Colorado is home to some of the most breathtaking caves and caverns in the country, offering a perfect mix of adventure and natural beauty. Whether you're a seasoned spelunker or a beginner looking for an exciting day out, these caves in Colorado have something for everyone.
From mysterious underground rivers to colorful rock formations, the state’s caves provide unique experiences for visitors. Many of these caves are open for year-round exploration, while others require a bit of extra preparation and skill. Get ready to dive into some of the most fascinating caves in Colorado!
6 Best Caves in Colorado
Cave of the Winds – Manitou Springs
Cave of the Winds, located at the base of Pikes Peak in Manitou Springs, is a popular show cave known for its stunning rock formations and exciting tours. Visitors can choose from the Cave Discovery Tour, which explores nearly a mile of caverns, or the more adventurous Lantern Tour, where you carry your own lantern and hear spooky ghost stories.
In addition to the cave, the park offers thrilling activities like ziplining and the Terror-Dactyl ride, making it a great destination for both nature lovers and thrill-seekers.
Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park – Glenwood Springs
Glenwood Caverns is home to Colorado’s largest show cave and offers an unforgettable underground experience. Visitors can explore the caverns on a walking tour or choose the Wild Tour, which requires crawling through narrow, dark passageways.
Outside the cave, the Adventure Park offers exciting activities such as the world’s highest roller coaster, a giant canyon swing, and an alpine coaster, providing something for every kind of adventurer.
Fulford Cave – Eagle
For experienced cavers, Fulford Cave in Eagle is a must-see destination. This cave, first recorded in 1874, offers a challenging exploration experience with its tight spaces and hidden nooks. Visitors need to follow strict decontamination procedures to protect local bat populations from White Nose Syndrome.
Fulford Cave is open from mid-April to mid-October, and a permit is required for entry, making it an exclusive adventure for those seeking a true spelunking challenge.
Spring Cave – Meeker
Located in the South Fork River Valley near Meeker, Spring Cave is an expansive, little-explored cave system shaped by an underground river. Spelunkers brave enough to explore the cave will encounter damp conditions, with the river sometimes rising near the cave entrance.
Spring Cave is open to experienced explorers from mid-April to mid-August, but it’s important to check weather conditions, as flash floods can make it dangerous. It’s also home to bats that need protection, so visitors must follow strict decontamination procedures.
Grottos Trail to Ice Caves – Aspen
The Grottos Trail in Aspen is a beautiful hike that passes waterfalls and grottos, with ice formations filling the caves during the winter months. It’s a popular destination year-round, as the trail is easy to navigate and offers a unique winter experience.
In the summer, visitors can enjoy the cool water and stunning scenery, while winter visitors will find themselves surrounded by snow-covered grottos and ice caves. The trail is also dog-friendly, making it a great family outing.
Yampah Spa & Salon – Glenwood Springs
For a more relaxing cave experience, Yampah Spa & Salon in Glenwood Springs offers a unique underground experience with natural vapor caves. These hot mineral steam caves, heated by the area’s hot springs, are the only known vapor caves in North America.
The Ute Indians used these caves for rejuvenation, and today visitors can enjoy the relaxing benefits of steam therapy. The temperature inside the caves averages 110°F to 112°F, providing the perfect environment for unwinding. The spa also offers additional wellness services like massages, facials, and private hot baths.
Essential Preparation Tips for Cave Exploration
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Research the cave in advance – Look into the cave’s location, access rules, permit needs, and entry times to avoid surprises when you arrive.
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Check the weather forecast – Sudden rain or storms can cause dangerous flooding inside caves, especially those near rivers or valleys.
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Wear proper gear – Always bring a helmet with a mounted headlamp, gloves, and shoes with strong grip to handle uneven, slippery surfaces.
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Bring backup supplies – Carry extra headlamp batteries, water, energy-rich snacks, a first aid kit, and a physical map for safety.
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Know the cave’s regulations – Read and follow posted guidelines; some caves have protected zones or require quiet to protect sensitive species.
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Decontaminate your gear – Clean and dry your clothing and equipment to prevent spreading White Nose Syndrome to bat colonies.
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Never go caving alone – Going with a group or at least one partner adds a layer of safety in case someone gets hurt or disoriented.
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Tell someone your plan – Share your full itinerary, including the cave name, route, and estimated return time, with a trusted person.
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Stay on marked paths – Straying from trails increases the risk of getting lost and damaging fragile cave formations that took centuries to form.
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Leave no trace – Pack out everything you bring in, avoid touching walls or formations, and respect the quiet, dark ecosystem inside the cave.
Key Safety Guidelines for Cave Exploration
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Use proper lighting – Always bring a headlamp or flashlight, and carry extra batteries in case your primary light fails.
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Stay on marked trails – Avoid wandering off-path to reduce the risk of getting lost, especially in large or commercial caves like Glenwood Caverns or Cave of the Winds.
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Watch your step in rugged caves – In places like Fulford Cave, be ready to crawl and move cautiously through tight, rocky spaces.
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Dress for the conditions – Wear warm layers or a jacket, as most caves stay cool year-round—some around 52°F even in summer.
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Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes – Wet or uneven ground is common in caves, and proper footwear helps prevent slips and falls.
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Follow posted warnings and rules – Pay attention to signs or instructions from park staff, especially in caves with steep drops or unstable areas.
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Never go caving alone – Always explore with a partner or group so help is available in case of injury or disorientation.
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Know your limits – If a cave section looks too narrow, steep, or risky, it’s okay to turn back and avoid injury.
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Bring a basic first aid kit – Small injuries like scrapes or bruises are common, so it's smart to carry a few medical essentials.
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Keep calm in tight spaces – Stay composed and breathe slowly if you start to feel anxious in confined areas—it helps you think clearly and stay safe.
Why You Should Explore Caves with a Tour Guide
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Stay safe with expert guidance – Tour guides know the cave layout well and help visitors navigate tricky or confusing passageways safely.
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Learn as you explore – Guides share interesting facts about the cave’s history, geology, and wildlife, making the trip more meaningful.
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Access hard-to-reach areas – Some sections of caves, like those in Glenwood Caverns or Cave of the Winds, are only open during guided tours.
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Receive a full safety briefing – Guided tours include instructions on what to expect, what to wear, and how to behave inside the cave.
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Respond to emergencies quickly – Tour guides are trained to handle injuries, spot hazards, and take action if something goes wrong.
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Avoid getting lost – With a guide leading the way, you don’t have to worry about losing your direction or missing exit routes.
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Respect cave ecosystems – Guides remind visitors to keep noise down, avoid touching formations, and protect the cave’s fragile environment.
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Great for beginners and families – If you're new to caving or traveling with kids, a guide ensures the experience stays safe and fun.
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Gain confidence for future trips – Joining a tour can help you build basic skills and awareness before exploring caves on your own.
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Enjoy the experience stress-free – With a guide handling logistics and safety, you’re free to take in the sights and enjoy the adventure fully.
Conclusion: Uncover the Hidden of Caves in Colorado
Exploring caves in Colorado offers a unique opportunity to discover the state's stunning underground landscapes and rich history. Whether you're seeking a thrilling adventure through narrow passages or a relaxing experience in mineral-rich steam caves, Colorado's diverse cave system has something for everyone.
From the family-friendly tours at Glenwood Caverns to the rejuvenating mineral baths at Yampah Spa, there's no shortage of ways to explore and enjoy these natural wonders. So, gather your gear, plan your trip, and get ready to uncover the hidden gems of caves in Colorado.
