Ape Caves
1 week ago
Cave is dark and cool, good for hot days
5 this month · 18 reports
Ape Canyon
South Cascades
updated 5 days ago
A significant trail hazard, known as the "Bad Step," remains a concern at Ape Canyon, where the trail has collapsed and is described as crumbling and narrow. Hikers report navigating this section with difficulty, and while some deem it passable with careful footing, others find it too risky. Most recent reports from September 2026 indicate the trail is otherwise in good condition with minor obstacles. The road access is generally suitable for all vehicles, though some reports from July and August noted a few ruts and dips requiring slower driving. Wildflowers were noted in July, and mountain goats have been spotted, though numbers vary.
Generated from 15 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.
What hikers ask about Ape Canyon
Generated from the most recent trip reports, newest 5 days ago. Check anything you’d turn around for.
The 'Bad Step' section of Ape Canyon trail remains a hazard due to erosion and crumbling trail. Reports from September 2026 describe it as hazardous and difficult to negotiate, with one report from September 5th noting it as sketchy and eroded into a crack. While some hikers have managed to pass it with careful steps, others have turned back due to perceived risk.
Reports from July and August 2026 mention the road having a few ruts and dips, advising slower driving, although it's generally considered suitable for all vehicles. A report from September 20th stated the road is suitable for all vehicles, with no mention of issues.
One report from August 7th specifically noted that there was 'no water ANYWHERE to be seen' on the Loowit Trail segment near Windy Pass. No other reports mention water sources, suggesting it is generally scarce.
A report from July 4th, 2026, indicated that there appeared to be some recent trail maintenance, noting only one log to climb over and thanking trail crews. Another report from July 18th mentioned trail crews cutting back vegetation on the way down.
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Trail notes generated from recent reports. Conditions change fast.
Sources
Fresh5 days ago
South Cascades > Mount St. Helens
The trail was in good shape with the exception of one spot along the rocky outwash section coming out of the forest where part of the trail had collapsed and was hazardous for some to negotiate.
Recent2 weeks ago
South Cascades > Mount St. Helens
What a beautiful trail! The first few miles are a gorgeous moderate climb through a truly lovely ecosystem. We turned around at what I’m guessing is where others have called the sketchy trail erosion ...
Older1 month ago
South Cascades > Mount St. Helens
One of my favorites! The road up is paved so all cars should be just fine, just a few dips to watch for. Trail is in good condition, bugs were not a problem. Smells wonderful walking through the fores...
South Cascades > Mount St. Helens
What a fantastic day on the Loowit today! (Even with the smoke.) Didn't see a soul for hours and hours, until about noon. Even then, it was one person. I did an out-and-back from Ape Canyon TH to Wind...
Older2 months ago
South Cascades > Mount St. Helens
The forest road 82 is paved all the way, but has a few spectacular ruts and dips and I'd drive it slower a second time. Arriving at 08:00am on a Saturday, the small Ape Canyon trail parking lot was al...
Older2 months ago
South Cascades > Mount St. Helens
Overall an incredible hike. Arrived at the trailhead at 7am, still 2 spots available in the parking lot (tho some had already parked along the side of the driveway). Couldn’t have asked for better wea...
Older2 months ago
South Cascades > Mount St. Helens
For the 4th of July (since the weather was gorgeous), we hiked the Ape Canyon trail to the Plains of Abraham. The trail was in great condition, with only one log to climb over. It looks like there has...
Older3 months ago
South Cascades > Mount St. Helens
Just here to second the previous trip report. I’d say the spot is not just ‘sketchy’, but fairly dangerous. It is about 18” wide 10’ long, out-sloped over a steep drop onto sharp rocks. It’s on uncons...
Older3 months ago
South Cascades > Mount St. Helens
This is a beautiful trail! Not long after you reach the open area the trail reaches a really sketchy section. There is an easy way to go around it. As you are heading that way you will see a clearing ...
Older3 months ago
South Cascades > Mount St. Helens
Arrived at 1:30pm, both the lot and the shoulder of the road were packed with cars. But we lucked into one of the few spots in the lot as an early morning hiker left right as we pulled up, late starts...