Pets allowed
Not Allowed
Elevation Gain
370.00 ft (112.78 m)
Trail type
Loop
Distance
1.10 mi (1.77 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

At only 1 mile in length, the Cliff Nature Trail may be the most scenic and appealing outdoor trail inside Oregon Caves National Monument. The trail itself is a loop with one end beginning at the trail sign immediately behind the visitor center and the other end adjacent to the entrance to the Cave Tour.

The best way to hike the Cliff Nature Trail might be joining it at the end of the Cave Tour hike. Rather than opting for the descending fork, which leads down a paved path back toward the visitor center, instead climb in elevation, essentially hugging the outside of the cave system before the trail emerges at a viewpoint with stone benches and a wide panoramic view across the Illinois Valley. Enjoy the vista, after which the trail descends back into the forest, eventually intersecting with the Big Tree Trail and returning to the visitor center.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Scenic high point. Can be added to Cave Tour.

Cons

None.

Trailhead Elevation

4,000.00 ft (1,219.20 m)

Highest point

4,320.00 ft (1,316.74 m)

Features

Wildlife
Big vistas
Family friendly
Potable water

Typically multi-day

No

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Adventures

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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