Big Four Mountain

Big Four Mountain is a 6,181-foot summit in Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest with steep rock faces and year-round ice formations visible at its base. The mountain's topography creates distinct climate zones and varying vegetation patterns across its different slopes and elevations.

The mountain gained prominence in the early 1900s when lodging was built at its base to serve visitors. This initial development shaped the area's role as a destination for outdoor recreation throughout the century that followed.

The mountain draws thousands of visitors to its ice caves, which represent the lowest elevation glacier system in the continental United States.

A pedestrian bridge crosses the nearby river to connect parking areas with the trailheads and viewing areas. The best time to visit is during warmer months when trails are accessible and melting ice is more stable underfoot.

The mountain harbors natural ice caves formed through avalanche action that creates hollow spaces beneath permanent snow fields. These formations develop at unusually low elevation compared to other glacier systems in the region, drawing curious visitors year-round.

Location: Washington

Location: Snohomish County

Elevation above the sea: 1,884 m

GPS coordinates: 48.04181,-121.52371

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:07