Hiking Ape Caves in Washington State

Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

Hiking Ape Caves near Mt. Saint Helens is a unique and thrilling experience that should not be missed by any adventure seeker. Located in the heart of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, the Ape Caves are a series of underground lava tubes that were formed thousands of years ago. These caves offer a unique and adventurous hiking experience that is not found anywhere else in the state.

The Ape Caves are divided into two sections: the Upper Ape Cave and the Lower Ape Cave. The Upper Ape Cave is the shorter of the two, measuring in at just over a mile long. It is a moderate hike that takes about an hour to complete. The Lower Ape Cave is much longer, stretching for over two miles. It is a more strenuous hike that takes about three hours to complete. Both of these hikes offer unique and exciting experiences that are perfect for hikers of all skill levels.

Looking closly you’ll see what looks like two track on the floor of the cave. These are dubbed “The Railroad Tracks” and were caused when lava dripped down from the ceiling as the cave was emptying of lava.

One of the most impressive things about the Ape Caves is the underground environment. The caves are dark and damp, and hikers are required to bring their own flashlights or headlamps to navigate through the tunnels. This creates a sense of adventure and mystery as you explore the underground world.

In addition to the natural beauty of the caves, there is also a rich history to be discovered. The Ape Caves were named after a group of Boy Scouts who discovered the caves in the 1950s. They dubbed themselves the “Mount St. Helens Apes” and the name stuck. Since then, the Ape Caves have become a popular destination for hikers and adventure seekers from all over the country.

Note the cool and unusual geological feature stuck in the cave. A huge lava boulder called ‘The Meatball’ sits perched over a passageway, where it got stuck as lava flowed through the tube.

Hiking Ape Caves in Washington State is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or just looking for a unique adventure, the Ape Caves have something for everyone. So grab your flashlight and head to the Gifford Pinchot National Forest for an underground adventure you won’t soon forget.

A note from the forest service:

“Help protect Ape Cave. Please do not touch cave walls or ceiling. Touching kills cave slime, a basis for the food chain of tiny creatures that live there. Help protect our bats and caves from White Nose Syndrome. Practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all that you bring with you.”