The Volcano Rescue Team (VRT) was dispatched to Ape Cave south of Mount St. Helens on Wednesday, July 23, to assist a child and father in distress.
The pair had reportedly attempted to climb out through the cave's skylight feature and were unable to ascend or descend, according to a news release by the VRT.
The father was able to reach a safe ledge. However, the child, who had climbed higher, was experiencing fatigue and struggling to maintain their hold on the vertical rock face.
Upon the VRT's arrival, it was discovered that bystanders had managed to wedge a log down from the top, positioning it just below the child. This provided essential support and most likely stopped a significant fall into the cave, according to the VRT.
A rescuer was lowered to safely secure the child with a rope system and lower them to the cave floor. A second rescuer followed to secure the father, who was also lowered safely to the cave floor. Both individuals were then assisted out of the cave by rescuers and escorted back to the parking lot.
These incidents serve as a reminder that caves can be dangerous, and that visitors should always research and understand their route and exits beforehand, VRT stated.
“Make sure essential gear is always packed, including two sources of light per person, a first-aid kit, and layers of warm clothing,” VRT stated. “Being prepared makes all the difference for a safe and enjoyable excursion.”
According to the U.S. Forest Service, the Ape Cave is the third longest lava tube in North America at 2.5 miles. It was discovered in 1947 by Lawrence Johnson, a logger, but was only explored a few years later by a troop of Scouts, who lowered themselves into the cave and named it after their sponsor, the St. Helens Apes.
The genesis of the cave itself stems from a kind of eruption that was unusual for the Cascades: a basaltic eruption, which involves fluid lava. It’s the only known basaltic eruption of the volcano, and it sent lava pouring down the south side of the mountain.
Reservations are required. Visit https://www.recreation.gov/timed-entry/10086990 to learn more.
