vestal (04/19/83)
"Warning - in winter and spring the Forest Service may be sending artillery fire for avalanche control on the large slide path on the SW slopes. It would be extremely hazardous for anyone to be in this area or on Cave Ridge during such control action..... Caution: Cave Ridge develops a large cornice through late spring." -- from Cascade Alpine Guide by Fred Beckey I called the Gifford Pinchot National Forest People -- in spite of it's proximity to Mt. St. Helens, Ape Cave (reported to be the longest lava tube in the continental US) is accessable. Access routes seem to be maintained and posted, though the cave itself is undeveloped and requires your normal array of caving gear. ITS COLD! Clothing suitable for freezing weather is needed. I'm still waiting to hear of any Pac NW cavers interested in a field trip -- my vote is Ape cave the first time out. ...decvax!microsof!uw-beaver!vestal VESTAL@WASHINGTON (206)-522-2860