Directions

Important Travel Information for Oregon Caves National Monument

Caution with GPS Directions: Do not rely on GPS or Google Maps for directions, especially from the east, as these often direct you through Williams, Oregon over confusing mountainous gravel roads that are not suitable for all vehicles.

Travel Time and Route Details

The drive from Cave Junction to the Oregon Caves Visitor Center takes 60 minutes, with a narrow, steep, and winding final stretch. Large RVs and travel trailers are not recommended, and vehicles over 46 feet are prohibited.

Directions from Grants Pass (I-5):

1. Take Exit 58 to merge onto NE 6th St/OR-99/Redwood Hwy.
2. Continue on Redwood Hwy for 3 miles.
3. Turn right onto US-199 toward Cave Junction (29 miles).
4. In Cave Junction, turn left onto OR-46. Consider stopping at the Illinois Valley Visitor Center for updated information.
5. Follow OR-46 for 20 miles to the monument parking lot.
   • (The drive and 900 ft walk to the Visitor Center takes one hour from Cave Junction.)

Directions from Crescent City, California:

1. Drive north on US-101.
2. Take Exit 794 to merge onto US-199 toward Grants Pass/I-5.
3. In Cave Junction, turn right onto OR-46, and stop at the Illinois Valley Visitor Center if time allows.
4. Follow OR-46 for 20 miles to the monument parking lot.
   • (From Cave Junction, the drive and walk takes one hour.)

Directions from Brookings, Oregon:

1. Drive south on US-101.
2. Turn left onto CA-197.
3. Turn left onto US-199 toward Grants Pass/I-5.
4. In Cave Junction, turn right at OR-46, and consider stopping at the Illinois Valley Visitor Center for updates.
5. Follow OR-46 for 20 miles to the monument parking lot.
   • (It’s a 60-minute drive and walk to the Visitor Center from Cave Junction.)

Final Stretch to the Monument

The last 10 miles of OR-46 are narrow, steep, and winding. Drive no faster than 10 mph once you reach the monument, stay in your lane, and watch for blind corners and wildlife. For those prone to car sickness, the winding road may present challenges, so plan accordingly. Large RVs and trailers are discouraged beyond Grayback Campground (mile post 12).