6 caves you can visit in Colorado

Though Colorado might not be well-known for its caves, there are a few caves in Colorado that are open to the public and worth checking out. Here’s a list of 6 you’re sure to love.

EDITOR’S NOTE: We picked these caves because they’re accessible and lower risk to visit. It’s possible to find a number of other caves around the state, though many of these require caving experience, a permit, and additional gear to safely explore. Caving can be deadly. Proceed with caution.

Editor's Note II: COVID-19-related changes and restrictions may be in place at some of these destinations. Check with official websites prior to planning your visit.

1. Rifle Ice Caves

Found 30 minutes outside of Rifle, the Ice Caves at Rifle Mountain Park are an epic winter destination. View frozen falls and colorful ice as you roam this unique spot. See more details here.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Ice is slippery. Bring your traction.

2. Cave of the Winds

Home to the Cave of the Winds Mountain Adventure Park, this destination’s namesake caverns can’t be skipped. A number of tours are available, including a Discovery Tour, a Lantern Tour, and Caving 101, as well as a number of adrenaline-inducing experiences, including a canyon drop, a high ropes course, and a via ferrata. Reserve a spot here.

3. Glenwood Caverns

Another cave system that’s also home to an adventure park, Glenwood Caverns in Glenwood Springs, Colorado is an awesome place to spend a half-day for all ages. You’ll find caverns to explore, along with a roller coaster, an alpine coaster, a canyon swing, a mine drop, and more. Find more details here.

4. Vapor Caves

Found a few minutes away from Glenwood Caverns are the Vapor Caves at Yampah Spa. Consisting of three underground rock cambers, hot mineral waters flow through the cave floors to create a natural geothermal steam bath. Head to this destination for one of the most relaxing experiences in the state. Find details here.

5. Orient Mine

Approach the “Glory Hole” of Orient Mine as dusk starts to hit to witness 250,000 bats exiting this giant opening in unison. This isn’t an underground cavern you can explore, but it’s one of the most unique experiences with nature that you can have in the state. Find more details here.

6. Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine

Though not a natural cave, the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine tour will drop you 1,000 feet into the ground down a vertical gold mine shaft. See gold veins in their natural state and learn about Colorado’s rich mining past. Find more details here.

EDITOR’S NOTE: We picked these caves because they’re accessible and lower risk to visit. It’s possible to find a number of other caves around the state, though many of these require caving experience, a permit, and additional gear to safely explore. Caving can be deadly. Proceed with caution.