Minnesota isn’t the first state to come to mind when you think about caves, but the combination of rocks, sediment, and moving water has created some incredible natural caves across the state, a few of which are open to the public and available for tours.
Many of the caves first grew along the tributaries of the Mississippi River and are located in the Twin Cities area and the state’s Southeast corner. You’ll find one of the best caves, Mystery Cave, along the southern border of the state.
If you find yourself visiting the Land of 10,000 Lakes, consider adding a cave tour or two to your itinerary. Here are some of the coolest caves in Minnesota to discover and visit during your vacation.
The Best Caves in Minnesota to Explore
1. Niagara Cave
Address: 29842 Co Rd 30, Harmony, MN 55939
Like other caves throughout Southern Minnesota, Niagara Cave is a limestone cave. Located in Harmony, Minnesota, the cave travels about 200 feet into the ground.
Niagara Cave is a few hours outside the Twin Cities. Some of the cool features you’ll see include a 60-foot waterfall, fossils, and rock formations growing from the ceiling and floor, called stalactites and stalagmites.
Since you’ll likely fly into Minnesota if you’re from out of state, you may want to rent a vacation home like this dreamy summer escape. Harmony is about an hour from Rochester, which means it makes for a great day trip, too.
See Related: Best Tours in Minnesota
2. Mystery Cave
Address: 21071 County Rd 118, Preston, MN 55965
Mystery Cave is a notable tourist attraction in Minnesota as it’s the longest cave in the state. The cave was formed between 500,000 and 1,000,000 years ago by moving water and eroding sediments.
Inside the cave itself, the temperature is a consistent 48 degrees. You’ll want to bring a hoodie or sweater if you get cold easily!
The Forestville Mystery Cave State Park is a good spot to spend the day. When you’ve finished your cave tour, walk through the 19th-century village on site.
See Related: Best State Parks in Minnesota to Visit (+ Map)
3. Soudan Underground Mine
Address: 1302 McKinley Park Rd, Soudan, MN 55782
Located just south of Lake Vermillion, Soudan Underground Mine State Park houses Soudan Underground Mine. The mine was the first iron ore mine in the state when it…
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