Oregon Caves

Our first roadtrip this summer was a week-long trip round western Oregon. It started off with quick trip down the I5 corridor to Grant's Pass. After that we crossed over the mountains, hitting the Oregon Caves and the giant redwood forest on the way to the coast. The rest of the trip was coming up the southern Oregon coast before crossing back after Lincoln City.

The second big stop of our Oregon Coast Vacation was at the Oregon Caves, along the Redwoods Highway on our way to the northwest tip of California. These caves are really out of the way - along a minor highway; then down a really long, windy dead-end road. However, they were phenomenal!

Mary & I visited them once many years ago just after we got married, but this was the kids' first trip. It's a long, guided hike through the caves, with tons of stairs and tight places. Sean made it to the half-way point, but then Mary had to take him out and back. Kayl actually made the whole trip - and was very proud of doing so!


Finally! The end of a very long, windy road...


And this little info hut tells you that the parking lot is only a short (1/4 mile) walk (uphill) from the caves gift shop/registration booth.


Soda Straws: little spots where the water (filter through the earth for months to years) comes dripping down to give you "cave kisses".


Eyes closed for flash pictures preserves your "night vision" for walking in the caves!


Flow Stone: Where the water comes out a wall and flows (so very slowly) creating curved, banana-like formations.


Column: Where a stalactite meets up with its stalagmite.


More flow stone...


Kayl on the second half of the walk.


This formation has phosphorescent in it, and actually glowed in the complete darkness after we shined our lights on it.


The bones of an animal found in the cave...