Drove back south today to visit the south end of Mount St Helens.
Went directly to Ape Cave on the south end of the park. Ape Cave is actually a 2000-year-old lava chute formed during an eruption at that time. It was discovered in the late 1940’s by a farmer who nearly drove his tractor into the cave entrance. A group of boy scouts eventually dropped down into the cave to explore and document. They would soon be leading trips down into the cave and promote preservation.
Not having ever caved before, and being totally unprepared, I was only able to explore about 100 feet into the cave. Really just wanted to see what it was like and to see how dark it really was. I am here to report that this is the definition of dark.
Worked my way back out to the entrance and found the return trail that leads to the upper entrance to the cave. Followed that along for a little over a mile through pine forest and old old lava fields. It was very interesting to watch the abrupt change over from one ecosystem to the next. As I got closer to the top, there were several fields of open lava vents and small tunnels. A very unique landscape.
As I progressed along and reached one of the larger lave fields, I noticed that I had lost the trail. Turned around to find a landmark and saw that it was well posted and in view. Did a 180 degree turn and found no other signs of the trail. Then I heard voices. Turned to see that a couple was emerging from underground. I had walked right past the upper entrance.
Here is the oddest thing. Stopped to talk to these folks and worked our way through the obvious first time meeting questions. How was the cave, where are you from, what are you doing in this part of the country? The conversation eventually worked its way to the point where we discovered a common string. A number of years ago, they lived in Farmington Hills, MI on my old street. Just a couple of short blocks where we lived for 13 years. Amazing.
