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(1.3 mile, 2.1 km loop) This trail leads from the lower parking lot along No Name Creek and Cave Creek, through the forest and up to the visitor center - consider asking a ranger for directions to the nearest trail access point as there are several ways to get to this trail. The "dead end" paths along the trail lead to small waterfalls. The total elevation change during the trail is 268 feet (82 m).
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.)