Nestled just west of Colorado Springs, Cave of the Winds Mountain Park offers one of the premier show caves in the United States—a blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and above-ground adrenaline.
Colorado Springs, Colorado
45 Minutes
Spring, Summer, Fall
$27 per adult
$17 per child
Overview
Whether you’re drawn by the thrill of the Terror-dactyl ride flinging you off the edge of a 200-foot cliff or the eerie charm of dark, narrow tunnels beneath the earth, the Discovery Tour offers a fun way for the whole family to explore the wonders of this incredible cave system.
The story begins in 1881, when brothers John and George Pickett were exploring the limestone cliffs of Williams Canyon and stumbled across a small opening. Local guide George Washington Snider explored it further, uncovering what we now call the Manitou Grand Caverns. Soon, people were marveling at the formations and whispering about the unexplained phenomena of the Manitou Grands. Later, explorer Arthur B. Love helped document and open new caves, expanding the system into what has become a top tourist attraction in the region.
Cave of the Winds Discovery Tour Plan
While spending Spring Break in Colorado Springs, we flipped through some brochures at our hotel, and one for the Discovery Tour at Cave of the Winds stood out. With nothing on the schedule for the next day, we decided to check it out—and we’re so glad we did. The cave was far more expansive than we expected, with an impressive number of unique formations around every corner.
Carving in the wall of the cave
Ryan and Tyler outside of the cave entrance
Getting There
Location
You’ll find Cave of the Winds on Cave of the Winds Rd, just above the historic town of Manitou Springs, about 15 minutes from Colorado Springs and right near the base of Pikes Peak. It’s perfectly positioned for stunning views of the surrounding area, from limestone canyons to snow-capped peaks.
Best Time to Go
The Discovery Tour runs year-round, but the best time to visit is late spring through early fall—Memorial Day through Labor Day—when you can enjoy the outdoor attractions without chilly weather. Summers can be busy, so arrive early for fewer crowds.
Inside the cave
Coming back aboveground from the cave tour
Cave of the Winds Discovery Tour in Colorado Springs, Colorado
Who Can Go?
The Discovery Tour is ideal for the entire group, including kids, grandparents, and everyone in between. It’s a family-friendly journey underground, without the more physically intense elements of other cave tours. Just know that uneven stairs and low passageways require moderate mobility.
What You'll See
Your journey takes you through different rooms of the Manitou Grand Caverns, including dramatic formations like Canopy Hall, a large chamber with soaring ceilings, and a limestone archway that almost glows under the lights. Knowledgeable guides share stories of geology, early exploration, and some spooky ghost stories for good measure. Expect to see some of the most beautiful formations found in any show cave in the U.S.
Ryan inside the cave
More cave formations
What to Bring & Wear
Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes—no sandals or flip-flops. It stays around 54°F (12°C) underground, so a light jacket is a smart choice. Don’t forget water and your camera (no tripods inside), and pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at the tables near the visitor center after your tour.
Where to Go
Once you park, check in at the visitor center, where you can grab tickets, browse the gift shop, and ask questions about the pioneer package, which bundles cave access with friendly activities like the Wind Walker Challenge Course—a thrilling three-story obstacle course perched above a 600-foot drop into Williams Canyon. Brave enough? Try Geronimo’s Leap or zip through the air on Frontier Zip Lines.
How Long Does it Take?
The Discovery Tour lasts about 45 minutes and covers around half a mile of walking. It’s long enough to feel immersed in the cave world, but short enough to keep kids engaged.
Some of the original holes leading into the caves
One of many formations pointed out by our guide
Cost
As of the latest update, tickets for the Discovery Tour cost around $27 for adults and $17 for children. Pioneer Packages and combo passes are also available, and some affiliate links on tourism sites may offer small discounts.
Tips for Cave of the Winds
- Book your tour online in advance—tours fill quickly, especially in the summer.
- Arrive early for parking and to explore the above-ground attractions before your cave tour.
- Not a fan of enclosed spaces? Skip the Haunted Lantern Tour—a scarier option with only lantern light and creepy tales in the dark.
- Keep an eye out for the geology of the cave features your guide points out—it’s a rare chance to see ancient formations up close.