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Step beneath the forest floor and discover one of the most unique adventures in the Mount St. Helens region. Ape Cave is a massive lava tube formed by ancient volcanic flows on the south side of Mount St. Helens, and at about 2.5 miles long, it is considered the third longest lava tube in North America. This unforgettable stop blends geology, adventure, and forest scenery into one of the area’s most memorable outdoor experiences.

The experience begins with a short paved path from the parking area to the cave entrance, where a stairway drops into a cool, dark underground world. From there, visitors can choose between two very different routes. The Lower Cave is the easier option, offering a relatively gentle out-and-back walk that is well suited for families and casual explorers. The Upper Cave is more challenging, with rocky footing, lava-formed obstacles, an 8-foot lava fall, and an exit ladder that brings you back to the surface for a forest hike to return to the main entrance.

Ape Cave is more than a hike. It is a chance to experience Mount St. Helens from the inside out. The cave stays around 42 degrees year-round, making it a refreshing summer adventure but one that requires preparation in every season. Visitors should bring warm layers and at least two reliable light sources per person, since there is no lighting inside the cave and cell phone flashlights are not considered adequate.

To help protect this fragile volcanic environment, visitors should avoid touching the cave walls or ceiling, and pets, smoking, camping, alcohol, and food or drinks other than water are not allowed inside. During the open season, timed entry reservations are required per vehicle, and parking also requires a Northwest Forest Pass, Interagency Pass, or day pass.

Whether you are looking for a family-friendly lava tube walk or a more adventurous underground scramble, Ape Cave offers a one-of-a-kind way to explore the volcanic story of Mount St. Helens. It is one of those places that feels equal parts trail, cave, and natural wonder.

Trail details: Ape Cave Trail #239, near Cougar, Washington. Main trailhead coordinates: 46.108645, -122.210387. The cave is reached via Forest Road 8303, roughly 9 miles east of Cougar.

Call to action: Add Ape Cave to your Mount St. Helens itinerary and experience one of the most unusual hikes in Washington, where volcanic history comes to life beneath your feet.

Current seasonal note: As of April 8, 2026, Ape Cave is in its winter closure period. The Forest Service page lists the site as seasonally closed from November 1 to May 17, while Recreation.gov currently says the 2026 summer season reopens on Friday, May 22 and requires timed tickets.

A Window into Volcanic Renewal

Location: Coldwater Lake Picnic & Boating Area, Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, WA
Distance: Approx. 0.5 – 1.2 miles round-trip (depending on route)
Elevation Gain: 50 feet total
Highest Elevation: 3,900 feet
Trail Type: Out-and-back and short loops (boardwalk/paved)
Difficulty: Very Easy – ideal for all ages and ability levels
Open Season: Year-round (weather and road conditions permitting)
Family-Friendly: Absolutely – stroller-friendly, safe for young kids
ADA Accessible: Yes – boardwalk and paved sections
Pets: Not allowed
Pass Required: $5 per vehicle or valid Recreation Pass

Trail Overview

This charming boardwalk trail runs along the shores of Coldwater Lake—the direct result of Mount St. Helens' 1980 eruption, which dammed Coldwater Creek and carved out the lake in its path. Interpretive displays along the route vividly recount that transformation, guiding hikers through both geologic history and ecological resurgence.

Along the path, you might spot intriguing features like beaver-chewed trees, small trout splashing on the water's surface, and marshy wildlife activity to observe and enjoy.

A floating deck or footbridge offers serene lake views—especially magical on calm, sunny days when the surrounding hills reflect perfectly in the water.

Visitor Info & Amenities

Located right by the Coldwater Lake Recreation Area, the trailhead offers:

• ADA-accessible boardwalk
• Picnic tables, restrooms, drinking water, and parking
• Boat launch and accommodations for non-motorized boating and light recreation near the lake
• No pets off-leash, no fishing or swimming allowed along the trail; all rules are in place to preserve this sensitive area

There’s no entry fee required specifically for the trail, though day-use fees may apply for the broader area (e.g., $5/vehicle or valid Recreation Pass)

Why You’ll Love It

• Educational & Immersive: Learn firsthand how Mount St. Helens shaped the landscape—and how life rebounded.
• Accessible to All: Easy, paved paths and gentle terrain mean nearly anyone can enjoy this trail.
• Short & Rewarding: A quick yet deeply satisfying hike—perfect for families, short stops, or combining with other nearby trails like the Lakes Trail.

Ideal for a quick picnic, family adventure, or a peaceful reflective stroll, the Birth of a Lake Trail tells a powerful story of destruction, transformation, and resilience. Want a shorter tagline or a version tailored for prints or brochure use? Just say the word!

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The Cedar Creek Grist Mill – Woodland, Washington

Nestled in the forested hills east of Woodland, The Cedar Creek Grist Mill is a beautifully preserved piece of Pacific Northwest history. Built in the late 1800s, this working museum gives visitors a rare look inside a fully functional, water-powered grist mill — one of the only ones of its kind still operating in Washington today.

Visitors are welcomed by friendly volunteers who provide a “Working Tour” of the mill in action. Inside, you’ll see huge pulleys and belts whirring above and below as water power turns the grinding stones that produce flour, cornmeal, and even fresh apple cider. Guests often receive free samples to take home — a true taste of history.

No gas or electricity is used — the mill runs entirely on the natural flow of Cedar Creek. Every volunteer here is passionate about keeping the mill’s story alive and sharing how this 19th-century technology still works today.

Set against a steep, rocky slope at the bottom of Cedar Creek Gorge, the mill is also a breathtaking scenic landmark. It remains the only grist mill in Washington that has maintained its original structural integrity, still mills with stones, and is powered solely by water. Beside it stands a covered bridge, built in 1994, which adds to the site’s charm and continues to draw visitors from across the country.

Seasonal and Annual Events

The Cedar Creek Grist Mill hosts a variety of seasonal events throughout the year, celebrating heritage, community, and the joy of handmade food.
Each event features live milling demonstrations and free samples prepared on-site by volunteers. Popular events include:

• • Bread Day – Freshly baked breads made from flour milled on-site. May 3o, 2026

• • Strawberry Shortcake Day – Enjoy homemade shortcake topped with sweet local strawberries. June 27, 2026

• • Blueberry Pancake Day – Watch flour being milled and enjoy delicious pancakes made right at the mill. July 25, 2026

• • Treat Day – A fun day filled with baked goodies and sweet surprises. August 29, 2026

• • Cornbread Day – See cornmeal ground by waterpower and sample warm, fresh cornbread. September 26, 2026

• • Apple Cider Pressing Day – The most popular event of the year! Visitors can help press apples into fresh,
    crisp cider using the mill’s traditional machinery. October 31, 2026

Each celebration showcases the mill’s living history and brings the community together in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.

A Living Piece of History

The Cedar Creek Grist Mill is more than just a historic landmark — it’s a living museum, lovingly maintained by dedicated volunteers. Every spin of the wheel and every grain of flour tells a story of craftsmanship, ingenuity, and preservation. Whether you visit for the history, the beauty of the gorge, or one of the mill’s famous events, the Cedar Creek Grist Mill offers an unforgettable experience for all ages.

Yearly Events

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