This Unique Cave Park In Arizona Offers Epic Adventures Both Above And Below The Surface
By Katie Lawrence|Published October 24, 2022
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
There are several caves in Arizona – both remote and commercial — that offer a fascinating glimpse into the subterranean world that lies beneath our feet. One of these is Colossal Mountain Cave Park near Tucson, a unique destination with just as many activities above ground as below. In fact, this park may be home to the best hike near Tucson, Arizona. After your cave tour, enjoy a meal, and camp under the stars for a memorable adventure.
A mere 15 miles southeast of Tucson, Colossal Cave Mountain Park is best known for its extensive underground cavern system that attracts thousands of visitors each year.
There are two different cave tours visitors can embark on: Classic and Ladder. On the Classic Tour, which is the most popular of the two, you will embark on a half-mile guided walk that descends six stories and showcases an array of breathtaking cave formations.
If you're looking for a bit more adventure, the Ladder Tour lets you squeeze through narrow passageways, scramble over jagged rocks, and unleash your inner spelunker, all while learning the fascinating history of the cave.
Colossal Cave has more to offer than the subterranean world from which its name is derived. The park also boasts a number of aboveground activities, so you can keep the fun going all day long — and even beyond that.
Spanning 2,400 acres, the park boasts a variety of multi-use trails that hikers, bikers, and horseback riders can all enjoy. Trails range in length from just under a mile to three miles, and the striking Sonoran Desert scenery makes every step unforgettable.
Don't forget to stop by the gift shop on your way out to pick up some souvenirs. You'll see everything from handmade Native American jewelry to kitschy t-shirts, so there's something for everyone.
If you aren't quite ready to say goodbye to the park when the day draws to a close, you don't have to! There is a spacious, 30-site campground that accommodates tents, RVs, and horse trailers, so you can spend a memorable night under the stars.
Have you ever been to Colossal Cave? If so, did you partake in any of the aboveground activities? Tell us all about your experience in the comments! Don’t forget to check out our previous article for a nearby national park where over two million Saguaro cacti grow wild.
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