- 3 mile loop trail
- Advanced
- Must need sturdy shoes, headlamps, water, and warm clothing
- Must be physically fit as you are required to cross miles worth of rock scrambles and climb up an 8 foot wall that is wet and only given a rope
- A permit is required
The upper cave trail of Mount St Helens lava tubes is an extreme and physically challenging hike and only meant for those who are seeking an extreme adventure. Quickly into the hike, you will come across a rock scramble, with boulders ranging in sizes. After about 0.8 of a mile, you will come across a 8 foot lava wall that can be difficult for most to get over. The wall is wet, only having one solid foot hold and a rope to pull yourself up. If you cannot lift your body weight, you may need assistance to help you get up, so make sure to hike with another person. Once over the wall, you will continue to rock scramble and squeeze through small holes for another .6 mile. Within this portion, you will come across a natural skylight, which is not safe or legal to exit from. At the end of the trail, there will be a metal ladder which will bring you out of the cave. This trail takes you back to the entrance, being about 1.3 miles. The trail is a gentle decline, though beware as there is some rock stairs and bees (lots of bees).
