Great Escape: The Mt. St. Helens Ape Caves

Whether you buy into the legend or not, Sasquatch or Bigfoot is a famous local mystery. Although the story is a good one, you won’t find them at the Ape Caves of Mt. St. Helens.  This geological site, located at the south side of Mt. St. Helens, is known to be the longest lava tube in the U.S. and measures more than 2 miles in length.

Maybe not for the claustrophobic or youngest members of your family, the upper cave is the full lava tube and takes more than two hours to hike through. This unique underground cave formation will bring you up against 27 boulder piles and an 8-foot lava wall. The cave is dark and cold, making the need for warm clothing and head lamps a must, even in the summer. For those interested in a bit of less strenuous sightseeing, the lower cave is three-quarter miles long and considered an “easy” trek.

In the summer, a park naturalist will be available in the lower cave.  Parking passes and Monument Pass can be purchased at the Johnston Ridge Observatory.