Big Four Ice Caves

These unique ice caves are found at the base of Big Four Mountain and exist because of debris, snow, and melted ice. This ice happens to also form the lowest -elevation glacier in the lower 49 states.

Pay a visit to one of the country’s coolest natural wonders, the Big Four Ice Caves. Located in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, the Big Four Ice Caves are formed by snow and melted ice from the base of Big Four Mountain, a 6,180-foot mountain that shades the caves and allows them to stay all year long. The hike to the caves is an accessible one that awards explorers with incredible views of the mountain, caves, and surrounding landscape. The hike to the caves is also one of the most popular in the entire national forest due to its low difficulty and phenomenal vistas.

Although it may be tempting, visitors are not allowed to climb on top of or go into the ice caves for safety reasons. Avalanches and collapsing snow bridges are common here, especially in the warmer months. It’s still a joy to marvel the caves from the outside and take in the intricate ice formations when the caves are fully visible and there isn’t snow covering them. Surrounded by the beautiful scenery of the national forest, the Big Four Ice Caves showcase just how amazing nature can be and offer a truly unforgettable adventure to those who make the journey to see them.