Description
The caves got there name from the group of people who first explored them. They were members of a local outdoors club, "The Apes." Ape Cave is a long, large cave (known as a lava tube) naturally carved into the rock by lava and water through thousands of years. These deep, pitch-black tunnels are an eerie and great experience. From the main entrance, the cave heads in two directions. The Lower Passage is easier and shorter. It goes about 0.7 mile past a number of formations, including a Lava Ball and mudflow floor. The Upper Passage is 1.3 miles long with a 1.3-mile trail above ground that returns to the trailhead. The Upper Passage is more challenging, with segments that climb over rock piles and a small lava ledge. Year-round temperature is a steady 42 degrees, so bring a jacket. The deepness of the caves requires strong flashlights or large gas lanterns. Parts of the upper passage are rocky, so sturdy shoes and pants are also recommended.
| Type |
Season |
Difficulty |
Rating |
Length |
Gain |
Latitude |
Longitude |
| Cave |
Year-round |
2 / 5 |
10 / 10 |
2.5 mi |
0 ft |
46.108948 ° N |
122.211448 ° W |
People
Hikers
Cost
A federal Northwest Forest Pass is required to park here
Contact Information:
Mt. St. Helens National Volcanic Monument
Monument Headquarters
42218 NE Yale Bridge Road
Amboy, Wa 98601
Tel: 360.449.7800
TTY: 360.891.5003
http://www.fs.fed.us/gpnf
Maps
Green Trails: #364 Mount St Helens
USGS: Mount Mitchell
Directions
From Vancouver, drive north on I-5 to Highway 503, exit 21. Drive east 35 miles to Forest Service Road 83. Turn left and drive 2 miles to Forest Service Road 8303. Turn left and drive 1.5 miles to the trailhead on the right.