A stunning discovery has been made at Mount Rainier National Park in Washington state. A photographer, Mathew Nichols, stumbled upon a rare rainbow illuminating the inside of an ice cave. The cold, crystallized colors are caused by naturally occurring algae and light refraction. The ice thickness determines the spread of the colors.
Nichols said he was hiking in the park when he saw the cave. He decided to explore it and was amazed by what he saw. “I could not believe my eyes,” he said. “I went up to Mt Rainier specifically to explore the ice caves and never imagined they would be SO COLORFUL.”
The National Park Service has warned visitors not to enter the ice caves. They are unstable and can collapse at any time. Nichols said he was aware of the risks, but he felt it was worth it to see the cave. “I knew what I was experiencing was just… an amazing natural phenomenon,” he said.
The rainbow cave is a rare and beautiful sight. It is a reminder of the power and beauty of nature. However, it is also a reminder of the dangers of exploring ice caves. Visitors should always be aware of the risks before entering any cave.
Here are some additional details about the rainbow cave:
- The cave is located in the Paradise area of Mount Rainier National Park.
- The cave is about 100 feet long and 20 feet wide.
- The ice in the cave is about 10 feet thick.
- The cave is illuminated by naturally occurring algae.
- The algae creates a rainbow effect when it is hit by sunlight.
- The cave is unstable and can collapse at any time.
- Visitors should not enter the cave.
If you are planning a visit to Mount Rainier National Park, be sure to check out the rainbow cave. It is a truly amazing sight. However, be sure to stay safe and do not enter the cave.
Video : mathewnichols_photographer
