Ape Cave

Explore an underground lava tube trail created by the 1980 Mount Saint Helens eruption.

Ape Cave is located in Washington State at the base of Mt. St. Helens. Essentially, you are hiking under part of the mountain (dormant volcano) in an old lava tube that was left after the eruption in 1980. The 2.8-mile round trip hike includes many rocks and boulders inside a pitch-black tunnel, making it a unique challenge for experienced hikers. Parking costs $5 per vehicle, and it is a short walk from there to the cave entrance.

The old lava tube is wide and it is highly recommended to bring some hiking buddies with you. Please note that timed ticketing is in place for the busy summer season, so guests must make reservations in advance. Be careful if you come in the winter, it can get wet causing smooth surfaces to become slippery. Along the path, hikers will encounter large piles of rocks and boulders. There are plenty of flat surfaces that were created when the lava flowed as well.

Hikers are advised to bring flashlights with them. Within the last ½ mile, hikers will start to see patches of light from the uneven ground above. At the end of the trail, hikers can walk back amidst a green forest affected by the 1980 eruption. The small creeks may look muddy from afar, but upon closer inspection, they are actually gray and colorless, showing the environmental effects of the volcanic eruption. Outdoor enthusiasts will certainly enjoy this place, so don't hesitate to visit the next time you're heading to Mount Saint Helens.