Spirit Lake Memorial Highway
Ape Cave, WA

Ape Cave is a long lava tube formed during a massive lava flow. It is the longest lava tube cave on the American continents, with many features that make it a fun place to spend the day. There are two sections, upper and lower caves, and the upper caves have been untouched by mudflows or much running water. The lava walls are rough and feel like coral in places. In some places, the molten rock was replaced by very hot volcanic gasses, which glazed and melted the rock walls of the cave. In the upper cave, the blue-black glazing on miniature stalactites is an example of this process.

An interpretive center on top of the cave offers more information about its formation, discovery, and interesting name, as well as detailed maps. The cave is chilly and wet, so dress accordingly. The only light available in the cave is the light you bring, so be sure to carry a flashlight. The natural light from the entrance skylights only lasts a couple of feet.