Prepare for an unforgettable journey into the heart of a mountain at the Oregon Caves. After a scenic, winding drive up into the Siskiyou Mountains, you'll join a ranger-led tour to explore the magnificent marble passageways. The 90-minute Discovery Tour is a moderately strenuous walk, involving over 500 stairs and some ducking through low-ceilinged corridors, but the stunning formations are well worth the effort. Remember to bring a warm layer, as the cave maintains a cool 44 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, offering a perfect escape from the summer heat.

If you're looking to warm up and get the blood pumping following your cave tour, this National Monument has several hiking trails to extend your visit. For the grand tour of the area, consider taking the roughly 3.5 mile Big Tree Loop. Perhaps you'll even discover a hidden cave entrance to explore yourself? If you only have about an hour, head on the No Name Trail for lush forest and cascading streams which clocks in at 1.6 miles.