Ultimate Guide to Spring Valley Caverns, Minnesota (Tours, Pricing, History, Map)
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The Cave Farm, in southeastern Minnesota, is famous as a whopping 38 caves have been discovered on the property. The Spring Valley Caverns are the largest of all caves that have been discovered here. It is under private ownership and is the most extensive cave system on the property.
Several ground-breaking studies have taken place in the caverns, and some of the results have been published in journals like the Smithsonian Magazine. The cave system has been listed at #138 among the longest caves in the US.
History of Spring Valley Caverns
In February 1966, John Latcham purchased a farm of 470 acres in the north of Spring Valley. The farmer discovered a newly opened sinkhole many months later, searching for a lost calf on horseback. He slid through the narrow opening, and by the time his eyes adjusted to the blackness all around, he was already looking at a massive cavern that seemed to have no end. He was surprised at the huge passage that was in front of him.
As soon as he returned to the surface, he proclaimed that he had discovered a vast underground treasure. Experienced cavers were also called upon to examine the cave. Based on the amount of lichen growing, all of them surmised that Spring Valley Caverns must have been open for a fairly long time and have been entered by the previous generations.
Around ½ mile of passages were explored and was documented as one of the most beautiful caverns in the US. Meanwhile, John already had plans to commercialize the cave. Along with his new neighbor, Roger Winters, he constructed a walkway down into the cave with the help of concrete blocks.
John Latcham hired a road contractor to build a road to the cave; electricians were called to illuminate the cave, and construction crews were brought in to make stairways and a high platform. In 1969 the farm was sold off to a new owner who kept the cave open till the 1971 tourist season. The Quonset building was placed over the entrance in 1968, and the cave was locked up for 18 long years till John Ackermann purchased it in 1989.
The flowing water has carved out the passages and the rooms in the cave. In April 1990, John Ackerman discovered 5 miles of cave passages. The unique feature of the cave system is the endless geological formations within the cave. The lower level of the caverns is amazing as this is where the stream flows, and there are three waterfalls at this level.
Geological Cave Formations
The caves at Spring Valley were formed because of the erosion caused by the moving water. Explorations in the caves in later years have revealed decent geological formations formed inside the cave.
Wildlife in Spring Valley Caverns
Specific details about the kind of creatures or animal species seen at the caverns are not available to us. But, we assume that you might come across small creatures or insects at the caverns.
Is Spring Valley Caverns Haunted?
They one of the most popular places for tourists as it houses the largest privately owned cave system in the state.
How Big is Spring Valley Caverns?
Spring Valley Caverns is the largest cave in the state which is under private ownership and is almost 6 miles long.
Spring Valley Caverns Tours
Several improvements have been made to the caverns since its discovery. The present owner has installed artificial entrances for safe access in and out of these caves. Entry to the caverns is tightly controlled, and preference is given to nature groups, scientists, and the Minnesota Caving Club members.
The average depth below the surface is 65 ft, but at some points, the passages plunge 120 ft below the surface. Most of the passages inside the cave are dry, but a large stream flows through the broad lower level.
Tour Prices and Discounts
There are no charges for accessing the caverns.
Is Spring Valley Caverns Cold?
The temperature is 48 degrees F throughout the year.
What to Wear?
Spring Valley Caverns is great fun for the whole family. When you come here, wear a sweatshirt and wear proper footwear if you do not want to get muddy.
Spring Valley Caverns Hours
The caverns can be visited anytime between dawn and dusk.
What to Do In The Area (Beside Tours)
There is nothing much to do except explore the caves, but if you have time in hand, you can check out the Mystery Cave State Park, which is very close to Spring Valley Caverns.
Best Time to Visit
They can be visited any time of the year. However, entry to the caves is highly restricted.
How to Get to Spring Valley Caverns
Spring Valley Caverns is in southeastern Minnesota in Fillmore County. The region is within the Driftless Area, an area known for its Karst topography that includes caves and sinkholes.
Hotels Nearby
Some quality hotels are available near the caverns, such as Ramada by Wyndham and Radisson Blu Mall of America. The Radisson hotel is far from Spring Valley, but it is a reasonable accommodation option in south Minnesota.
Spring Valley Caverns Fun Facts
- The caverns are the largest privately owned cave system in Minnesota.
- The present owner of the cave is John Ackerman.
- There are 38 caves on Cave Preserve.
Spring Valley Caverns Details
- Length: The length of the cave is 5 3/4th miles.
- Time Recommended: 1 to 2 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Kid-friendly: No
- Dog-friendly: No
- Fees: Free
- Hours: Dawn to dusk
Visiting Spring Valley Caverns
Do you need more information before visiting? Call (866) 857 – 2757 for an information packet.
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