6 Caving Adventures In Minnesota, USA

caving in minnesota
Stephen
Stephen 
Updated
| 3 min read

Minnesota is an attractive destination in the United States that is popularly known as “Land of 10,000 Lakes” because it’s blessed with that many lakes. Intriguingly, the majestic Mississippi River originates from one of these beautiful lakes: Lake Itasca. Apart from these, there is also a variety of magnificent attractions such as the thrilling Duluth and the picturesque Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, among others. It is also an art-centric state, with several galleries and museums. If that’s not enough to attract you, the iconic caves here are definitely worth exploring. Planning a visit soon? Secure your accommodations by checking out some hotels or cabin rentals with a hot tub in Minnesota. Then read on to find out more about caving adventures in Minnesota, USA.

1. Mystery Cave State Park

An underground pool
Source: Photo by user jnaithani used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Located along County Road in Minnesota is Mystery Cave, a magical scenery nestled in the thicket of Forestville. Both local and international tourists visit Forestville Mystery Cave State Park for camping, hiking, and most importantly, sightseeing. It is a good place to bring your family for a picnic, as the park has lovely picnic spots. This is the longest cave in Minnesota, spread over 13 miles (20.92 km) of land. It has been recognized by the National Register of Historic Places. What makes this place even more attractive to tourists is the charming geographical features formed above and below the cave. During the summer, people come to cool off inside.

Mystery Cave State Park

Address: 21071 County Rd 118, Preston, MN 55965, United States

Opening hours: 8am - 10pm (daily)

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2. Niagara Cave

Niagara Cave
Source: Photo by user Bruce Guenter used under CC BY 2.0

Harmony, Minnesota has one of the most magical attractions in the state, boasting an unrivaled underground beauty: the Niagara Cave. Although it was formed through natural means, this cave is owned and operated by a family. You’ll find lovely picnic areas and a nice playground where you can have fun and bond with your family. You don’t need to be a scientist to fall in love with this place. There are many wonderful features that will mesmerize you. Apart from being about 200 feet (60.69 meters) deep, the cave features gorgeous stalactites and stalagmites, an underground stream, fossils, and an eye-catching, 60-foot (18.29 meters) waterfall.

Niagara Cave

Address: 29842 Co Hwy 30, Harmony, MN 55939, United States

Website: Niagara Cave

Opening hours: Tue: 24 hours; Wed: 12pm - 12:02am (closed from Thu - Mon)

Price: from 10.95 USD

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3. Wabasha Street Caves

WabashaStreetCaves
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Jonathunder used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Perched on the southern shores of the Mississippi River, Wabasha Street Caves is an iconic event space built inside sandstone caves. This place offers a unique experience for tourists and locals who come here to mingle with other people. You can bring your loved ones here on Thursday nights to enjoy a romantic “Swing Night” with live bands. There are well-informed tour guides to ensure you enjoy an insightful exploration. They also serve finger-licking meals in case you feel like dining. If you’re planning a party or a wedding, this is the perfect venue.

Wabasha Street Caves

Address: 215 Wabasha St S, St Paul, MN 55107, United States

Website: Wabasha Street Caves

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4. Carver’s Cave

Carvers Cave
Source: Photo by user Minnesota Histori... used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Carver’s Cave is one of the most iconic historical landmarks in Minnesota. If you love history, this place should be on top of your must-visit list. Perched at the base of Daytona’s Bluff in Saint Paul, close to the Mississippi River, this cave has served different purposes over the years. It was once a meeting and a dwelling place for Dakota Indians. That’s why they even named the cave Wakan Tipi. But due to its breathtaking features, it was viewed by the early European settlers and other immigrants as a tourist attraction.

Carver’s Cave

Address: 10 Mounds Blvd, St Paul, MN 55106, United States

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5. Schieks Cave

Schieks Cave
Source: Pixabay

Are you looking for an adventurous outdoor activity to do around Minnesota? Explore the underground world and its mesmerizing features by taking a tour of Schieks Cave. This mysterious cave is one of the popular tourist attractions in Minneapolis. It has even earned a number of names over the years, such as Loop Cave, Manhole Cave, and Farmers and Mechanics Bank Cave, among others. It is also the largest natural cave found about 74 feet (22.86 meters) below downtown Minneapolis. Enjoy the wonderful views of the lovely, pyramid-like piers that provide support to the limestone roof.

Schieks Cave

Address: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States

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6. Robinson's Ice Cave

Behind the falls. Minnehaha Falls frozen in winter, Minneapolis, Minnesota, Minnehaha Falls in Minneapolis, Minnesota
Source: Photo by user Lorie Shaull used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Although the winter season is known to come with a freezing atmosphere, it also brings things like ice, which in turn forms some charming natural features. During this season, the state of Minnesota is always flowing with tourists from all over the world who come to enjoy an exciting nature trip. Sandstone, Minnesota is a tourist hotspot because of events like the Ice Festival, but more importantly, due to Robinson’s Ice Cave. Enjoy a breathtaking experience as you explore the lovely hiking trails and the unique features formed by ice. You can also try out ice climbing if you’re not scared of heights.

Robinson's Ice Cave

Address: Sandstone, MN 55072, United States

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Explore the underground realm of Minnesota

Be it summer or winter, you will always find something interesting in Minnesota that makes it such an enticing vacation destination. For anyone looking to enjoy an outdoor adventure, there’s no better way than to explore the different caves and seeing first-hand the mesmerizing beauty of the underground realm.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Stephen is an avid content writer with a passion for adventure. He enjoys traveling and has visited several countries around the world. So far, South Africa stands out as his most exciting...Read more

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