The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Red Buttes Wilderness
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Family friendly hiking trails in Red Buttes Wilderness traverse a diverse landscape characterized by sharp ridges, expansive meadows, and deep river canyons. The region features rocky buttes, forested ridges, and small, glacially carved lake basins, with the Red Buttes themselves notable for their reddish-orange hue. Lush forests contain a variety of conifer species, including old-growth ponderosa pine and sugar pine. Cold streams cascade through eroded canyons, leading to hidden waterfalls and glacial-carved lakes.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Red…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
4
hikers
5.51km
01:56
330m
340m
Hike the moderate 3.4-mile Big Tree Trail in Oregon Caves National Monument, gaining 1089 feet in elevation through impressive forests.
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15.0km
04:52
700m
710m
Hike the 9.3-mile Mount Elijah and Big Tree Trail Loop in Oregon Caves National Monument, featuring panoramic views and ancient forests.
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1
hikers
1.66km
00:35
100m
100m
Embark on the Cliff Nature Trail for an easy hike that takes you through a pleasant, likely forested environment above the famous Oregon Caves. This route covers 1.0 miles (1.7…
1.38km
00:25
50m
40m
Enjoy an easy 0.9-mile hike through old-growth forests and past marble outcrops at Oregon Caves National Monument.
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Mount Elijah, situated in the Siskiyou Mountains of southwestern Oregon, stands at an elevation of approximately 6,411 feet and is part of the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest. Located near Oregon Caves National Monument, you can access the trail to Mount Elijah from within the boundaries of the monument itself, starting at the visitor center. The hike from begins and ends along the popular Big Tree Trail, where you climb through lush forests and past marble formations, offering glimpses of the unique geology and diverse plant life of the Klamath-Siskiyou region. The region is rich in biodiversity, featuring coniferous forests, alpine meadows, and wildlife such as black bears and deer. As part of the geologically complex Klamath-Siskiyou region, Mount Elijah is composed of ancient rocks and is a popular destination for hiking and camping. You can also access the mountain from outside of the monument via the Bigelow Lakes-Mount Elijah Loop Trail, which provides stunning views of the surrounding wilderness, including the Illinois Valley.
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Old Growth Trail is a short, easy trail that connects from the main Caves Highway to the popular Big Tree Trail. This is a great trail to stretch your legs a little and admire some ancient trees.
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The Big Tree Trail is a popular trail in the Oregon Caves National Monument. The trail begins at an archway behind the visitor center and if you complete the full loop, it is just over 3 miles, with 1,100 feet of elevation gain. This section of the Big Tree Trail is where most of the elevation is gained; you switchback up a steep climb through mountain meadows, dense forests, and past the widest Douglas fir tree known in Oregon! You also take the Big Tree Trail if climbing up to Mount Elijah, one of the longer and more challenging hikes in the area.
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The Cliff Nature Trail in Oregon Caves National Monument is a scenic 1-mile loop starting behind the visitor center and ending near the cave entrance. The trail gains 370 feet in elevation and reaches a high point of 4,320 feet; it climbs to a viewpoint with stone benches, offering panoramic views of the Illinois Valley, then descends back through the forest. It's family-friendly, features wildlife, and intersects with the Big Tree Trail if you want to add more mileage to your hike.
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The Oregon Caves Visitor Center is open from spring through fall. It offers cave tour ticket sales, information, exhibits on the Oregon Caves and Siskiyou Mountains, Junior Ranger programs, and a bookstore. Visitors can access several popular hiking trails from here, including the Cliff Nature Trail and Big Tree Trail. The visitor center is also where you meet for guided cave tours. The caves are only accessible if you are a part of a guided tour with a ranger (please visit https://www.nps.gov/orca/planyourvisit/cave-tours.htm for more information on the cave tours). Due to high demand in summer, it is recommended to check current conditions and purchase tickets at the Illinois Valley Visitor Center, which is located in Cave Junction at the bottom of Cave Highway.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in the Red Buttes Wilderness?
There are 4 dedicated family-friendly hiking trails in the Red Buttes Wilderness featured in this guide. These include 2 easy routes and 2 moderate options, offering a variety of experiences for different family needs.
What are some easy hiking options suitable for families with young children?
For families with younger children or those seeking a gentler walk, the Old Growth Trail is an excellent choice, taking about 24 minutes to complete. Another easy option is the Cliff Nature Trail, which offers a pleasant 35-minute walk.
Are there any trails that feature the impressive old-growth forests of the Red Buttes Wilderness?
Absolutely! The Red Buttes Wilderness is renowned for its diverse and ancient forests. The Old Growth Trail is specifically designed to showcase these magnificent trees, including ponderosa pine and sugar pine. The Big Tree Trail also leads you through impressive stands of mature conifers.
What kind of natural features or landmarks can we expect to see on these family hikes?
The Red Buttes Wilderness offers a stunning array of natural beauty. On these trails, you'll encounter lush old-growth forests, rocky buttes with distinctive reddish-orange hues, and cold streams. While not directly on every family trail, the region is also home to hidden waterfalls and picturesque glacial lakes like Azalea Lake and Lonesome Lake, which are highlights of the broader wilderness.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in the Red Buttes Wilderness?
The ideal time for family hiking is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn. Winters bring cool, wet conditions, and snow can cover higher elevations from November to May, shortening the hiking season. Summers are hot and dry, so it's essential to carry ample water during this period.
Are there any loop trails suitable for families?
Yes, for families looking for a loop experience, the Mount Elijah and Big Tree Trail Loop offers a moderate, longer option. This trail provides a comprehensive experience of the area's diverse landscapes.
What should we pack for a family hike in the Red Buttes Wilderness?
Given the varied conditions, it's wise to pack layers of clothing, plenty of water (especially in summer), snacks, sun protection, and a first-aid kit. Depending on the season, insect repellent can also be useful. Be aware of potential rattlesnakes, ticks, and poison oak, particularly on south-facing routes.
What wildlife might we encounter on the trails?
The Red Buttes Wilderness is rich in wildlife. You might spot deer, various bird species, and if you're lucky, perhaps even a black bear or coyote from a safe distance. The area is also home to the elusive ring-tail cat and peregrine falcons nesting on remote cliffs.
Are there any trails that offer scenic viewpoints?
Many trails in the Red Buttes Wilderness offer stunning views as they traverse ridges and open areas. The distinctive rocky buttes themselves, like the Red Buttes and Kangaroo Mountain, provide natural scenic backdrops. The Mount Elijah and Big Tree Trail Loop, for example, offers expansive vistas as it climbs.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Red Buttes Wilderness?
The Red Buttes Wilderness is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the area's rugged natural beauty, the tranquility of the old-growth forests, and the opportunity to experience diverse landscapes, from rocky peaks to serene glacial lakes.
Are the family-friendly trails generally crowded?
While the Red Buttes Wilderness is a popular destination, many of the family-friendly trails offer a sense of solitude, especially outside of peak holiday weekends. The area's expansive nature allows for a peaceful hiking experience, letting families connect with nature without feeling overwhelmed by crowds.
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