Big Four Ice Caves Reopen a Year After Deadly Collapse

VERLOT, Wash. (AP) — The Big Four Ice Caves reopened Friday, nearly a year after a deadly collapse. Three people have died in cave collapses over the past five years.

KING-TV reports the trail was closed last July when a collapse killed 34-year-old Annalisa Santana of California and injured five other hikers.

The Forest Service has installed additional safety signage to help warn hikers of the dangers when they're most at risk. The signs also remind visitors to stay on the designated trail.

The Forest Service warns the Big Four Mountain and its ice caves are part of an ever-changing environment, where avalanches, rock, and ice falls are a potential hazard year round.