Frequently Asked Questions

How do we get there?

Please visit Directions for more information.

How much do cave tours cost?

Please visit Fee & Reservations for current costs on cave tours.

Can we make reservations for cave tours? No. Tickets are sold on a first come first serve basis. Early arrival is recommended and tickets may be purchased for any tour scheduled the day of your arrival.

How long is the cave tour and what is the waiting time?

Tours last 90 minutes. Expect at least 15 minutes for the hike back to your car. Wait times can reach up to two hours during the summer season. The busiest times are between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm. Earlier or later arrival is recommended.

Can we tour the caves alone? Sorry, no. For the protection of the caves, all tours are led by National Park Rangers and staff.

What should we bring for the cave tour?

Find out more about What to Bring for the Tour for more information.

Why is there a 42 inch (107 cm) height requirement for children? The cave tour is moderately strenuous and for safety reasons, children must be able to walk without the assistance of their parents.

What can our family do if we have one child who is under the requirement?

There are still many activities you and your family may participate in.

Can we take pictures in the caves?

Yes, although some of the caves’ rooms are restricted to "no flash" for bat protection. Flash photography is permitted throughout most of the cave tour. Please be courteous and conscious of affecting other people’s vision in the caves from flashes and not slowing tours down for photographic purposes. Tripods and some camera bags are not permitted in the caves.

Do we need flashlights?

No, the caves have lights and the Ranger carries flashlights. Please do not bring your flashlight. Find out more about What NOT to Bring for the Tour.

How strenuous is the cave tour?

Please visit Cave Tour Precautions for more information.

Are pets permitted at the Monument? Please visit Pets for more information.

How far is the National Monument from…? Bend, OR 240 miles / 386 km (approximately 5.5 hours)

Crater Lake, OR 150 miles / 240 km (approximately 3.5 hours)

Crescent City, OR 75 miles / 120 km (approximately 2 hours)

Eugene, OR 200 miles / 320 km (approximately 4 hours)

Grants Pass, OR 55 miles / 90 km (approximately 1.5 hours)

Portland, OR 300 miles / 480 km (approximately 5 hours)

San Francisco, CA 450 miles / 725 km (approximately 8 hours)