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A photo collage showing broken karst topography and cave features.
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Tongass Home » Districts and Offices » Prince of Wales Island » Recreation

 

El Capitan Cave Guided Cave Tour

 

This is the entrance to the El Capitan cave.

 

2010 Operating Season

First tour: May 25
Last tour: September 4

Cost: Free

 

Daily Tour Times
(Tuesday - Saturday)

 9:00 - 11:00 am
12:00 -  2:00 pm
 2:30 -  4:30 pm

Group Size Limit: 6 people

What to Bring: Sturdy footgear. Forest Service provides helmets and flashlights. Warm clothing is recommended as the cave temperature is a constant 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Wet and muddy conditions are typical.

Precautions: The trail to El Capitan Cave entrance is strenuous and steep. The trail is primarily boardwalk with over 370 stairs. There are no trails or lighting in the cave. Hazards include low ceilings, pits, and uneven ground.

Children: Parents or legal guardians are responsible for their children. No babies in packs, strollers or carriers are allowed. Children under 7 are not recommended on tours due to difficult cave terrain and hazards.

Access: El Capitan Cave can be reached by vehicle, boat, or plane. By road, follow Forest Road 20 to Forest Road 15. Head west on FR 15 for about a mile to the parking area. Watch for signs to El Capitan. There is a Forest Service dock for use by boats and planes. Boats and/or planes cannot be left unattended.

Contact:
Thorne Bay Ranger District
Prince of Wales Island
Phone 907-828-3304

Reservations: Reservations are highly recommended! Reservations must be made at least 2 days in advance: call Thorne Bay Ranger District at 907-828-3304. Reservations made on a first-come, first-serve basis. Same day walk-ins are accepted if there is space available on the tour.

Printable El Capitan Cave Guided Cave Tour PDF

USDA Forest Service - Tongass National Forest
Last Modified: April 15, 2010