We returned to the Big Four Ice Caves in WA State to see how the place changed since the last time we hiked it 5 years ago. This time we went on a hot day, first week of September and we witnessed the portion collapse of the Ice Cave. This was a stark reminder that hiking into the caves is extremely dangerous as the snow is unstable and can collapse on top of you or underneath you. We do not recommend hiking inside of them no matter how compelling it may be. If you choose to do so, you're doing it at your own risk. There are plenty of warning signs and people have died inside these caves so please be careful, use your best judgement. Thousands of pounds of ice and snow can collapse at any moment, making for impressive views best observed from the safe distance.
Ice Caves Trail is such an easy, scenic 2.4 mile round-trip hike. Very effortless walk on a well maintained path. Enjoy the great view of Big Four Mountain and the waterfalls that tumble off of it, the lush forest and the Ice Caves that are actually really massive and very cool to see in person! Just don't enter the caves and stay on the path.