Big Four Ice Caves

The Big Four Ice Caves

The Big Four Ice Caves form by water erosion in a large bank of avalanche snow and ice that accumulates at the base of Big Four Mountain. Melting snow higher on the mountain cascades down the cliffs as several waterfalls and erodes into the large accumulation of snow and ice at the bottom.

The Big Four Ice Caves are rather dangerous due to the fact the ice is constantly melting and collapsing. Also, rockfall is a real danger back at the waterfalls. Rocks come down the waterfalls and ricochet into the cave tunnels, like bowling balls.

The caves are rather cold and wet. Water drips off the ceiling, and you will get soaking wet very quickly. There are also numerous water spouts that pour through holes in the ceiling. Hypothermia is a real danger, dress warmly and use waterproof rain gear.