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Oregon Caves National Monument is small in size, 480 acres, but rich in
diversity. Above ground, the monument encompasses a remnant old-growth coniferous
forest including a Douglas-fir tree with the widest known girth in Oregon.
Three hiking trails access this forest. Below ground is a marble cave created
by natural forces over hundreds of thousands of years in one of the world's
most diverse geologic realms. Cave tour information: See IN DEPTH Restrictions
for children under 42 inches: See IN DEPTH Information on the strenuous
nature of cave tours: See IN DEPTH
The Oregon Caves Chateau is one of Southern Oregon's most charming lodges.
It is not overly fancy and the rooms are rustic, but this unique 5 story
landmark building with beautiful bark siding is one of the West's most intriguing
lodges. The Oregon Caves Chateau was featured in the PBS TV special and
book "Great Lodges of the American West" for it's old fashioned charm and
architectural elegance.
Oregon Caves is one of three national parks or monuments in the state of
Oregon. Located in the extreme southwestern portion of the state in the
Siskiyou Mountains, the park features reknowned limestone caves, beautiful
forested mountains, and historic architecture. At 488 acres, it is one of
the smallest natural areas administered by the National Park Service.
One of the most charming features of the monument is its remoteness. The
monument can be reached only by a twisting 19-mile drive from the town of
Cave Junction, which itself is a ways from the southern Oregon town of Grants
Pass. Although the monument itself is small, it is surrounded by beautiful
forest land and the monument itself contains old growth coniferous forest.
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