Top 20 Caves in Arizona
Caves in Arizona offer a variety of geological formations and historical significance. The state features diverse underground environments, from actively growing limestone caves to ancient dry caverns and volcanic lava tubes. These natural features provide opportunities for exploration and observation of unique rock structures. Arizona's caves are distributed across different regions, reflecting varied geological processes.
Best caves in Arizona
- The most popular caves is Subway Cave and Ruins β Boynton Canyon, a cave that features ancient ruins and unique rock formations. Visitors can explore the cave and view well-preserved ruins, though touching them is not permitted.
- Another must-see spot is Soldier Pass Cave, a cave known for its secluded location and unique formations. Access to this cave is via a side-trail from the main Soldier Pass trail, offering a distinct underground experience.
- Visitors also love Hidden Valley Tunnel, a cave consisting of intricately intertwined boulders. This natural formation provides opportunities for photography and features ancient Hohokam petroglyphs.
- Arizona is known for "living" limestone caves, ancient dry caverns, and lava tubes. These include Kartchner Caverns with its active formations, Colossal Cave with its extensive dry passages, and Lava River Cave, a volcanic formation.
- The caves in Arizona are appreciated by the komoot community. With more than 40 upvotes and over 40 photos, these routes offer diverse underground experiences.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
Subway Cave and Ruins β Boynton Canyon
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Soldier Pass Cave
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Hidden Valley Tunnel
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Wave Cave
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Birthing Cave
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Wind Cave Trail
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Grand Canyon Caverns
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Lava River Cave
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Peppersauce Cave
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Mooney Fall β descent to the falls
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Tips from the Community
There are two ways to get up to the Subway Cave: one is easier, but goes along a narrow cliff. The more direct approach is more technical, going up the direct slope, but also less scary if you're not good with heights.
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The Subway Cave is a remarkable slot-like natural rock formation and is often considered a "secret spot" due to its location; however, you will likely encounter plenty of other visitors here. Reaching this location requires a short scramble, but the breathtaking views of the surrounding red rock landscape make it well worth the effort.
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The Lava River Cave is a massive lava tube deep within the Coconino National Forest. You can access and explore the cave on your own. Expect some scrambling over big boulders, some ducking in lower sections and cool temperatures within the cave. Bring at least two sources of light as it it pitch dark and you cannot find you way out of the tunnels without light. The tunnel has a length of almost a mile! The cave was discovered in 1915.
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In the middle of nowhere along the old Route 66, you arrive at the Grand Canyon Caverns. As you would expect, you can book a tour to explore the caverns. Besides this underground adventure, the location itself is nice for a stroll along oldtimer cars, old fire trucks and a charming diner.
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In the middle of nowhere along the old Route 66, you arrive at the Grand Canyon Caverns. As you would expect, you can book a tour to explore the caverns. Besides this underground adventure, the location itself is nice for a stroll along oldtimer cars, old fire trucks and a charming diner.
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NOT an easy trail. Definitely intermediate to hard level trail. Still, Wave Cave is still a really unique spot with a large rock that resembles a wave. Me and a friend took a much needed nap under that wave before making our trek down. A must see if you are an intermediate to experienced hiker.
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Soldier Pass Cave is a favorite sight among the many in Sedona due to its secludedness and uniqueness. The only way to access this cave is via a small side-trail from the main Soldier Pass trail. Please stick to the obvious trails and trampled areas, and do not create trails and shortcuts of your own, as this is a very fragile area.
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While this theory is not confirmed, it is generally believed that indigenous Hopi women would come to this cave to give birth. This cave is known for its large, diamond-shaped opening and dangerously slick walls and floor.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of caves can be found in Arizona?
Arizona features a diverse range of caves, including 'living' limestone caves like Kartchner Caverns, ancient dry caverns such as Colossal Cave Mountain Park and Grand Canyon Caverns, and volcanic lava tubes like Lava River Cave. Each type offers distinct geological formations and exploration experiences.
What are some unique caves to explore in Arizona?
Beyond the well-known ones, you can explore Subway Cave and Ruins β Boynton Canyon, which features ancient ruins. Another unique spot is Soldier Pass Cave, known for its secluded location and distinct formations. For a different experience, Hidden Valley Tunnel offers intricately intertwined boulders and ancient Hohokam petroglyphs.
Are there family-friendly or accessible caves in Arizona?
Yes, some caves cater to families and offer accessibility. For instance, Grand Canyon Caverns provides an accessible 'Short Tour' via an exploration elevator. Kartchner Caverns State Park also offers ADA-accessible tours. Colossal Cave Mountain Park, while a dry cave, has guided tours suitable for various ages.
What is the typical difficulty level for exploring caves in Arizona?
Difficulty varies significantly. Some caves like Grand Canyon Caverns offer easy, guided tours. Others, such as Subway Cave and Ruins β Boynton Canyon and Soldier Pass Cave, are considered challenging due to their access trails or internal terrain. Lava River Cave involves self-guided exploration over an uneven, boulder-strewn floor, requiring some scrambling.
When is the best time to visit Arizona's caves, and are they open year-round?
Many of Arizona's commercial caves, like Kartchner Caverns, Colossal Cave, and Grand Canyon Caverns, maintain a consistent temperature of around 70Β°F (21Β°C) year-round, making them suitable for visits in any season. However, Lava River Cave near Flagstaff closes seasonally to protect bat habitats, and timed entry reservations might be required during its operating seasons. Always check specific cave operating hours before planning your trip.
What should I wear and bring when visiting Arizona caves?
For caves with consistent temperatures like Kartchner Caverns or Colossal Cave, comfortable walking shoes and light layers are usually sufficient. For colder caves like Lava River Cave (around 42Β°F or 5Β°C), warm clothing, sturdy footwear, and at least two reliable light sources (headlamps are ideal) are essential due to the dark and uneven terrain. Photography is often restricted in delicate 'living' caves to protect formations.
Do Arizona's caves have historical significance?
Absolutely. Colossal Cave Mountain Park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has legends of train robbers. Subway Cave and Ruins β Boynton Canyon features ancient ruins, and Hidden Valley Tunnel showcases ancient Hohokam petroglyphs. Grand Canyon Caverns has also yielded remains of Ice Age creatures and archaeological artifacts.
What unique natural features can I expect to see in Arizona's caves?
Arizona's caves boast impressive geological formations. Kartchner Caverns is famous for its actively growing speleothems, including massive columns and long 'soda straw' stalactites. Colossal Cave features a variety of formations like stalactites, stalagmites, and helictites. Lava River Cave, a volcanic tube, displays unique lavacicles. Grand Canyon Caverns, being dry, showcases vast rock formations.
What other outdoor activities can I find near Arizona's caves?
Many cave locations offer additional outdoor recreation. Colossal Cave Mountain Park, for example, provides extensive hiking and biking trails, horseback riding, and camping. The areas around caves often feature opportunities for hiking, such as the easy hikes in Arizona or more challenging mountain hikes. You can also find MTB trails in the region.
Are permits required to visit caves in Arizona?
For commercial caves like Kartchner Caverns, Colossal Cave, and Grand Canyon Caverns, guided tours are typically ticketed, serving as your entry. For natural caves on state trust land, such as Wave Cave, a permit for entry might be required. Always check the specific regulations for the cave you plan to visit.
Can I explore caves on my own, or are guided tours necessary?
It depends on the cave. Commercial caves like Kartchner Caverns, Colossal Cave, and Grand Canyon Caverns primarily offer guided tours for safety and preservation. However, Lava River Cave allows for self-guided exploration, provided you are prepared with appropriate gear and knowledge. Some natural caves, like Subway Cave and Ruins β Boynton Canyon, are accessible via hiking trails for self-exploration.
What amenities are available near Arizona's major caves?
Major cave attractions often have amenities. Grand Canyon Caverns offers a motel, gift shop, and RV park, with a unique underground dining experience. Kartchner Caverns State Park includes a Discovery Center, hiking trails, and camping. Colossal Cave Mountain Park features a petting zoo, butterfly garden, and picnic areas, along with museums. Nearby towns also provide various accommodation and dining options.
Most popular routes in Arizona
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