Forest Service closes Ice Caves and Big Four Picnic Area for tree removal
The Forest Service is closing the Ice Caves Trail and the Big Four Picnic Area for hazardous tree removal June 27-29. Several snags are identified as high risk for falling onto the trail and explosives will be used to topple them.
“These snags are rotten and falling by chain saw isn’t safe for our crews,” said Peter Forbes Darrington District Ranger. “For public safety during the removal process we are closing the surrounding area,” he said.
Tree removal and clean-up will keep the picnic area and trail closed until the project is finished. “We are making every effort to complete this work prior to the upcoming holiday week,” said Forbes.
The gates to the Big Four Picnic Area and the Ice Caves Trailhead will be closed. Walking around the gates, ignoring the closure signs and entering the area, you may be ticketed and fined,” Forbes said. The area includes the Ice Caves and Big Four parking lots and 300 feet from the trail.
The Ice Caves Trail is a heavily used, barrier-free trail on the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest suitable for people of all abilities, designated as a National Recreation Trail with a boardwalk, paved trail, benches and interpretative signs.
For more information about the project call Carol Gladsjo at 360-436-2316.