Ape Caves & Volcano Viewpoint

on the trail

ape caves & lava tubes

The Ape Caves on the south side of Mount St. Helens are one of the longest basalt flow lava tubes in North America. There are 2 tubes. The lower tube is 1.5 miles round trip. The upper tube is 2.5 miles round trip with 360 feet of elevation gain to a high point of 2,450 ft.

volcano viewpoint trail

A new trail constructed in 2014 on the south side of Mount St. Helens takes you to a viewpoint for the lava flows, Ape Caves and Mount St. Helens. It's 1.6 miles round trip and 400 feet of elevation gain and a high point of 2,50 ft.

notes

• Bring strong headlamps or other light source for the lava tubes.  Lanterns can be rented at the Ape Caves Headquarters Center.
• When hiked together, these two trails total 4.1 miles and 760 feet of elevation gain.
• Consider combing with a hike to June Lake (2.6 miles, 450 feet).

• Suitable Activities: Day Hiking
• Seasons: May, June, July, August, September, October
• Weather: View weather forecast

• Difficulty: Easy
• Length: 2.6 mi
• Elevation Gain: 200 ft
• High Point: 2,475 ft

• Land Manager: Mount Saint Helens National Volcanic Monument
• Parking Permit Required: Northwest Forest Pass
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12