Skylight Cave, Lava tube cave in Deschutes National Forest, Oregon, US.
Skylight Cave is a lava tube in Deschutes National Forest with three natural ceiling openings. These openings allow sunlight to stream into the cave interior during morning hours, creating illuminated passages.
The cave entrance once had multiple deteriorated wooden ladders until steel access structures were installed in recent times. This upgrade made visitor access safer and more manageable.
The cave closes seasonally to protect hibernating Townsend's big-eared bats in their winter rest. This reflects how the local community values sharing the space with wildlife.
Bring sturdy footwear and a reliable flashlight or headlamp for the rocky terrain. Plan your visit between 8 AM and 10 AM when sunlight streams through the ceiling openings most effectively.
The eastern passage displays numerous small dome-like formations suggesting where the ceiling once had additional openings. These features reveal how the cave has naturally evolved over time.
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