Big Four Ice Caves Trail #723

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Big Four Ice Caves Trail #723

Highlights: Mountain views, Forest, Ice Caves

Distance: 1.0 mile

Beginning Elevation : 1700 feet

Ending Elevation: 1900 feet

Difficulty level: Easiest

Map(s): Green Trails #110 Silverton

Visitor Use: Extra Heavy

SUMMARY: BRIDGE IS DOWN (NOV 2007) check further for condition

The route begins on the same concrete walks used during the Big Four Inn's heyday. Elevated boardwalks cross a low, marshy area created by active beavers. The trail continues through woods, crossing over the tumbling South Fork of the Stillaguamish River on a footbridge.

Hikers enter a dense forest and just beyond this get their first close-up view of the ice fields and the immense north face of the 6,153 foot Big Four Mountain. The caves themselves usually are exposed during August and remain visible through October, for they are in reality melt outlet openings at the base of a permanent snowfield.

WARNING: The caves are extremely dangerous. Tons of ice from the ceilings may come crashing to the floor at any time. Tumbling avalanches are a constant threat through winter and early spring. Skiers and snowshoers are cautioned not to venture too close to the snowfield. The caves are exceptionally dangerous to enter or climb on.

TRAILHEAD ACCESS:From the Verlot Public Service Center (11 miles east of Granite Falls), go east on the Mountain Loop Highway 14.5 miles to the Big Four Picnic Area.

Northwest Forest Pass required to park: Yes

TRAILGUIDE

Best Seasons: Summer/Fall

AREA

Verlot, Granite Falls

RANGER STATION (NEAREST)

1405 Emmens St. Darrington, WA 98241

Open Monday - Friday 8 am - 4:30 pm(360) 436-1155

Verlot PublicService Center

Open Thursday - Monday8 am - 4:30 pm (360) 691-7791

TRAIL REVIEW submit your review

Notice: Hiking in the backcountry can be dangerous. Information on this website comes from a variety of sources. You have to be responsible for using good common sense and researching trails carefully. Things change constantly in the outdoors.

Use caution while hiking so you can enjoy it safely. Don't get in over your head. A call to the ranger station and avalanche hotline(winter) are highly recommended. Bring the ten essentials and make sure someone knows where you are going and expect to be back.