Oregon is riddled with caves of all different kinds. The caves at Lava Beds National Monument were collapsed lava tubes. The caves at Oregon Caves National Monument are created from water dissolving marble. Way different geology.
The caves were discovered in 1874 by Elijah Davidson. It appears that he was perhaps the first human to ever set eyes on the cave. There has been no evidence, either from bones, markings, or fire of human use before 1874. The fact that the caves are so remote probably contribute to that. To reach the caves, you have to drive a 20 mile twisted road, the last 10 of which trailers are not recommended.
The guided Ranger cave tour (that is the only way to see the caves) lasts about 90 minutes, and extends for over a half mile underground. Some 500 plus steps, both up and down, are involved. The average temperature is 44 degrees and at the deepest point, the cave is 220 feet underground.
Cory, who is a member of the Douglas County Search and Rescue has actually had training sessions in the cave in areas that are off limits to the general public. About the first of November, the cave closes so that the bats can hibernate without human intervention.
After the cave tour, I took a mile long hike and got a good view of the Siskiyou Mountains.
There is a historic set of buildings at the monument, including the Oregon Caves Chateau. The chateau and other buildings at the site are officially listed on the National Record of Historic Places.
I arrived back in Roseburg at 3:30 to 96 degree temps. Yikes, as I write this at 5:45 I just checked the National Weather Service website, and the temperature at the Roseburg airport is 99!!!
It was a great day, and I highly recommend a visit to Oregon Caves....................
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