforms this burrowing Pokemon into Alolan Sandslash, a physical powerhouse with massive defense. In the snowy weather common in the Glaseado Mountain or the newer Wild Zones of Lumiose, Alolan Sandslash becomes a terrifying threat thanks to the Slush Rush ability, which doubles its speed. This makes it a premier physical sweeper that can resist a surprising number of types, provided it stays away from Fire and Fighting moves.

Eevee into Glaceon

Historically, Eevee evolved into Glaceon only when leveled up near an Ice Rock. However, starting in the Galar region and continuing through the current titles, this mechanic was streamlined. Now, simply using an Ice Stone on Eevee triggers the evolution. Glaceon boasts one of the highest Special Attack stats among all Eeveelutions. While its speed is lacking, its bulk and sheer power with moves like Blizzard and Freeze-Dry make it a valuable asset in Trick Room teams or as a defensive pivot in snow-heavy compositions.

Galarian Darumaka into Galarian Darmanitan

The Ice-type variant of Darumaka found in the colder reaches of Galar is another recipient of the Ice Stone's power. Upon evolution, Galarian Darmanitan gains incredible physical strength. Trainers particularly value its Gorilla Tactics ability, which functions like a built-in Choice Band, boosting Attack but locking the Pokemon into one move. This evolution represents one of the most significant power jumps in the game, turning a small, bouncy creature into a heavy hitter that can punch holes through even the sturdiest defensive walls.

Crabrawler into Crabominable

For a long time, Crabrawler could only evolve at high altitudes like Mount Lanakila. With the expansion of the Paldea region and the discoveries in the latest Wild Zones, the Ice Stone has become the primary method for this evolution. Crabominable is a unique Ice/Fighting-type. While it suffers from numerous weaknesses and low speed, its Iron Fist ability boosts its punching moves significantly. Using an Ice Stone on Crabrawler is best done after ensuring it has learned its most potent physical Fighting-type moves, as Crabominable relies heavily on its raw brawling stats.

Cetoddle into Cetitan

The newest addition to the Ice Stone family from the Paldea region is Cetoddle. This round, land-dwelling whale evolves into the massive Cetitan when exposed to an Ice Stone. Cetitan is defined by its colossal HP stat. With abilities like Thick Fat (which reduces damage from Fire and Ice moves) or Sheer Force, it can act as either an immovable tank or a heavy-hitting attacker. Given its pure Ice typing, maximizing its bulk through the Ice Stone evolution is a common strategy for players navigating the higher-tier raids and the latest challenges in the Lumiose sectors.

Where to Find Ice Stones in Current Games

Finding an Ice Stone is no longer restricted to a single hidden corner of the map. Modern games provide multiple avenues to secure this item, whether through exploration, commerce, or mini-games.

Pokémon Scarlet and Violet (including DLC)

In the Paldea region, the Ice Stone is most commonly found in the Glaseado Mountain and the Dalizapa Passage. Players often spot them as sparkling overworld items on the ground. For those who have progressed to the Blueberry Academy in the Polar Biome, Ice Stones are frequent rewards from the Item Printer or can be found tucked away in the snowy crevices of the artificial environment. Unlike some rarer stones, you can also find them as a rare stock in the Delibird Presents shops after gaining enough Gym Badges.

Pokémon Legends: Arceus

In the Hisui region (Sinnoh's past), the Alabaster Icelands is the primary source. Trainers can find Ice Stones by smashing ore deposits or digging through snow piles. Additionally, the Trading Post in Jubilife Village offers them for 1,000 Merit Points—earned by returning lost satchels. There is also a specific side quest, "Irida's Wish," which guarantees an Ice Stone as a reward upon completion.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A

In the recently opened districts of Lumiose City and its surrounding Wild Zones, obtaining an Ice Stone has been integrated into the urban redevelopment missions. Specifically, Side Mission 102: "A Chilling Challenge" provides a stone as a reward. For those exploring the Bleu District and the Rouge District, Ice Stones can be found in the sewers and certain hidden alleys (specifically Rouge Sector 4 and 8). The shopping district on Vernal Avenue also features a specialty stone shop that stocks them, though the price is significantly higher than in other regions.

Historical Context and Evolution Mechanics

The Ice Stone was introduced in Generation VII (Sun and Moon) to accommodate the new Alolan forms. Before this, Ice-type evolutions were almost exclusively tied to the "Icy Rock" map mechanic. This was often frustrating for players, as the Icy Rock was usually located near the end of the game (such as the basement of Twist Mountain or the depths of Shoal Cave), meaning trainers couldn't use their evolved Ice types for most of their journey.

The transition to the Ice Stone allowed for more flexible team building. For example, in Pokémon Sword and Shield, you can find an Ice Stone as early as Route 9 or by utilizing the Digging Duo in Bridge Field. This shift reflects a broader design philosophy toward player freedom, allowing for a Glaceon or an Alolan Sandslash to be part of a mid-game roster rather than a post-game afterthought.

Even in spin-offs like Pokémon Sleep, the Ice Stone retains its importance. It is required to evolve certain species like Alolan Vulpix and Eevee within the sleep-tracking app, usually costing around 1,400 Sleep Points in the regular exchange. This consistency across the franchise reinforces the Ice Stone's status as a fundamental tool in the Pokemon ecosystem.

Tactical Advice for Using the Ice Stone

When should you use your Ice Stone? While it might be tempting to evolve your Cetoddle or Alolan Vulpix immediately, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

  1. Move Pool Availability: In older generations, evolving a Pokemon too early often meant it would stop learning new moves naturally. In the current 2026 meta, the Move Relearner mechanic is much more forgiving. However, it is still wise to check if your pre-evolution learns a specific utility move that the evolved form might not. For instance, Alolan Vulpix learns certain support moves earlier than Ninetales.
  2. Weather Synergy: The Ice Stone Pokemon are significantly more effective in the Snow. If you are planning to evolve these species, consider pairing them with a Pokemon that has the Snow Warning ability or at least the move Snowscape. The 50% Defense boost Ice types receive in the snow is vital for their survival.
  3. Item Rarity: While Ice Stones are easier to find now than in the Alola days, they still sell for a decent price (typically around 750 to 2,500 PokeDollars depending on the game). If you have multiple Eevees or Cetoddles, prioritize evolving the one with the best Nature and IVs, as the stones can still be a bit of a grind to find in the early stages of a new playthrough.

Comparing the Ice Stone to the Icy Rock

It is important not to confuse the Ice Stone with the Icy Rock or the Icy Rock (held item). The Icy Rock held item extends the duration of the Snow weather from five turns to eight. The Icy Rock environmental feature (the large mossy-like frozen boulder found in older games) is what the Ice Stone effectively replaced as an evolutionary trigger.

In games like Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl, although the Ice Stone's data exists in the code, Eevee still requires the Icy Rock on Route 217 to become Glaceon. This outlier serves as a reminder of the franchise's long history and the gradual transition toward the more convenient stone-based system we enjoy in the modern era.

Final Thoughts for Trainers

The Ice Stone remains one of the most aesthetically pleasing and strategically significant items in the Pokemon world. Whether you are navigating the snowy peaks of Paldea or the futuristic streets of Lumiose in Legends: Z-A, keeping a few Ice Stones in your bag is always a good idea. From the defensive utility of Alolan Ninetales to the raw power of Galarian Darmanitan, the Pokemon that evolve via this stone are among the most interesting and visually distinct in the entire Pokedex. As you continue your journey through the current regions, keep an eye out for that tell-tale snowflake pattern—it might just be the key to unlocking your team's full potential.