5 of the coolest caves you can visit in Washington before summer is over
Our state is full of natural wonders, many that are visible in the world right in front of us so it’s easy to be focused on what’s above ground. But there is nature equally as beautiful below ground and it’s worth exploring! Here are 5 of the coolest caves you can visit in Washington before summer is over.
Ape Cave
Ape Cave is the third longest lava tube in North America, spanning 2.5 miles long, and is about nine miles east of Cougar, WA, within Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument.
The cave temperature is 42 degrees F year-round, so if you plan to visit, you will need warm clothes even in the warm weather. You will also want to wear sturdy shoes, and to bring two sources of light per person – note that cell phone lights are not bright enough for the caves!
Where: Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Layser Cave
Layser Cave is described as “one of the most significant archaeological sites in western Washington. It was used by humans dating back as far as 7,000 years ago and was only discovered in 1982. Today you can visit the small cave after a half-hour hike.
Where: Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Gardner Cave
Luckily for you, you can actually explore Washington’s longest cave. It’s located within the otherwise unassuming Crawford State Park and is a “500 million-year-old cavern that measures approximately 2,072 feet in length and 295 feet in depth.” There’s even a guided tour!
Where: Crawford State Park
Gueler Ice Cave
The Gueler Ice Caves are a unique frozen subterranean world. They are located in Gifford Pinchot National Forest and are open for you to explore. They once provided ice to Washingtonians as “barges would cross the Columbia River to carry chipped ice back to Hood River.”
These days they’re undisturbed but if you choose to explore make sure you wear warm clothes and very sturdy shoes. There is also a group of forested picnic areas with tables and fire rings are located adjacent to the Ice Cave.
Where: Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Lenore Lake Caves
The Lenore Lake Caves are shallow but magnificent, a result of the great Missoula flood. Lake Lenore Caves State Park Heritage Site is in central Washington, south of Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park.
Where: Lenore Lake, Washington
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Ready to adventure? If you decide to go be sure to read up on each cave’s rules and double-check closure dates before heading out. Additionally, don’t forget proper lighting, layers, and footwear!
