Going Ape! (Part 2) Ape Canyon Trail

Activity Notes

This is part two of the "Going Ape!" series, a two part hike over two days. Join us for one or both days. Part one is the upper section of Ape Cave on the 4th. Part two is hiking Ape Canyon in the 5th. Search "Going Ape!" to find both hikes on the Mazamas calendar.  We will be car camping the night before (more details to follow if you are interested!).  This is an 11 mile out and back trail departing from the Ape Canyon trailhead.  Approx 2500' of elevation gain.  Its a scenic but challenging hike which includes sweeping views of Mount Saint Helen's, old growth forest,  pumice flatlands and lahar debris.  We will most likely encounter mountain goats, marmots, wild flowers, and if we are lucky, Sasquatch!  It's gonna be bananas! From the Forest Service website, "Beginning next to the mud flow that traveled down the Muddy River drainage, the trail climbs steadily through a plantation of young trees before entering groves of giant Douglas fir, silver and noble fir. The trail then emerges on an open ridge top with views east into Ape Canyon and in the distance, Mount Adams."