Nature’s frozen ice caves north of Vernal Utah

Photo: Utah Department of Natural Resources Utah Geological Survey

UTAH—The Big and Little Brush Creek Caves (BBCC and LBCC) are located approximately 17 miles north of Vernal, Utah, high on the south slope of the Uinta Mountains.

These unique caves, spaced nearly 5 miles apart, offer a captivating spectacle for nature enthusiasts. Rather than stalagmites and stalactites, these caves are adorned with breathtaking ice crystals and ever-changing formations that vary with the seasons and year-to-year climate patterns.

The two caves are at the base of a dynamic but frequently arid stream channel within the Madison Limestone. BBCC boasts an impressive ice column that may endure through summer, while LBCC showcases seasonal ice formations. In winter, accessing LBCC is easier due to its proximity to the plowed U.S. Route 191.

“Big and Little Brush Creek Caves display spectacular ice crystals and formations that vary seasonally and from year to year,” said Mark Milligan, P.G., senior geologist, manager—geologic information and outreach program, and legislative liaison for the Utah Department of Natural Resources. “Furthermore, in addition to their high elevations, a combination of factors allow the caves to hold ice into or through the summer. For example the opening of Big Brush Creek Cave lies in a heavily shaded north facing “cold trap” at the bottom of a dead-end canyon, where cold, dense air from higher up the mountain settles and collects.”

WARNING: While both caves are on public lands in the Ashley National Forest and currently open to the public, both abound with HAZARDS, including vertical drop-offs and areas with bad air (high carbon dioxide levels). Furthermore, rain and/or spring snowmelt can cause unexpected flooding.