Ice Caves

Adventure Day

January 18, 2014 was yet another great day for adventure. Two lovely ladies, Elaine and Taylor, had been staying at my house the past week. Seattle was their first stop on a long road-trip journey under the code name Local Wanderer. They decided it would be best if they could see the infamous Big Four Ice Caves for themselves. Five of us fit nicely into my roommate Luke's car. Friend and fellow photographer Aj Ragasa also joined the crew for this outing.

Getting out of the city and into the country was relieving. The road twisted and turned as we blazed along stretches of forest. A light fog helped paint the picture of the sun beaming pure gold in our direction. Things were bound to become more glorious as the day went on.

What are these photos about?

CHeers

As with the first few stops, we could not help ourselves but to pull over at the sight of a river forging its way through the hills. A cold Rainier soft drink was certainly called for! Except for Elaine, she's gluten free so she had to sip wine in one of those small bottles.

The area was calm, only the sounds of a few birds and the river. The woods surrounding a few vacant cabins along with a low laying fog provided the perfect amount of creepiness to the scene. We drank and enjoyed each other's company for a moment.

What are these photos about?

THE CAVES

A short hike from the parking lot lead us straight to the ice caves. Avalanche warning signs were prominent as the caves came into view. The glacial purity of the ice shows off a bluish hue. Frozen textures and patterns accompany the bluish white formations. Structures like these always generate a bit of mystery in my mind. I read later that thecaves are formed after avalanche deposits settle. Water moving under the snow and warm winds hollow out the areas.

What are these photos about?

DANGER: DO NOT ENTER

The caves themselves are very unpredictable and unstable. They should never be entered because the ice can crumble at any moment leaving one trapped or killed instantly. Despite the grave danger and prominent warnings, Luke and I decided to go inside. As stupid of a decision it may have been the experience inside the cave was almost sacred. It felt like entering a secret chamber on a quest for the lost ark. For a few minutes I was Indiana Jones snatching treasures in the form of photos...thinking the whole time;

my mom is going to be furious when she finds out.