Sandy Glacier Caves (Snow Dragon)

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Sandy Glacier Caves (Snow Dragon) Canyoneering Canyoning Caving
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Difficulty:‌Ice Cave 2A IV R (v1a1 IV)
Raps:‌
Metric
Overall:8-10h ⟷10mi
Approach: ↑3000ft
Exit: ↓3000ft
Red Tape:‌
Shuttle:‌
Location:
Condition Reports:

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Weather:
Best season:
Jul-Sep (avg for this region)
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Welcome! Canyons in the Pacific Northwest can be different from those you might be used to. Be ready for unlinked bolts, retrievable traverse lines, and challenging aquatic environments. For more on local practices, and the best way to get started in the region, check out the WCC Safety page.
  • Unlinked Bolts - groups should be comfortable rigging unlinked bolts, either temporarily linking them for all but the last person, or using a passive redundancy method. Most importantly, if you find two bolts side by side that are unlinked, do not add webbing to them. Linking bolts designed to be unlinked will likely cause damage during seasonal floods.
  • Traverse Lines - many canyons are rigged to allow traverse line access to an exposed anchor station. This should be done using self-belay or team belay techniques. Do not leave fixed lines in the canyons.
  • Challenging Environments - the highly aquatic nature of PNW canyons can surprise many. Cold temperatures, slippery rocks, loud waterfalls, and strong currents all lead to unexpected problems. Do not underestimate the need for strong team work and technical proficiency. Belays are frequently not possible. Unattended gear will sink or float away. Sliding and jumping is the cause of most major injuries, so it's critical to effectively communicating water depth & submerged hazards.

Introduction[edit]

Oct 2019 - These caves may no longer exist.

Amazing mile long Ice Caves on the North West side of Mt Hood.

Ice caves can be EXTREMELY dangerous, especially during periods of snowmelt. If you decide to go, it is better to visit them in Fall or Early Winter. During Late Winter they will get covered by snow and access trails or even roads may be impassable.

Mt Hood weather can be a problem when accesing the caves, make sure to check in advance:

Approach[edit]

Hike up to McNeil Point Shelter and from there do the exposed off-trail traverse to the entrance of the caves, you should be able to see the cave entrances from afar. The traverse may require ice ax and crampons, make sure you are prepared for it.

Google Earth view of the route, original reference picture can be seen here.

  • XPICX

    • Descent[edit]

    There are three caves: Snow Dragon, Frozen Minotaur and Pure Imagination. Maps available from OHD Grotto. Experienced cavers may also consider rappeling down the Cerberous Moulin and do a through trip of Snow Dragon.

    Exit[edit]

    Retrace your steps back to the car.

    Red tape[edit]

    Beta sites[edit]

    Trip reports and media[edit]

    Background[edit]

    Credits

    Information provided by automated processes. KML map by (unknown). Main photo by (unknown). Authors are listed in chronological order.

    In all habitats live animals and plants that deserve respect, please minimize impact on the environment and observe the local ethics. Canyoneering, Canyoning, Caving and other activities described in this site are inherently dangerous. Reliance on the information contained on this site is solely at your own risk. There is no warranty as to accuracy, timeliness or completeness of the information provided on this site. The site administrators and all the contributing authors expressly disclaim any and all liability for any loss or injury caused, in whole or in part, by its actions, omissions, or negligence in procuring, compiling or providing information through this site, including without limitation, liability with respect to any use of the information contained herein. If you notice any omission or mistakes, please contribute your knowledge (more information).

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