Cats and Trails and Garden Tales
Musings on cats, travel, gardens and life
Now that was a hike! Big 4 Ice Caves
Never was there such a payoff for such a short hike, 2.2 miles round trip!
A drive north on the Mountain Loop Highway brought us to Big 4 Mountain, known mostly for its (dangerous) ice caves. I remember hiking to those caves once on a very, rainy day, sometime in the last century, but totally missing the mountain above shrouded in clouds.
Not this time; it was clear and sunny, a perfect day for a hike.
We first stopped for a look at the mountain, at the site of a resort that stood here back in the 1930’s. Only part of the old fireplace remained standing.
We made our way to the trailhead, warned not to venture near or into the caves, which we did not intend to do.
The trail took us across the Stillaguamish River and into the forest.
It wasn’t long before the face of the mountain was in full view, and even these seasoned hikers were a bit awestruck.
We stopped at the end of the trail not venturing further out, though some did.
Look closely and you can see tiny people. The ice caves were still buried under the snow, not usually visible until August.
If you’re ever in the neighborhood (that would be in the great state of Washington,) I highly recommend you swing by Big 4 to see it for yourself. Even without the ice caves visible, the mountain is a sight to behold.
~ Susanne
Cats and Trails and Garden Tales 
Such a beautiful place! ❤️
It truly is! Thanks, John.
You’re welcome. ☺️
The temptation to go forward and touch the ice would be overwhelming. Even with the signs warning of the dangers, I have no doubt many people still get into difficulties in those caves. Curiosity is sometimes lethal!
Best wishes, Pete.
I remember going right up to the mouth of the caves when we were there long ago, but not going in. People have died inside when the caves collapsed on them. At least there was no temptation this time as the caves weren’t exposed yet.
Beautiful hike! Maybe Benji needs a cat carrier backpack to go along and fulfill his desire to get out and about!
Thank you! Unfortunately, Benji is not that agreeable to carriers and car rides! But he manages to explore our backyard, and for now that will have to do. 😺😺
I’ve never even heard of this spot before and I used to hike in the Cascades! Looks beautiful though.
This is further north near Granite Falls. It turned out to be a perfect hike, short enough for us, with tremendous views!
What a fantastic hike and not too long at all! Somehow my research didn’t throw this up as an option for our WA trip 😦
I’m not surprised. There are so many mountains and hikes in Washington, it’s hard to pick and choose which ones to see and do. And there are dozens that are more famous. I liked this one for being off the grid, with awesome views.