I went to the Ice caves on labor day, and it couldn't have been a more beautiful day. The trail is now open since the accident. The trail was perfect. The ice caves were much smaller than I had expected, and there was a small avalanche in the back of the caves over to the right when you are facing them. (the ones you have to walk over to) Please be careful if you go here, the caves are cracking and are ready to fall. Take care.

Driving past the trailhead on the Mountain LoopHighway today, I noticed the parking lot is closed.Perhaps this is due to the fatality this past weekend. I recommend calling the Verlot Rangers to see if it's open. If you go there, enjoy the caves from the outside.These caves collapse regularly and there have beenmany accidents and some fatalities over the years. Suggested alternative hike: Barlow Point trail #709. This trail is1.2 miles long, a similar distance. But it climbs800' and gets moderately steep. Great views, however, and it's fairly short. To get there: drive past theIce Caves trail all the way up the Mt. Loop Hwyto Barlow Pass (where it changes to a gravel road).There is a large parking lot on the left side,and the trailhead is next to the parking lot. Many peoplehiking to Monte Cristo also park here. Enjoy!

Ice caves are now starting to form! Ice cool breeze blowing out of the caves was really refreshing. Don't miss the far west end where you can walk up to the base of a waterfall - without traveling over the treacherous snow.

Trail has muddy sections after river crossing due to ongoing trail work. No snow caves yet but lots of waterfalls.

The trail to the ice caves is in great shape, but the ice caves haven't melted out yet. The huge avalanche fans are there, and worth a visit, though. The waterfalls are in prime condition. [Online editors note: Huge avalanche fans' I didn't know avalanches wereso popular.]