The Ape Caves do not contain apes nor, technically speaking, are they caves. Instead they are a two mile long lava tube formed when Mt. St. Helens erupted about 2000 years ago; they are also a local place where a person can get their fill of under-the-ground, Indiana-Jones-style adventure. Grabing a flashlight, warm clothing, and extra batteries, even the most novice person can experience caving here.
The lava tube is divided into two parts: The upper and lower Ape Caves. The lower cave is a very easy "there and back" stroll that allows the visitor to view the unique geology of a lava tube. The upper caves are about a mile and a half long one-way hike. There are several areas where large boulders and rubble (where parts of the roof collapsed in ancient times) must be climbed over. Allow at least two and a half hours for the upper cave.
To get to the Ape Caves, drive I-5 north from Portland until exit 21 at Woodland. Travel east on Highway 503 and USFS Road 90, approximately 35.7 miles to junction of USFS Roads 83 and 90. Turn north (left) onto USFS Road 83 and proceed another 2 miles to the junction of USFS Roads 83 and 8303. Turn west (left) onto USFS Road 8303 and proceed 1.2 miles to to parking lot of lower entrance to Ape Cave. The way is well marked and easy to reach. The dreaded NW Forest Pass is required and rangers do ticket at this site. The caves average 42 degrees. Three sources of light are recommended and a latern works best.
