Brazilian Free-Tailed Bats were first documented at the Orient Mine in 1967. For nearly 50 years, they have returned and called the ‘Glory Hole’ home from mid-June until mid-September. At the height of bat season, it’s estimated that nearly 250,000 bats fly out of the mine and play a vital role in controlling insect populations. This mostly male migration begins in South America and gains in numbers as they travel north.

Affectionately known as the hike to the Bat Cave, thousands of visitors have joined us on the nearly two mile hike up to the Orient Mine to witness the nightly outflight.

This hike is open to the public, and we kindly request that all guests use the Black Canyon Trailhead to access the mine. The road to this trailhead is primitive and unmaintained, and it may not be passable without a high-clearance vehicle. Overnight camping is prohibited, and no fires, cooking, or grill use is allowed. It generally takes about an hour, but plan to stop and study the interpretive signs along the way.

Overnight guests at Valley View Hotsprings are welcome to take the nearly two-mile hike to the Glory Hole to observe the bats outflight at dusk.  The hike is just under two miles, with a steep incline along the final quarter mile. It generally takes about an hour, but plan to stop and read the interpretive signs along the way. The sun dips behind the mountains and weather conditions can change rapidly. Please dress appropriately, hydrate well, and bring a light to help guide your way down the mountain.