Big Four Ice Caves
North Cascades
As of May 11, 2026, Big Four Ice Caves are accessible with a few obstacles. The Mountain Loop Highway to the trailhead is clear and in good condition, with no snow reported. Parking at the trailhead was about 70% full on May 10th.
The trail itself has numerous downed trees requiring you to crawl over or under them. One report from April 18th mentions a broken footbridge that can be crossed with care. Snow was present starting at the bridge on April 1st, and microspikes were recommended, though not strictly necessary by May 10th.
The actual "big ice caves" are not currently visible, with one report from May 10th suggesting they may not be present or are obscured by snow/debris. Caution is advised regarding avalanche danger, with multiple reports observing avalanches from the surrounding peaks. The gate to the Big Four Ice Caves area was closed on April 1st, adding 4 miles to the hike.
generated from 46 reports
Conditions at a Glance
Trail
Obstacles on trail: Trees down across trail.
1 of 1
Snow
Trail snow-covered at times - gear and expertise recommended
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Road
Snow and ice on road
1 of 1
Bugs
No bugs
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Sources
This'll be a short trip report, but hopefully still helpful to anyone looking at this trail.(A) Getting There & Parking & TrailheadNo issues getting to the trailhead even with an older FWD car. No sno...
We set out originally to hike Lake 22 but both parking lots were packed, plus the road at least a quarter mile in either direction was full of cars. At the suggestion of the ranger at the Verlot Stati...
Parked at the gate and walked the road (clear and dry) to Big Four on this beautiful spring day. Some snow on the trail. Many trees down across the trail that you have to crawl over or under. At least...
This is such a beautiful hike with gorgeous views throughout. The trail is flat and easy. You can bring your little ones here during the summer for a nice picnic.The gate leading to the Big Four Ice C...
A quick, simple day out for my doggo and I. Of note - microspikes were more than enough, and handy in some icy sections. The first part of the road walk is completely dry. Snow is minimal, as seems to...
Parked at the Deer Creek road closure and walked the 2+ miles to the trailhead. About 18” of snow at the trailhead but packed down so spikes or snowshoes not needed. Counted 18 trees to go over and un...
The road is gated at Deer Creek but is dry all the way to Barlow Pass (according to another hiker). Our destination was Big Four. Toilets at the meadow parking lot were open and partially stocked. Boa...
Shout out to the Tesla blocking the road, the tools not capable of reading two signs with flags, and three idiots we watched skid just in time to a stop before crashing into the Mountain Loop gates✌️y...
Great hike. Not difficult and super scenic. The view of the rock face above the ice caves is stunning. Only 1 large cave remained and it had mostly collapsed. The trail was in fine condition, except f...
Easy family hike! Highly recommend.
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