Boulder Cave Day Use Area


Area Status: Closed
Boulder Cave picnic shelter

Boulder Cave Day Use Area closed on September 17, 2023 for the winter season.  The opening date has not yet been determined for the 2024 season.

New this season the site was put on a timed-reservation system through Recreation.gov. Reserervations will need to be made in advance of your visit going forward in the upcoming 2024 year. Tickets are available for reserving 14 days (site will open for tickets in May 2024) in advance.

 

PDT. WALK-INS WILL NOT BE ALLOWED

Provides access to Boulder Barrier Free Trail and Boulder Cave Trail.

The Picnic Shelter offers a paved surface and benches to enjoy the Naches River.  The picnic table areas have asphalt surfaces that are wheel-chair suitable. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) in English and Spanish.

 

Boulder Cave Re-Opening Event 2015 Walking in to Boulder Cave National Recreation Trail logo Bridge to Boulder Cave Entrance to Boulder Cave from inside

At a Glance

Operational Hours: The weekly schedule and operational hours will be posted to the Recreation.gov information page for Boulder Cave Day Use area. In general, reservations will begin at 10 a.m. and early entrance will be prohibited.  In addition, entrance after 3 p.m. will not be allowed. Visitors will be allowed to leave the site and re-enter on the same day. 
Reservations: Reservations are required. Reservations will need to be made in advance at recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Reservations can be made no more than 14 days in advance, but no less than 2 days in advance depending on availability. Same day reservations are not possible. Print a copy of your reservation and/or download it to a mobile device. Forest Service staff will scan your ticket upon entry to the parking lot. Please read all the information provided on Recreation.gov to ensure understanding of all regulations for an enjoyable visit. 
Fees: Timed ticket reservations will be $5 per vehicle with a $2 non-refundable reservation fee.  The option to use a valid Recreation Pass, such as Northwest Forest Pass or other applicable pass, remains in effect. This information will need to be provided when reservations are booked.  If you possess a Recreation Pass and it was used to secure your reservation, please ensure you clearly display it in your vehicle on the day of your visit.
Usage: Heavy
Best Season: Summer
Restrictions: No camping
Closest Towns: Naches, WA
Water: Potable Water
Restroom: Vault Toilet (2)
Passes: Recreation Passes may be used when making reservations at Recreation.gov for discount on your ticket price.
Operated By: Forest Service

General Information

Directions:

From Naches, WA take Highway 12 W for 4.4 miles and continue onto Highway 410 W and follow for another 25 miles past the community of Cliffdell.  Then turn left on Forest Road 1704 / Old River Road, cross the bridge over the Naches River, take a right and follow the road to the end.


Accessibility:

Wheelchair accessible. See Video


Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Day Hiking

Viewing Wildlife

Many areas require reservations and are not accessible without having a valid reservation. Boulder Cave Trail, Boulder Cave Day Use Area, Boulder Cave Barrier Free Trail, and Boulder Cave Group Campgrounds require reservations.

Viewing Scenery

Many areas require reservations and are not accessible without having a valid reservation. Boulder Cave Trail, Boulder Cave Day Use Area, Boulder Cave Barrier Free Trail, and Boulder Cave Group Campgrounds require reservations.

Interpretive Areas

Many areas require reservations and are not accessible without having a valid reservation. Boulder Cave Trail, Boulder Cave Day Use Area, Boulder Cave Barrier Free Trail, and Boulder Cave Group Campgrounds require reservations.

Picnicking

Picnic tables are available at this site for day use. Please be aware, reservations are required and this area is not accessible without having a valid reservation. Boulder Cave Trail, Boulder Cave Day Use Area, Boulder Cave Barrier Free Trail, and Boulder Cave Group Campgrounds require reservations.

Group Picnicking