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(1 mile, 1.6 km loop) This trail starts at the visitor center and leads up to a view of the Illinois Valley, gaining 371 feet (113 m) of elevation in the process. For those who take the cave tour, the exit trail from the cave provides the opportunity to hike a portion of this trail that includes the best views.
Built in 1924, this visitor center is adjacent to the Chateau and offers exhibits about the cave and items for sale. Cave tour reservations must be made at the desk, and cave tours start from the visitor center.
The center provides information about the area, including up to the moment cave tour information at the Oregon Caves National Monument. Same day tickets for cave tours are available at the center Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day. Afternoon wait times can be long in the summer. Buying tickets before driving to the park can save a lot of time and hassle. (Reservations can be bought up to one day in advance of the day of visit on Recreation.gov.)