Big Four Ice Caves
Granite Falls, Washington
Details
Distance
2.38 miles
Elevation Gain
289 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Michael Matti
Relatively straightforward trail to the outside of the cave. Remember, the inside of the cave is very dangerous, with potential for falling ice. Please stay safe and remain outside the cave.
Disclaimer: Hiking into the caves is extremely dangerous as there is potential for the ice to fall. We do not recommend hiking inside of them and if you choose to do so, you're doing it at your own risk.
This is a short hike at just 2.3 miles roundtrip with little elevation change. The hike takes you through the forest to the side of Big Four Mountain where the Big Four Ice Caves are. The official trail ends at the viewpoint of the first cave entrance but you can walk further or even go inside the cave if you choose. There are plenty of warning signs and people have died inside these caves so please be careful, use your best judgement, and enter at your own risk. It is really wet inside the cave and almost feels like a light rain if the ice is melting and dripping. At the back of the cave is the waterfall that carved the cave.
For the location of the hike Google these coordinates: 48.067916, -121.514354
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Big Four Ice Caves Reviews
This is an amazing spectacle and an easy hike to get there. But be warned, do not enter the ice cave there have been tragic deaths of some who have ventured inside. The ice cave is made from build up of avalanche snow over the winter and the cave develops as water melts and the wind blows into the rock face. The cave can collapse or fail at any time. Be safe and admire from a safe distance.
4.0
Great to look at but be super careful before venturing inside. 1 person died and 4 were injured in a collapse just yesterday. Don't go inside if there is fresh snow on the mountain because of avy danger or when it is warm and/or direct sunlight because the cave is susceptible to collapse.
5.0
The cave was unreal. There are signs warning that it is dangerous to enter, but the temptation is hard to resist and the sights were worth it.
5.0
It's a very easy hike to a beautiful location. Recommend it to anyone with a few hours
3.5
I did this on a frosty week in mid November, which was perfect. I was there just after sunrise, so there were only one other pair of hikers & I had the cave to myself. If you cross over the hill to the right, you'll see a pair of frozen waterfalls.
4.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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