Popular Utah Caves
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Timpanogos Cave
Timpanogos Cave National Monument is one of the most popular caves in Utah. Three spectacularly decorated caverns feature stalactites, stalagmites, helictites, draperies, calcite crusts and frostwork, just to name a few. The cave sits atop a steep, paved trail in American Fork Canyon in Utah’s Wasatch Range. Guests must be part of a guided tour to explore this extensive cave system.
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Moqui Cave
Part cave, part museum, Moqui Cave is a quirky and unforgettable destination. The large cavern was bought and converted into a museum in 1951. Three large chambers house the Chamberlain family’s eccentric art collection and fascinating history, while also showcasing geological rarities found throughout Southern Utah. Appealing to cavers and beyond, Moqui Cave is truly a one-of-a-kind destination.
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Mossy Cave
A short stroll into the reddish pinnacles of Bryce Canyon ends at a mossy, seeping cave, offering a smaller-scale sampler of Bryce grandeur. Consider visiting before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. to avoid peak visitation, as Mossy Cave is an extremely popular trail in summer. Parking and camping are restricted in this area to avoid damage to (or from) the delicate rock formations.
More Caves in Utah
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Bloomington Cave
This cave was formed by tectonic shifts in the limestone mountains of St. George. Narrow passageways wind through multiple cavernous levels. Previous caving experience is recommended, and an experienced group leader is required. Visitors are also required to obtain a permit to enter Bloomington Cave, which is available for free at the St. George BLM Field Office.
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Mammoth Cave
Explore Mammoth Cave, one of Utah’s largest lava tubes, near Duck Creek Village in southwestern Utah. This gaping three-chamber cave is open year round, although some areas are restricted to protect local bat populations. While you’re in the area, stop by the Ice Cave nearby to see year-round icicles.
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Meadow Lava Tubes
This large system of lava tubes in Central Utah is open to the public, and everyone in the family will enjoy exploring the cave’s twists and turns. Make sure to bring a headlamp or flashlight and good hiking shoes. A popular itinerary addition is the Meadow Hot Springs, just a short drive away.
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Wind Caves
The Wind Caves, sometimes called the Witches’ Castle, sit atop a steep, three-mile round-trip hiking trail in Logan. Contrary to its name, the wind caves were formed by water erosion. Hikers should bring plenty of water on this hike during the summertime, and prepare to enjoy some of Northern Utah’s best panoramic views, especially among autumn foliage.
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Belly of the Dragon
Just 20 miles easy of Zion National Park, The Belly of the Dragon Cave/Tunnel was originally a water culvert under Highway 89. This manmade tunnel/cave walk is only 0.5 miles long, making it a great family-friendly adventure if you're heading to Zion or Bryce Canyon.
Never go caving alone. A group of 3-10 people is recommended. Make sure a friend or family member knows your plan, and when you’re expected to return home.
When caving, remember to carry multiple light sources secured to yourself or your pack.
Spelunking Bloomington Cave
A massive tectonic cave system located just 15 miles outside of St. George makes Bloomington Cave bucket list worthy. Visit Utah for spelunking and cave exploration.
Discover More
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A Hike to Timpanogos Cave
A mile-and-a-half hike to the entrance to the cave, you run your hand over tiny fossilized shells and coral embedded in the smooth Deseret limestone cliff. It’s hard to imagine that at 6,730 feet above sea level, you’re standing on an ancient shoreline. Inside the caverns, things get really interesting.
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Canyonlands Cave Spring Hike
If you’re in the Needles area of Canyonlands National Park and have an extra hour, the Cave Spring hike is a pleasant and thoughtful way to spend it. The trailhead is conveniently located, and this short hike offers lots of diversity. Interpretive signs along the trail identify many of the high desert’s most common plant species.
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Dinosaur National Monument Family Hiking Guide
Hiking is a great way to experience Dinosaur National Monument’s amazing geology and rock art. The monument contains several easy to moderate day hikes to suit just about everyone, including families with small children.
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Eating Up Mount Timpanogos
Learn about the Utah farms near Mt. Timpanogos that produce luscious lettuce and artisan cheese. Make your own plans to “eat up” Mt. Timpanogos!
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Exploring Mule Canyon: House on Fire and Cave Tower
Driving the up the dusty, terracotta-colored road toward Mule Canyon in Cedar Mesa, you get a sense that this is a special place, though you might not be able to put a finger on why.
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How To Stay Safe in the Outdoors
Know how to stay safe and informed during your Utah trip and who is helping when you get into trouble.
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Rockhounding in Utah
Amateur and professional rock and fossil hunters in Utah enjoy some of the best rockhounding sites in the country. BLM and National Forest lands cover a large percentage of the state and permit free rockhounding in many areas. Be mindful of collecting rules. By treating Utah’s rockhounding sites with care, we can help preserve them for many future generations of rock enthusiasts.
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Searching for Dinosaur Bones in Capitol Reef Country
The Hanksville-Burpee Dinosaur Quarry dates back to the Jurassic Period and is approximately 150 feet wide by 600 feet long. Hundreds of dinosaur bones have been discovered here, including those of the Stegosaurus, Brontosaurus and Brachiosaurus.
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Spelunking Bloomington Cave
A massive tectonic cave system located just 15 miles outside of St. George makes Bloomington Cave bucket list worthy. Visit Utah for spelunking and cave exploration.
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Weaving Through Granite Mazes in the Mineral Mountains of Beaver County
The Mineral Mountains, one of Utah’s most magnificent but least known natural wonders, offer superb hikes through a rugged granite wonderland of cliffs, domes and valleys. Backcountry trails beckon with the chance to discover precious gemstones, climbing routes and airy summits with expansive views across southwestern Utah.
