Location
While this is a popular location to snowshoe in wintertime, there is high risk in winter from avalanches off the mountain that feeds these caves. Once off the road and on the true trail, keep to the main trail, and do not venture onto the snowfields at the end of the route.
Big Four Ice Caves Snowshoe
North Cascades
Length
7.0 miles, roundtrip
Elevation
Gain: 250 ft.
Highest Point: 1800 ft.
Rating
Parking Pass/Entry Fee
Northwest Forest Pass
Trailhead Inaccessible: The Mountain Loop Highway is closed to vehicles between Deer Creek and Bedal Creek. This annual winter closure will be lifted in the spring.
Trail closed: The bridge over the Stillaguamish River has been removed for repairs rendering the Big Four Ice Caves inaccessible
Never go into or climb on top of the Ice Caves
Big Four Ice Caves Snowshoe
Map & Directions
Trailhead
Open map in new windowGetting There
From I-5 in Everett, take exit 194 for Snohomish/Wenatchee, then take exit 204 for Lake Stevens. Follow this road for 2 miles, then turn left onto Hwy 9/9N Granite Falls. Proceed for 1.5 miles, turn right onto E 92/Granite Falls. In 6 miles, come to a roundabout that has a log sign for Granite Falls. Take the following roundabout to Quarry Road and stay on it through two more roundabouts.
Come to a stop sign and turn left onto the Mountain Loop Highway. Drive to the Deer Creek Pass gate, which closes in the winter. Park considerately, so other folks can enjoy this area, and walk down the road to begin your hike.
Parking Pass/Entry Fee
Northwest Forest Pass
Trailhead Inaccessible: The Mountain Loop Highway is closed to vehicles between Deer Creek and Bedal Creek. This annual winter closure will be lifted in the spring.
Trail closed: The bridge over the Stillaguamish River has been removed for repairs rendering the Big Four Ice Caves inaccessible
Never go into or climb on top of the Ice Caves
