The main feature of Cody Caves Provincial Park is the network of limestone caves. But for those wishing to explore above the surface, a short trail loops along the forest floor with clues about the underground wonderland below.
Distance, round trip: 2.6km
Elevation: +117m
Season: late May to early October
Difficulty: Easy
Trailhead and Driving Directions
From Ainsworth Hotsprings, drive 3.5km North on Highway 31 and watch for the signed turn-off on the left for Cody Caves Provincial Park. Take this forest service road and drive 10.7km up to the parking lot. All the junctions are signed and the road is recommended for 2WD high clearance vehicles. For detailed odometer directions, see the Cody Cave Tours website.
Up to the Cave Entrance
The trail starts ascending through the forest between the outhouse and the tour booth. At 0.3km, pass the junction on the right where the trail will loop back on return. Stay left and follow the trail as it continues to rise. It will pass the outlet stream from Cody Caves, and then at 0.7km find the cave entrance.
The caves can be explored by booking in advance with Cody Cave Tours and it’s well worth it to see the world beneath the forest. There are tour options with different lengths and difficulties. We did the 5-hour “Explorer” tour and got geared up with headlamps and coveralls before exploring some of the deeper sections of the limestone caves.
Around the Loop
If you’re sticking to the hiking trail, stay left past the caves and continue to ascend through the forest. At 1.0km the trail will angle right and begin to flatten off. Look for interpretive signs along the forest. You’ll come across a creek that sinks down and disappears underground.
At 1.7km, the trail meets scenic Krao Creek and begin descend on the soft forest floor.
At 2.3km, meet up with the main trail again to complete the loop!