Exploring the Big Four Ice Caves
Nestled in the heart of Washington’s Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, the Big Four Ice Caves offer a breathtaking natural wonder that draws adventurers year-round. While this popular destination is a relatively short trek in the warmer months, winter transforms it into a more challenging—and rewarding—7-mile hike due to seasonal gate closures. The Big Four Ice Caves sit at the base of the 6,160-foot Big Four Mountain, formed by avalanches and the persistent freeze-thaw cycles of the Cascades. Snow piles up at the mountain’s base, and over time, it compacts into ice, hollowed out by melting water and wind to create stunning caves. These icy grottoes glow with an ethereal blue hue, making them a must-see for hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts alike. However, they’re not without risks—more on that later. During the summer, the Big Four Ice Caves Trail is a manageable 2.2-mile round-trip hike, starting from a trailhead just off the Mountain Loop Highway. But ...