Posted in Washington Natural Wonders March 29, 2023 by

These Ice Caves In Washington Are A Stunning Natural Wonder

There’s no shortage of caves in Washington State. Adventurers are well aware of places like Ape Caves and Big Four Ice Caves. However, there are not many quite like the Guler Ice Caves. Located in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, these unique lava tubes are filled with incredible ice formations that would make even Elsa and Anna envious. The ice is present year-round, making the Guler Ice Caves a fun destination no matter what time of the year it is. These ice caves in WA are a stunning natural wonder. If you’ve ever wondered “are there caves in Washington?”, then this is one adventure that definitely belongs on your bucket list!

The 650-foot-long Guler Ice Cave is just a small piece of an extensive network of caves in the Indian Heaven Volcanic Field. This area lies between Mount Adams and Mount Saint Helens.
Hawk In Winter
The most recent eruption in this area, around 9,000 years ago, produced a large lava field just west of these lava tubes.
To access these ice caves in Washington, you'll descend a 20-foot staircase into the dark.
Hawk In Winter
As you trek down, you'll notice a dramatic temperature drop from the top to the bottom. Down here, it's around a brisk 32 degrees all year long! The stairs leading down to the caves may be icy, too, so use caution.
Once you've reached the cave, you'll notice that the cave floor is covered in a thin layer of ice.
Hawk In Winter
Inside, the cave measures about 650 feet long and is divided into four different sections that are separated by collapsed ceilings.
As soon as you enter the Guler Ice Caves, you'll notice that you're surrounded by intricate, crystal-clear stalactites and stalagmites.
Hawk In Winter
During the winter, these ice structures are formed from dripping water that freezes. The formations stay preserved since the eastern end of the cave serves as a trap to keep in heavy, cold air. If you're lucky, you may even see a phenomenon known as the "Crystal Grotto" - a natural effect (caused by bacteria and fungi, of all things) where the caves seem to sparkle and shimmer.
You can view the ice formations at Guler Ice Caves any time of the year.
Hawk In Winter
Through the early summer, the Guler Ice Caves contain impressive ice features like frozen stalactites and stalagmites. You'll see the most ice if you visit in April and May. As the season warms, the cave loses some of its ice, but remains fun to explore throughout the year, especially during those dog days of summer!
The Guler Ice Caves also have a notable place in Washington history.
Bryce Jenks
The caves once served as a major ice supplier in the state. Early Washington pioneers also used the caves as a natural refrigerator, storing huckleberries and other perishables. Some of the ice from the Guler Ice Caves was even used to chill drinks in local taverns! These ice caves in Washington are basically nature's wine cellar.
The Guler Ice Caves are a spectacular, only-in-Washington experience that all Evergreen State residents should experience.
Hawk In Winter
While planning your trip to these incredible ice caves in Washington State, be sure to come prepared. Don't forget to bring a high-powered flashlight, good hiking boots, and warm layers, since the caves are generally below freezing. Also, the ceiling can be low at times, so be extra careful if you don't wear a helmet. Safety first!

Check out this great footage from inside the Guler Ice Caves, courtesy of YouTube user UncagetheSoul:

What do you think? Would you explore these ice caves in WA? There are all kinds of fascinating caves in Washington State… we even have a cheese cave! It’s kind of incredible, and we can’t guarantee it won’t have you craving a grilled cheese sandwich.

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Address: Trout Lake, WA 98650, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center

Ice Caves In WA

February 02, 2021
Sarah

Are there any other caves in Washington State?

If visiting the ice caves in Washington ignited your curiosity for underground exploration, then you need to check out Ape Caves next. The Ape Caves are one of the most fascinating places to explore in Washington. The caves were formed over 2,000 years ago when Mount St. Helens erupted and lava poured down the southern flank of the volcano. At a little over two miles long, they’re known as the longest lava tubes in the lower 48 states. You'll find these caves in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, on the south side of Mount St. Helens. The caves feature an upper and a lower level, both of which offer an invigorating and intriguing hike through the underground.

What's a scenic hike in Washington?

One of the best things about living in Washington is the abundance of outdoor attractions. From gorgeous waterfalls to craggy coastlines and hardwood forests, the Evergreen State is nothing if not naturally beautiful. The Shi Shi Beach Trail is one of our favorites; it's basically the answer to the age-old conundrum of having to decide between going to the beach or taking a hike. (In Washington, you can have both, thank you very much!) For more scenic hiking spots, we deemed these Washington trails to be the most beautiful in the entire world.

What kind of outdoor recreation is popular in Washington?

Washington is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. There's amazing hiking, epic kayaking, picturesque camping, beautiful beaches, and utterly breathtaking parks. The Evergreen State is an incredible place to live and will ignite a love for nature in everyone who spends time here.