Volcanic Varnish in Ape Cave EarthCache

Important logistics to know before you go: 

• In order to log this cache, you must go inside Ape Cave.

• Timed reservations are required to visit Ape Cave during the open season: May 18 through October 31. Choose a two-hour time slot for your desired day on recreation.gov ($2 admin fee). 
• A $5/vehicle/day or valid Recreation Pass is required to park at Ape Cave.
• There is no electricity or lighting in the cave: you must bring at least two light sources with you.
• Stay up to date on requirements or closures with the Forest Service

Lava Tubes

Welcome to Ape Cave, the third-longest known lava tube in the world!

Lava Tubes are a special type of cave which are formed by cooling lava flows, and this method of formation creates many unique features only found within lava tubes. 

"Lava Glaze" is one such feature. Lava glaze is a smooth, glass-like surface on rocks that happens as a result of a volcanic eruption. Lava can be extremely hot - over 1800 degrees Fahrenheit! - which liquefies rock. When lava was actively flowing through this corridor, it was extremely hot inside, and as the shell started to cool, the hot lava inside the tube kept the inner layer liquified for longer, creating a shiny, smooth surface. Other scientists believe glaze is a result of magnetite crystals growing 

Logging Requirements: 

1. Climb over the large breakdown pile in the Great Room to the third distinct pile. 
2. Locate a rock that has a distinctive smooth surface. Where did this rock originate?
3. Describe how it feels, compared to a rock without this surface.
4. Attach a photo of you and the rock with the smooth side that you find. 

Sources: 
https://caves.org/virtualcave/glaze/