Kartchner Caverns State Park
A "living cave" that was discovered only in 1974 and is remarkably well preserved. Its still-growing formations are richly colored, and it has some of the longest soda straws in the world.
Kartchner Caverns was kept secret for years by two cave enthusiasts before it was opened to the public. To protect the cave environment, it uses sealed doors and strict guided tour rules. There are two main tour routes, the Rotunda/Throne Room and the Big Room. Sights include a soda straw about 6.4 meters long and the Kubla Khan column, which rises to about 17 meters. The Big Room is closed during the bat maternity season, roughly April to mid-October. Photography is not allowed inside the cave, and backpacks and food are prohibited. Admission is about $30, and advance online booking is required. The cave is located near Benson, about an hour's drive from Tucson, and can be combined with Tombstone in one day.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:00–18:00 (guided tours depart at set times)
Nearby sights
- Tombstone
- Colossal Cave Mountain Park
- Saguaro National Park – Rincon Mountain District (East)
- Pima Air & Space Museum & Boneyard Tour
- Madera Canyon
- Titan Missile Museum
- Sabino Canyon
- Reid Park Zoo