Hiking Ape Canyon Trail

Ape Canyon Trail #234

Length:5.5 One Way

Season of Use:summer to fall

Elevation:3100 to 4200 feet above sea level

Visitor Use:Medium

Location:begins, Ape Canyon Trailhead, Forest Rd. 83; ends, Loowit Trail #216

Trail Talk:

Walk along the edge of a large mudflow from the 1980 eruption. Compare the terrain swept by the mudflow with the untouched area traversed by the trail. Hike through a growing plantation of young trees; then enter one of the few remaining segments of old growth forest untouched by the blast or mudflows. Catch magnificent views of Mt. Adams from grassy meadows on the east side of the ridge. Observe the wildflowers and watch for mountain goats which have been sighted in this area.

Trail Facts:This maintained trail begins at the crumbling edge of a mudflow and then follows an old road through a young regenerating forest. It then climbs through a remnant of old growth forest and emerges into open meadows on the east side of the ridge. It continues along the ridge through patches of old growth and standing dead trees and climbs to open meadows and volcano scoured rock at the top of Ape Canyon, where it terminates at the junction with Loowit Trail #216.

Considerations:· This trail has a steady upward grade as it climbs to Ape Canyon. Beware of steep drops and loose rock in the Ape Canyon area at the top of the trail.

Connections:

The Ape Canyon Trail connects with the Loowit Trail #216 for access to the Windy Ridge area or a round-the-mountain hike. This trail is part of a popular loop for mountain bikers: starting at Windy Ridge, ride the Truman Trail #207 to Abraham Trail #216D, then continue south to the Loowit Trail #216 and follow the Loowit Trail to the junction at the top of Ape Canyon Trail.

Map:Smith Creek Butte and Mount St. Helens quadrangles.

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