The Midwestern state of Wisconsin is renowned for its natural beauty, to the level where even timid travelers would want to go back. It boasts a coastline comprising of two of the five great lakes, densely forested hills, lush green farms, and scenic lakefront destinations. Look no further than Wisconsin if you are looking for a memorable adventure and nature escape. Explore its green meadows and farmlands that stretch as far as the eye can see, and marvel at its rich geographic diversity. Welcoming you are cave systems with subterranean tunnels, speleothems, stunning waterfalls, meandering passageways, and many more unique natural features! Now, if you are an avid spelunker, the caving adventures in Wisconsin, USA, listed below, will surely get you excited. Scroll down to find out more.
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1. Crystal Cave
Crystal Cave is perfectly suitable for family adventures. It features multiple levels of winding passages with trail guides and fences that descend below the earth - an approximate depth of 21 meters (69 feet). Ready yourself for some stunning geological features such as stalactites, stalagmites, and crystal formations. But don’t get too carried away if you see some bats. Crystal Cave is home to some rare species of bats and you will encounter them the deeper you go into the cave. There are also games hosted here, coupled with food and snacks on the picnic grounds. Souvenirs are also available, which are mostly a collection of jewelry, fossils, and educational products.
Crystal Cave
Address: W965 WI-29, Spring Valley, WI 54767, United States
Website: Crystal Cave
Opening hours: 9:30am - 5:30pm (daily)
Price: 15 USD
2. Eagle Cave
Eagle Cave features a cave system with four subterranean levels interconnected by narrow, winding passages. Stunning geological features such as stalactites and stalagmites can be seen, as well as some rocky formations, and bats! Soak your feet in the tiny river that flows within. What makes the place special is its program of activities. There are programs tailored to weekend vacation and day tours. Included within, aside from cave exploration, are fun-filled games held at the main assembly area, as well as the lodge, where explorers can mingle with one another.
Eagle Cave
Address: 16320 Cavern Ln, Blue River, WI 53518, United States
Website: Eagle Cave
Opening hours: Fri - Sun: 9am - 4pm; (closed from Mon - Thu)
Price: 16 USD
3. Cave of the Mounds
Cave of the Mounds is a limestone cave named for the two nearby hills, and it is accessible via US Highways 18 & 151 west of Madison. The cave is known for its large deposits of speleothems, as well as other geological formations, so prepare your eyes for the magnificent sights! You can also enjoy other cave-related activities such as searching for gemstones littering the ground or digging for fossils. Aside from the cave tour, above-ground activities such as hiking and cycling are hosted here, offering scenic views. Picnics are also possible on their picnic grounds.
Cave of the Mounds
Address: 2975 Cave of the Mounds Rd, Blue Mounds, WI 53517, United States
Website: Cave of the Mounds
Opening hours: 9am - 7pm (daily)
Price: 25 USD
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4. Rubens Cave
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Rubens Cave is as historic as it is beautiful. The story goes that old Ruby, a wolf hunter, came to the Albany area to hunt. He stayed at a cave along the bluff of the Little Sugar River, now known as Rubens Cave. This cave is public and is open to everyone. Visiting includes trekking a dense floodplain woods, through the green meadows full of wildlife, and then traversing some rocky outcrops. Welcoming you is the secluded Rubens Cave - a hallow cavern within the massive rocks. It is also within public hunting grounds so beware of hunters. Due to its quiet peculiar place, Rubens Cave is a perfect destination for intrepid adventurers.
Rubens Cave
Address: Sugar River Pkwy, Albany, WI 53502, United States
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
5. Caves in Cave Point County Park (from USD 40.0)
Cave Point County Park is a popular tourist spot known for its kayaking tours. Expect to see jaw-dropping underwater caves and wave-worn limestone cliffs. The plateau overlooking the county park is a great spot to go sightseeing, perfect for photographers and nature observers. Feel the breeze of warm air coming from the sea and immerse yourself in the sounds and sights of waves crashing against the cliffs, all in a soothing ambiance. Explore old caves and scenic waterfront views at Cave Point County Park with an expert guide and experience the best natural scenery Wisconsin has to offer.
Cave Point Kayak Tour
Duration: 2 hours
6. Caves in Ledge View Nature Center
Ledge View Nature Center is home to a cave system that’s ripe for exploration. The trails and passages are not so easily accessible, and they require some skill. But don’t fret, every tour is led by a cave expert. Expect to get dirty though. The main passageway can only be accessed by stairs and ladders. Subsequent passageways involve crawling and traversing tight spaces. And as you go deeper, the cave gradually starts to share its secrets. These are secrets in the form of geological designs that will surely make you more appreciative of nature. Explore the depths of Ledge View Nature Center and complete a thrilling, once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Caves in Ledge View Nature Center
Address: W2348 Short Rd, Chilton, WI 53014, United States
Website: Ledge View Nature Center
Opening hours: 8am - 4:30pm (daily)
Price: 8 USD
7. Bayfield Peninsula Sea Caves
Bayfield Peninsula Sea Caves is another popular tourist attraction at Lake Superior. During the dry and hot season, you can explore the caves from the lake in a kayak. Welcoming you are superb geological formations of rocks and stone carved by time. And as you go further inside the cave system, the scene gets more surreal, that is, a feeling of gratitude to nature. During the winter season, the lake becomes frozen so anyone can walk over a vast space of frozen lakes going to the frozen sea caves.
Bayfield Peninsula Sea Caves
Address: Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, 415 Washington Ave, Bayfield, WI 54814, United States
Website: Bayfield Peninsula Sea Caves
Opening hours: 8am - 4:30pm (daily)
Price: 8 USD
An adventure in Wisconsin
Exploring the caves of Wisconsin will surely make you connect better with nature. The caving adventures listed above are nature escapes unlike any other. Be closer to nature by checking out the less-explored creative works of nature with your own eyes. Expect to get dirty and prepare yourself for the sights and sounds of the places less traveled.
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