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
48.0651,
-121.5068
Map & Directions
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Length
- 7.0 miles, roundtrip
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Elevation Gain
- 250 feet
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Highest Point
- 1,800 feet
Never go into or climb on top of the Ice Caves.
Mountain Loop Highway is closed from Deer Creek (milepost 24) to Bedal Creek (milepost 36) for the winter.
Parking Pass/Entry Fee
Northwest Forest Pass
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. Keep to the main trail, and do not venture onto the snowfields at the end of the route.
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Hiking Big Four Ice Caves Snowshoe
Big Four Ice Caves Snowshoe
Map & Directions
Trailhead
Before You Go
Never go into or climb on top of the Ice Caves.
Mountain Loop Highway is closed from Deer Creek (milepost 24) to Bedal Creek (milepost 36) for the winter.
Make sure to park so you are not blocking the road or snow-plow turnaround, or you may be ticketed and/or towed.
Parking Pass/Entry Fee
Northwest Forest PassWTA Pro Tip: Save a copy of our directions before you leave! App-based driving directions aren't always accurate and data connections may be unreliable as you drive to the trailhead.
Getting 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. Make sure to park so you are not blocking the road or the snow-plow turnaround -- violators may be ticketed and/or towed.
