I think this cave is great, noted as being the longest discovered lave tube in the continental United States! This is a place for a fun family outing, not for professionals looking for some dangerous experience. It is safe and only takes an hour or so of your time (once you get there; it's a long drive). I have taken several youth groups to Ape Cave with kids from 6 to 16. Be sure that everyone has their own flash light, good walking shoes and a warm coat. You enter the lava tube near the middle of the full length where a natural cave-in occurred. I always play the joke of asking "Which way do you want to go? Up hill or down hill? The kids ask me, "What's the difference?" I tell them, "If you go up hill, there are more rock falls and it's a more difficult walk. But, if the lava starts flowing again, you can run back to the entry point and get out. If you go down hill, it's easy walking but the lava flow will trap you because it's a dead end." (just kidding, folks! Hot lava hasn't been in this tube for many, many years.) The kids usually choose down hill. Once we get to the dead end, I have all the kids gather around and turn off their lights. It is so dark, you can't see your hand 6 inches in front of your face. The 'lights-off" time usually lasts only about 15 seconds. Kids have this thing about being in a dark place. Bring the whole family and enjoy a great and memorable family outing. read more