Discover the Majestic Ape Canyon: A Natural Wonder in Washington
Explore the stunning Ape Canyon in Washington – a breathtaking ravine filled with scenic trails, rich wildlife, and stunning natural beauty.
Ape Canyon is a breathtaking ravine in Washington, where tourists can immerse themselves in stunning natural landscapes, hiking trails, and rich wildlife. Perfect for adventurers seeking a scenic escape.
A brief summary to Ape Canyon
- Washington, US
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities in the area.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes to navigate the trails safely.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure a safe hiking experience.
- Keep an eye out for local wildlife, but remember to observe from a distance.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start from Interstate 5 (I-5) in Washington. Take exit 49 for WA-504 E (Spirit Lake Memorial Highway). Continue on WA-504 E for approximately 32 miles. This road takes you through the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument area, offering beautiful views. At the junction, turn left onto Forest Road 83 (Ape Canyon Road) and follow it for about 6 miles. You will reach the Ape Canyon trailhead parking area, where you can park your vehicle.
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Public Transportation + Shuttle
If you are using public transportation, take a bus from Seattle to the town of Castle Rock, which is the closest bus station. From Castle Rock, you will need to arrange for a shuttle service or taxi to take you to the Mount St. Helens area. Many local tour companies offer shuttle services to popular destinations such as Ape Canyon. Make sure to check the schedules in advance and book your shuttle ahead of time. The shuttle ride will take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.
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Hiking
Once you arrive at the Ape Canyon trailhead parking area, you can start your hike. The Ape Canyon Trail begins at the parking lot and is well-marked. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and leads to the canyon. Make sure you are prepared with appropriate hiking gear, water, and snacks. The hike can take several hours depending on your pace, so plan accordingly.
Discover more about Ape Canyon
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Miners Car Interpretive Site
11.8 km
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Rashford spur historic logging camp
30.0 km
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Yale Bridge
32.3 km
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Interpretive Site: Layser Cave
35.8 km
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North Clark Historical Museum
40.5 km
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Pomeroy Farm
47.0 km
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Wind Mountain Trailhead
61.1 km
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Historical Marker
61.3 km
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The Oregon Pony
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Cascade Locks Historical Museum
61.5 km
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Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
61.6 km
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WA State Historical Marker #19 - Bridge of the Gods
61.7 km
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Thunder Island Brewing Co
61.8 km
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Bridge of the Gods
62.0 km
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Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail - Bridge of the Gods Trailhead
62.1 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Lava Canyon Trailhead
4.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lava Canyon Trailhead, a hiker's paradise featuring stunning landscapes and rich geological heritage in Washington.
Mt. Saint Helens
4.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and geological history of Mt. Saint Helens, an archaeological treasure in Washington State's stunning wilderness.
Mount St Helen's View Point
4.7 km
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Mt St Helens
5.2 km
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Windy Ridge Viewpoint
5.9 km
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June Lake Trailhead And Parking
7.0 km
Discover breathtaking views and diverse hiking trails at June Lake Trailhead in Cougar, Washington – a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument
7.1 km
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Sno-Park: Marble Mountain
8.1 km
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Harry's Ridge
9.4 km
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Johnston Ridge Observatory
11.1 km
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Mount Saint Helens National Volcanic Monument
11.1 km
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Ape Cave Interpretive Site
11.6 km
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Ape Cave
11.6 km
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Mount St Helens Viewpoint
11.7 km
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Loowit Viewpoint
11.8 km
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Essential places to dine
Cougar Bar & Grill
20.9 km
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Lone Fir Cafe
21.0 km
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Lone Fir Resort
21.1 km
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Big Bottom Roadhouse
39.9 km
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Tall Timber Restaurant Lounge
40.5 km
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Cliff Droppers
57.2 km
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Blue Spruce Saloon And Diner
57.6 km
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Cruiser’s Pizza
57.6 km
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Big River Grill
59.1 km
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River Rock
59.3 km
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Cascade Dining Room
59.3 km
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Brigham Fish Market
61.9 km
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Paradise Village Hotel & Restaurant
63.0 km
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Rainier BaseCamp Bar & Grill
63.1 km
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Wildberry Restaurant
63.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mt St Helens Forest Learning Center
24.0 km
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Fischer's Market
39.8 km
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Carson General Store
57.2 km
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Bloomsbury of Kanaka Creek Farm
59.1 km
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Wind Mountain Ranch
60.4 km
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Eastwind Drive-In
61.6 km
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Bike the Gorge
61.7 km
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Columbia Market
61.7 km
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Bridgeside
62.0 km
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Cedar Creek Alpacas
62.2 km
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Ashford Creek Pottery
62.9 km
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Whittaker Mountaineering
63.0 km
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Elbe Market Country Store
63.3 km
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Spruce Gifts and Provisions
64.0 km
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Longmire General Store & Mt. Rainier Natl. Park Gift Shop
66.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Backwoods Brewing Company
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Bungalow Bar & Grill
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Red Bluff Tap House
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Rock Creek Tavern
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Walking Man Brewing
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Cascade Locks / Portland East KOA Holiday
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Gorges Beer Co.
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Cascade Locks Ale House
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Elbe Bar & Grill
63.2 km
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Alexander's Lodge At Mt Rainier
63.4 km
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National Park Inn
66.0 km
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Red Carpet Inn
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pFriem Family Brewers
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Camp 1805 Distillery & Bar
71.5 km
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Ferment Brewing Company
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