The cave contains about 3.5 miles (5.6 km) of mapped passageways, and was discovered by Soloman Lick in 1879. There is a story that a western gold robbery resulted in the gold being 'stored' in the cave, and there is also a story that the robbers got away from the sheriff in one of the many side shafts. It was once the home the ancient Hohokam Indians, and has sheltered people for over a thousand years. Aside from the flora and fauna, visitors also praised the knowledgeable docents.This cave just east of Tucson is a popular tourist attraction. Reviewers also advised stopping by in the morning or near closing as that's when the animals are most active. Just make sure you come prepared: bring a refillable water bottle for the numerous fill stations, wear appropriate walking shoes, sun protection and sunscreen (though, if you forget your sunscreen, there are dispensers in the on-site bathrooms). Recent visitors enjoyed their time at the museum and highly recommended future travelers set aside a few hours to explore the attraction's grounds and educational exhibits. Strolling along the museum's 2 miles of hiking trails, visitors get acquainted with the desert landscape via animal exhibits that mingle with native plants. And if you feel hungry after your leisurely hike, you can enjoy a meal at one of the museum's three eateries, all of which have great views of the surrounding desert. Next to the entrance plaza, visitors pass the Warden Aquarium and Reptile, Amphibian & Invertebrate Hall before heading out to explore the rest of the exhibits via walking paths. Across the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum's 98 acres, you'll find 230 animal species – including hummingbirds, coyotes and string rays – along with 1,200 local plant species. In fact, 85% of what you'll experience is outdoors and requires walking (dress accordingly). For more information, visit the park's official website.Īlthough it's called a "museum," this facility, which is home to animals, a botanical garden, an aquarium and an art gallery – is more of a zoo. daily, with additional morning tours available on the weekends. The Ladder Tour, which is open to participants ages 12 and older, requires reservations and costs $50 per person. Note that children 4 and younger are not allowed in the cave. The Classic Cave Tour is available hourly and costs $22 for adults and $12 for kids ages 5 to 12. Located about 30 miles southeast of downtown Tucson in Vail, Arizona, Colossal Cave Mountain Park is open daily from 8 a.m. Reviewers praised the energy and knowledge of the tour guides, and said this is a great activity if you're traveling with kids. Recent visitors recommended taking a cave tour to enjoy a respite from the Arizona heat. For a real Western feel, visitors can take a trail ride (for an extra fee) from the stables located in the La Posta Quemada Ranch. Beyond the cave, the park features more than 2,400 acres that can be explored via hiking and biking trails, and it's brimming with wildlife. Those in search of an adventure may want to book the 90-minute Ladder Tour, which requires participants to navigate narrow passages and walk across rock bridges to access areas of the cave that have been restricted to most visitors since the 1950s. The 40-minute Classic Cave Tour requires participants to descend six stories (via approximately 360 stairs) for a half-mile guided walk that features stories of the cave's history and lore (including tales of ghosts and robbers) and geological wonders like stalactites and stalagmites.
Visitors interested in touring the cave have two options: the Classic Cave Tour and the Ladder Tour. Today, the cave, which is now equipped with stairs and lights, is a tourist attraction that's featured on the National Register of Historic Places. The Colossal Cave was discovered in 1879 by Solomon Lick, a local rancher. Take a hint from the desert animals and head underground during the heat of the day.
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