Ape Cave, WA
Today’s Forecast:
Today’s Report:
Hiking
Use Caution for hiking. High near 46°F. Rain forecast later today (89%). Light wind (7 mph).
- Temp: Marginal weather factor
- Rain: Marginal weather factor
- Wind: Favorable conditions
- Thunderstorm: Favorable conditions
Camping
Use Caution for camping. High near 46°F. Rain forecast later today (89%). Light wind (7 mph).
- Temp: Marginal weather factor
- Rain: Marginal weather factor
- Wind: Favorable conditions
- Thunderstorm: Favorable conditions
Outdoor Events / Activities
Not Recommended for outdoor events / activities. High near 46°F. Rain forecast later today (89%). Light wind (7 mph). Temperatures outside comfort limits (46°F).
- Temp: Unfavorable weather factor
- Rain: Marginal weather factor
- Wind: Favorable conditions
- Thunderstorm: Favorable conditions
About Ape Cave
Ape Cave is a Washington destination for a long lava tube, rough underground route, forest approaches, permit system, and south-side volcano recreation.
Make the Most of a Ape Cave Day
Bring multiple lights and layers because cave temperature differs sharply from summer air. Check permits, snow, road access, and surface fire restrictions.
Weather Tips for Ape Cave
- Compare valley and high-elevation forecasts because snow, wind, clouds, smoke, and temperature can change sharply with elevation.
- If thunder is possible, finish exposed viewpoints, ridges, golf, or event grounds early and keep substantial shelter close.
- Check overnight lows, wet ground, fire rules, drainage, and the nearest substantial shelter before settling into camp.
- Summer smoke, winter access, shoulder-season closures, and shorter fall daylight can matter even during an otherwise mild forecast.
Nearby Towns and Areas
This page can also be useful when planning outdoor time near:
- Cougar
- Lava Canyon
- Trail of Two Forests
- Swift Reservoir
- Marble Mountain Sno-Park
- Mount St. Helens south side
- Lewis River
Plan Around the Conditions
Use the forecast to choose the best version of a Ape Cave day. Match wind, precipitation, smoke, water conditions, trail surfaces, road access, temperature, and daylight to the activity that gives your group the safest and most comfortable plan.
7-Day Forecast for Ape Cave
Ape Cave Weather by Season
Winter
Winter at Ape Cave brings mountain snow, ice, short daylight, and changing road or trailhead access. Higher routes may close while lower valleys remain rainy, so check current transportation notices.
Spring
Spring around Ape Cave brings changing conditions, rising rivers, wet trails, and lingering mountain snow. Give muddy natural surfaces time to drain and avoid widening trails. Mountain and eastern thunderstorms become increasingly possible later in the season.
Summer
Summer at Ape Cave is usually the driest and most dependable season, but wildfire smoke, fire restrictions, heat, and afternoon thunderstorms can interrupt plans. Start exposed routes early and carry enough water. Dry vegetation makes local fire rules especially important.
Fall
Fall at Ape Cave brings cooler temperatures, shorter daylight, changing color, and the return of wetter weather west of the Cascades. Early snow or ice may reach upper roads before lower elevations. Check seasonal facility hours and allow extra time on busy event or salmon-viewing weekends.
Key Climate Data Points
- Annual average temperature: around 44–47°F in surrounding lower forest, while the cave remains cool year-round, using the relevant local or regional elevation context.
- Annual snowfall: winter snowfall can be substantial on the south-side access roads, with substantial year-to-year and elevation variation.
- Warmest months: July and August are normally warmest.
- Coolest months: December through February are typically coolest.
- Wettest season: November through January.
- Driest season: July and August.
- Best outdoor window: late spring through fall when roads and cave access are normally open.