The Upana Caves are situated 17 km north west of Gold River on the road that leads to the community of Tahsis.  There has been logging in the area and as part of the clean up operation, an number of groups have cooperated in making the caves readily accessible to the public.  The caves have been left in their natural state but trails have been groomed , stair ways and bridges have been  built and benches have even been provided at view points like the spot overlooking the Upana Falls which is pictured to your left.
 
 

As you enter Gold River, you will see the Tourism B.C. Office on your right.  Stop there for a free brochure that tells you about the caves and directs you on a walking tour through them.  From the Tourist center you can see the town's only shopping mall.  If you go to Joe's Hardware Store which is situated in that mall you can rent a helmet with the attached lantern.  You should always be equipped with two light sources when entering the caves.  These caves are in their natural state, there are no walkways or or artificial light provided.  The caves are cold and damp even on the warmest summer days so warm clothing is essential if you wish  to go exploring.

The road past Gold River is a logging road but at least up to the Upana Caves I found it fairly well maintained.  You can do this stretch in a conventional sedan though I hear that the road further on is rougher and you probably should not try it unless you have a truck of utility vehicle.  The turn off to the caves is well marked and they are only a short distance from the road.  There is a parking lot and then it is just a very short walk to the beginning of the trail.

The beginning of the trail.

The Upana Caves are comprised of several caves within one group.  There are 15 known entrances.  The combined lenth of the passages is approximately 1,500 feet.  The caves vary in size from single rooms to branching passages of considerable length.  If you are doing the self directed tour stay on the designated trails.  For a more extensive exploration of the caves ask the staff at the tourist information office for the names of some local guides.

One of the smaller caves.

The main cave.