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News of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest
| For Immediate Release | CONTACT: JIM NIELAND |
| October 21, 1997 | PHONE: (360) 247-3946 |
VANCOUVER, WA --Ape Cave will be closed October 21 through 24 for replacement of a metal stairway. The stairway, which provides access to the main part of the cave, is being replaced for safety reasons. The project is made possible through money collected by the sale of Monument passes during the summer of 1997.
The original metal stairway, constructed in 1967, is due for replacement. The new stairway and railings will make the cave safer for visitors, while providingeasier access.
An average of 150,000 visitors visit Ape Cave each year, making it one of the most popular caves in the Northwest. Ape Cave is located 8 miles east of Cougar, Washington. Once the stairway is replaced the site will be reopened forself-exploration.
Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Revised: October 21, 1997.