Sandy Glacier Caves (Snow Dragon)

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:

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.

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.

Retrace your steps back to the car.