Explore Ape Cave, Washington

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Ape Cave allows you to explore the furthest reaches of a lava tube formed from an eruption of Mount St. Helens 1,900 years ago. Its passageway is the longest continuous lava tube in the continental United States, at 13,042 feet (3,975 m). Ape Cave is a popular hiking destination with beautiful views of the Mount St. Helens lahar region. The lava tube formed when the surface of a lava flow cooled and hardened, but the molten lava beneath the surface continued to flow. The cave opening can be entered with natural light, but for extended exploration, bring three sources of light, sturdy shoes and warm clothing, as the cave averages 42 degrees Fahrenheit. Two different routes of exploration exist inside the cave and an above-ground trail (Ape Cave #239) connects the main and upper entrances. The lower cave is a relatively easy 0.75 mile hike that takes 1 hour round trip. The challenging upper cave is 1.5 miles long, requires climbing over large piles of rocks and takes 2.5 to 3 hours. Lantern rentals, travel directions, and Forest Interpreter talks are available daily during the summer season. Ape's Headquarters is located by Ape Cave on Forest Road 8303. The cave was discovered in 1947 by Lawrence Johnson, a logger, when his truck fell into a sinkhole which opened into the cave. A Boy Scout troop under the leadership of Harry Reese performed the first exploration in 1950. They named the cave for their sponsor, the St. Helens Apes, a local group made up of mostly foresters.

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