Oregon Caves National Monument
The first thing to know is that children must be at least 42 inches (107 cm) tall, pass a steep stair test unassisted, and be able to listen and follow directions from a Ranger to participate in a cave tour. So long as you can get in then, the tour itself is Ranger led and kept interesting, with some stunning natural features.
Above ground there are also 4 hiking trails and other natural pastimes.
We are caveaholics. We spent two days at OCNM. The first day started with the non standard cave tour. We had a blast crawling around in the little nooks a crannies of the upper portion of the cave not shown on the standard cave tour. That afternoon we hiked up the mountain to get some amazing views. Spent the night in the lodge. Both dinner and breakfast meals at the hotel were good and kept inline of our expectations. Overall the accommodations were nice. A very nice historic hotel. The second day we went on the standard cave tour. I would have loved to spent hours in the cave taking photos but had to keep up with the tour. If left to my own devices I could easily spend a couple of days in there taking photographs. The standard tour was very easy to get through if you want to have fun crawling around go on the extra tour. Do both tours don’t skip they are so different.
Great place to visit and everything was really well done. From the lodge to the Parks employees, everyone was really great. Be aware that children under 42″ will not be able to do the cave for safety reasons. Some rumors about making a 38″ requirement section but my daughter just missed the 42″ cutoff, so we’ll have to come back again. Plenty of wildlife and trails all around the lodge with zero wifi/internet make this a great place to just turn off the technology and enjoy your surroundings.
Wonderful tour through the marble caverns. Ranger Joe kept everyone entertained with his humor and vast knowledge. We were on the first tour of the day which I hear is less crowded than the later tours. Even though it can be almost 100 degrees outside in early August, the caves are a brisk 44 degrees inside so be prepared and don”t wear shorts. Lots of walking and stairs inside the well lit cave and definitely worth the effort.
These caves are unlike any other I’ve ever seen in the Pacific northwest.The formations will leave you amazed. The preparations for public display really bring out the exciting shapes and colors. Safety is very well taken care of. Do listen to the guide, and watch your every step.
I hear they have a candle or lantern lite tour. Loved ie