Cave of the Mounds

About this spectacle

Cave of the Mounds is a National Natural Landmark tucked beneath the rolling hills of southern Wisconsin. Visitors descend into a world of colorful stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones, and cave coral, all illuminated along a guided walking tour. The cave maintains a constant cool temperature year-round, offering a striking contrast to summer heat or winter chill above ground. The formations range from delicate translucent soda straws to massive columns built over hundreds of thousands of years. Sound is muffled and intimate underground, with only the occasional drip of mineral-rich water punctuating the guide's narration. The relatively compact layout means the entire tour covers a manageable distance, making it accessible to a broad range of visitors. The visual variety of mineral colors — whites, oranges, and deep reds — creates strong photographic opportunities at almost every turn.

When to go

Jan — Dec, peak Jun — Aug

Getting there

Nearest airport: MSN. Nearest city: Madison.

Booking options

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