VERLOT, Wash. — A small avalanche at the Big Four Ice Caves near Granite Falls ten days ago is a reminder that it’s still avalanche season.
The ice caves have been closed since last July, when two people were killed by falling ice.
The caves usually open in mid-May and coincides with the opening of North Mountain Loop Highway, which opened last Friday, a bit earlier than normal.
All indications are that the caves will open this spring as normal, but the U.S. Forest Service hasn't made any official announcements about whether the hiking trail is open.
Video shot by a KIRO 7 viewer on his cellphone last week shows falling ice and underscores the danger of the area even before there's any significant ice melt and cave formation, when conditions can be unstable and dangerous.
Four people have died at the Big Four Caves since 1998.
Last July, a Lynnwood man and his sister were killed in a collapse. Others had to run back down the trail then drive to the Verlot Ranger Station about 15 miles from the caves, to find a phone and call 911.
The deaths brought up the idea of putting a hard-wired phone line somewhere closer to the trail.
But according to the Herald, there hasn't been any significant advancements on that plan.
The Forest Service has reportedly increased warning signs since last July, and is considering rerouting the end of the trail closest to the caves to keep hikers further away from danger.
As things warm up and hikers consider going out to the Big Four area, people should remember to keep their distance.
Cox Media Group
