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    Big Four Ice Caves

    4.6 (103 reviews)

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    At last!!
    Ngoc R.

    The bridge is cut off right now!! If you want to reach the ice caves you'll have to go around and under the bridge, cross the river and climb up the other side of the bridge to continue your journey. Remember to bring bug spray because there are a lot of those suckers! Overall easy and cool hike, lots of bridges and wood railing, tons of wildflowers closer to the destination which is good for pictures!

    Michael C.

    So COOL... No literally! it's very cool, and cool and also very cold at times... The Big Four Ice Cave trail was recommended to me by one of the Park Rangers at the Verlot station. I was interested in doing some hiking, but was running a bit low on time, so she recommended I check out the Big Four Ice Cave trail. She very accurately described it as a short, scenic hike with a great view that is not too arduous. I completely agree...well for the most part. I'd call it more of a stroll or a light walk than a hike. The path is easy to see, well maintained and the incline is not steep at all. The stroll is only about a mile long each way and doesn't take a lot of effort. The Ice Caves at the end are a sight to see! Something straight out of a movie or a fairy tale. There are plenty of warning signs telling you to stay out of the caves, not to enter, to stay on the path...etc. Use your own judgment...the signs are there for a reason. I do recommend listening to the advice. Unfortunately there is a mural at the end of the trail dedicated to a young girl who got crushed by the ice. I did not enter the Ice caves, even though there were a couple of kids inside. Ummm...so I don't want to die...when I went the roof was dripping...not a good sign...and the melted ice formed a stream of water that just mysteriously disappeared into the rocks...err the ground. Logically, I'd prefer a solid frozen Ice cave in the middle of winter instead of a partially melting roof over my head...but that's just me. I'll be back...when Winter is here...or whenever I get a chance to return.

    Evan Y.

    I came during weekday and it is very easy to find a parking spot. It took about 30 minutes to me to reach the view point (I walked pretty slow), and view was awesome that I felt it was worth to drive all the way and hike here. However, there are lots of mosquitos (in August Note: You might want to bring dry hand wash since there is no hand wash in the restroom. Bring a thick jacket if you want to walk inside the cave; waking inside could be dangerous since it might fall by the way.

    Use common sense.
    Trista H.

    An easy family friendly year-round hike. An excellent snowshoe hike for beginners during the winter months. The NW Forest or America the Beautiful pass is required (passes can be purchased at Verlot Public Service Center). A day pass ($5 cash only) can be purchased at the trail-head. During the winter months, the road to the trail-head is closed so it's best to have the actual pass rather than relying on the day pass. If snowshoeing, plan on a 7-8 mile round-trip hike due to road closures. Parking can be found on the side of the road during the winter months (2-3 miles from the trail-head). During our visit, the ice caves were not visible do to the massive amount of recent snowfall. We did hear and witness minor avalanches at the ice caves while eating our snacks. Beautiful and humbling. Use common sense when visiting the ice caves. Admire from afar, do not go into the ice caves. As always, if you pack it in, pack it out. Keep your footprint to a minimum.

    IG: @pachichai_wanders
    Patricia D.

    [5/100] As stated by my fellow Yelpers, the hike is beautiful! There is different terrains and plenty to see. I had just flew in from Seattle and I drove about 2 hours. The hike wasn't too challenging which I appreciated! There is a very pretty river with clear waters and a metal bridge that is a contrast from all vegetation. The weather was beautiful and even though it was warmer, there was still an ice cave still standing. There is a lot of warning signs stating the danger of standing too close to these ice caves. I think that influenced me than it should have but safe is better than sorry. While I was standing in the ice cave, I heard the ice crackling because it was melting. The sight was still grand but I was definitely cautious! I don't recall paying for parking and there are plenty.There is a trail that will lead right to the caves. It isn't elaborate or a maze. The biggest challenge I found was the drive, other than that, it was a great experience! Many others I know planned a visit after mine and they enjoyed it.

    Erica P.

    This is a beautiful walk! At the trailhead there are bathrooms. The trails are well marked and maintained. The views are just beautiful. The trail starts out fairly flat, with a bit of an incline toward the end. The trail is very shaded until you get to the very end, where you spill out into an open, rocky area with a view of the ice caves. Take heed of the warning signs and don't get too close. There have been injuries and fatalities here. The close-up view is not worth the risk. Cell service is non-existent, so do pack your 10 essentials and be prepared!

    Josh B.

    Once I got to the parking lot after driving from Lacey on a Saturday, there was hardly anyone there and I got there around 11am. I have purchased my Northwest Forest Pass online the night before and was ready to a nice walk to the ice cave. There is a bathroom right before you hit the main trail to the ice cave and a map that gives you perspective of where you are in proximity to other natural wonders. I headed out on the main trail and soon after were joined by a family with loud kids and several unleashed dogs. "Oh great!," I muttered as my eyes rolled since my peace within the forest was being disturbed. Then my mind said "Everyone experiences nature in their own way, and you don't own this forest, trail, or the caves so let it go." I'm glad I listened to my mind because little things can tend to ruin your time and day if you let them and after driving a little over 2.5 hrs to get there, it wasn't worth me dwelling on something I don't have control over. I almost got lost as there was a fork in the trail that turns right and the other way goes left toward the cave and it isn't marked. Luckily, I went left. Shortly after and a little bit of sweating since it was warm, I reached the cave. The closer and closer you get the cooler it gets as there is a nice cooling breeze that exits the cave to give you some release from the warmth if you're moist in your crevices. The cave itself is really something to marvel at. As you inch closer to the entrance the jagged semi-circle shaped mouth appears to howl & even beckon you inside to hidden treasures and the possible death that may lurk inside but then the sheer scale of the behemoth makes those that don't have the philosophy of you only live once second guess themselves and whether they should enter. There are copious amounts of signs leading up to the cave telling you not to enter since several people have died inside during cave collapses. It really is pretty beautiful though. Don't miss out on the water falls near by. You can hear them from the caves, so just hike up a little further and step right in or splash a little water on your face. I will definitely be back and certainly with friends.

    Jen M.

    Easy, short hike, not far from Seattle and its gorgeous!! Sadly there is not as much snow nor ice caves as there was last July, but these are still marvels that never disappoint! We were even lucky enough to get to hear and see the crash and roar of a couple small avalanches that fell behind the main ice cave. Absolutely mesmerizing and one of the cooler things I've seen in a while (no pun intended). :). For those who would want more of a challenge for a hike, going here before or after hiking lake 22 ( very little snow here right now) or mount pilchuck (has more snow) would be well worth it!! Ps. Stop by barbecue bucket afterwards for some awesome food in Granite Falls.

    Inside the ice cave (taken from outside the cave)
    Anton H.

    First things first, DO NOT go under the ice or into the ice caves, no matter how compelling it may be. People have died here more than once. This can be a very dangerous place for those who do not respect the power of Mother Nature. Also, the Mountain Loop Highway is notorious for car break-ins. If you park at ANY trailhead along the highway make sure you do not leave any valuables in sight. It is not uncommon to have 10-20 cars broken into that are parked at a trailhead. With that said, this is a great EASY hike to one of Western Washington's most visited attractions. I wouldn't say the trail is ADA friendly, but I did see a blind man being lead by his son. The "caves" themselves are pretty cool to look at, and the natural air conditioning created by the ice is a welcome feeling on a hot summer day. Really good views, waterfalls, seasonal caves, big trees, pleasant forest....what's not to like. Bathrooms and ample parking are provided at the trail head. If you come during the summer, expect company....this is a high-use trail. Appx. 1 hour from north Seattle. Happy hiking!!

    Bailey R.

    We love this hike, and take our kiddos every summer. Easy for beginners, more of a winding trek than a real hike. We love to poke around at the top, and explore. You'll need a forest pass, or pay $5 at the trail head parking lot.

    Cave in late July 2019

    Went to the Big Four for the umpteenth time today. And though I won't say it's the greatest hike on the Mountain Loop Highway (it's no Pilchuck, for instance) it's a wonderful hike for families with little kids. Bout one mile in and one mile back, it was doable for even my 2 1/2 year old daughter today, who practically jogged her way up the trail to those sweet sweet, snowy caves. Temperature drops about 10 degrees when you're standing outside of the caves, which is really cool. All that icy air coming off the snow feels pretty dang good on a hot Summer day. The whole area at the top is great for picnics, exploration, relaxation, and getting your nature fix. Parking is plentiful but the trail does fill up on weekends by around 10 AM. Get there early to avoid the crowds and enjoy a little more serenity.

    Roger R.

    The main trail to the ice caves is very scenic and easy walking. It's very cool to look at, we went in august and there was still a little snow on the cliffs. Warning!!!!!!! The bathrooms at the start of the trail are god awful. The smell is just like ammonia or worse. Could hardly breath in there. Go to the bathroom before you go!!!!!

    On the way to the caves!
    Michelle V.

    There is a whole new world out there! A destination full of mystery and secrets. A parallel universe broken by a whirlwind of a modern tundra. It was the Lord of the Rings' icy Minas Tirith that resurrected from the dead. I was exposed to a realm that sets the standards high in the supernatural and the wanderlust towards my deepest fantasies! a day pass is $5 and you pay at the ice cave parking lot. this hike is about 2 miles there and back, and it's probably the easiest hiking experience that I've had. It is the training wheels before you go to places like Tiger Mountain (for intermediate hikers). and the ice caves emulate the frostbitten presence of the souls that've died by its unexpected avalanches! so make sure you pack an extra sweater and use EXTREME caution while exploring inside. since it was summertime, the caves were melting, making it more dangerous to check beneath its depths! but it was wonderful!! the cave walls were glossy almost resembling limestone. and what a vibrant aquamarine pigment when light is transparent on where the ice is thinnest. It was the familiar washington rain in there with a dragon's ground-shaking grunt casting the sounds of its storm. The cave however doesn't lead you anywhere bc once youre inside, all you see is the other opening of the cave. Other than that, you become soaked in -30 degrees of ice cold water!! id probably donate to the ALS foundation soon since this is the ice bucket challenge in extreme conditions! i dont know if my experience at the cave was either more frightening than satisfying, actually. it was a whale's mouth gradually prying itself closed uncovering me to the dark corners of the human psyche. but i found comfort in the regard which allowed me to perceive that an incurring moment of danger, and the tenderness of peace can intertwine into a purgatory-like sensation. i had the mild and restraining passion of a man who sits by his wife's death bed, afraid of her drifting, but accepted it bc she lived a life rupturing with meaning. Ive already won the lottery by merely standing at the presence of a wintry bastion manifesting a force beyond the laws of nature. But a bizarre nature that colored my perception in a disposition of remarkable surreal wonder. --------------- Use this address to guide you to campgrounds and other kinds of trailheads including the big four ice caves: Verlot public service center 33515 mtn. loop hwy Granite falls, wa 98252

    POV: Standing at the parking lot near the trailhead!

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    Spectacular and unique geology. Some trail walking to reach the caves and well worth the experience.

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    Page 1 of 3

    Ask the Community - Big Four Ice Caves

    Is there a lot of parking or do I have to come early? Has anyone came 'late' & have parking issues?

    Plenty of parking. they have added a lot in the last few years.

    View All 3 Questions

    Review Highlights - Big Four Ice Caves

    The Big Four Ice Caves is a super easy hike with some paved sections, making it accessible for most people.

    Mentioned in 16 reviews

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    Mount Pilchuck State Park

    Mount Pilchuck State Park

    4.6(14 reviews)
    20.9 mi

    The road up to the trail is in much better shape than I was expecting and when I arrived at 8:30 am…read moreon a sunny Friday, there were plenty of parking spaces left. The trail is very well signaled and maintained. Absolutely GORGEOUS views, challenging enough but not one of those hikes you never want to do again. And the payoff is worth it 100 times.

    This hike is not for the faint of heart. I almost turned back 3 times and the first was just…read moredriving up there! This hike however will reward you with beautiful views and a workout and if you make it to the top you will feel beyond proud of yourself. A quick climb up the ladder to the fire lookout will take you back into history with old letters and photos of what this land once was! It was too hot to read through everything when I came up so I will have to make more trips. The road going up is filled with holes, large holes that your whole car will dip into. I took it slow at first until another car passed me and I found the right technique for my subi. Yea a subi can definitely make the trek but just be gentle on your cars and enjoy the journey! The hike up is all stairclimbers. It's definitely not a walking trail for a casual stroll; it's strenuous but very fun. I felt I was in great cardio shape while hiking but my hips and knees definitely made it harder. Stairs made of stones, stairs made of wood, and the last bit leading to the lookout is all hopping over rocks and even pulling yourself up. Bring your hiking poles and it'll definitely help! $5 for parking without a Discovery pass.

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    Mount Pilchuck State Park
    Mount Pilchuck State Park
    Mount Pilchuck State Park

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    Blanca Lake

    Blanca Lake

    4.6(38 reviews)
    15.8 mi

    Came here on a Friday afternoon around 3:30PM, long gravel road to the trailhead, quite a few cars…read moreparked there too. Bathroom and map at the trailhead. Hike is pretty steep, constantly uphill for about 3 miles, all in the trees though. Mosquitoes around, bug spray is good. After 3 miles, trail goes down pretty steeply, lake was really pretty, not very cold water! Sat there for a bit to enjoy the water and view, really calming. Didn't see very many people on the trail, had the lake to ourselves. Bad part of the hike is the need to go back uphill after the lake, but it's not too bad. Took 2 hours to get to the lake, 2 hours back, was a bit dark and got a bit cold towards the end of the hike. Hiking poles definitely helped!

    It is 11.5 miles, you have to park your car 2 miles before the trail starts which adds up total or…read more4 extra miles. It would be good idea to go on sunny day and start hike early. We went around 8:00am got at lake around 11:30am, only few small breaks and took 3 hours to come back. When we reached the lake it was mesmerizing. Thinks to remember: 1.Take a lot of water and snacks with you. It is hard hike so stay hydrated. 2. Bug spray if needed we had it but did not use it because bugs were not too bad. 3. Go early to beat the heat and this hike requires $5 day use fee and Northwest forest pass. 4. Since it's not 7.5 miles be ready to do extra 4 miles. Total of 11.5miles This hike was hardest hike for us so far but the view worth the hike. I would highly recommend to go there at lest once in life time. The view is breathtaking!!! Good luck, you will love it.!!

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    Blanca Lake
    Blanca Lake
    Blanca Lake

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    Big Four Ice Caves - parks - Updated May 2026

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