Blog | Idaho Attractions | Idaho's Mammoth Cave

Perrine Bridge spanning the Snake River Canyon near Twin Falls, Idaho, a scenic stop on a Southern Idaho road trip featuring volcanic canyon landscapes and nature views

Things to Do Near Twin Falls, Idaho: A Local’s Guide to the Best of the Magic Valley

Twin Falls, Idaho, sits at the center of one of the most activity-rich regions in the American West. Within 30 minutes of downtown, you’ll find Shoshone Falls, the Snake River Canyon, Perrine Coulee Falls, and Dierkes Lake. Within 45 minutes, Idaho’s Mammoth Cave offers one of the largest volcanic lava-tube systems open to the public…

Illuminated interior of Idaho’s Mammoth Cave in southern Idaho

Idaho’s Mammoth Cave Is Open for the 2026 Season! The Shoshone Ice Cave Is Temporarily Closed

Idaho’s Mammoth Cave near Shoshone, Idaho, is open daily May 1 through September 29 for the 2026 season and is one of the largest volcanic lava tubes open to the public in the United States. The nearby Shoshone Ice Cave is temporarily closed for the entire 2026 season while walkway repairs and replacement are completed.…

16 Fun Things to Do in Idaho You’ve Probably Never Heard Of

Idaho is one of the most activity-rich states in the American West, with fun things to do that go far beyond hiking and scenic drives. From self-guided tours through ancient volcanic lava tubes and kayaking to electric-blue springs accessible only by water and sandboarding the tallest single-structured sand dune in North America, Idaho has genuinely…

Scenic mountain landscape in southern Idaho with forested hills, morning light, and layered terrain

What Makes Idaho Different From Other Western States

Key Takeaways Idaho offers a wide range of things to do, from caves and waterfalls to scenic drives and canyon views Lava tube caves and volcanic terrain create one of the most unique travel experiences in the western United States Many destinations are less crowded, allowing for more flexible and relaxed exploration Southern Idaho is…

Clear alpine lake in Idaho reflecting rugged mountain peaks and forested slopes

Alternatives to Idaho’s Most Crowded Attractions

Quick Answer for Travelers Best alternatives to Idaho’s most crowded attractions include: Exploring lava tube caves in southern Idaho Visiting quieter viewpoints along the Snake River Canyon Spending time at alpine lakes such as Stanley Lake or Alice Lake Exploring granite formations at City of Rocks Discovering remote desert landscapes in the Owyhee Canyonlands While…

Illuminated walkway inside Idaho’s Mammoth Cave, showing lava-formed rock walls and underground passage way in southern Idaho

Why Idaho’s Mammoth Cave Is One of Idaho’s Most Unique Attractions

Idaho’s Mammoth Cave is one of the most unique things to do in Idaho, a natural lava tube cave located just north of Shoshone in Southern Idaho. Formed by ancient volcanic lava flows, the cave allows visitors to explore Idaho’s geology from beneath the surface through a self-guided walking experience. Along with the cave itself,…

Southern Idaho Road Trip Ideas

Southern Idaho is one of the easiest parts of the state to explore by car. Scenic drives, natural landmarks, and family-friendly stops are close enough to combine into a flexible road trip without long hours on the road. This guide walks through a realistic Southern Idaho road trip that highlights well-known stops while also focusing…

Scenic view of the Snake River Canyon in southern Idaho, showing the river winding through desert cliffs and green valley landscapes

Things to Do in Idaho for First-Time Visitors: Nature, Caves & Scenic Destinations

Idaho offers waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, lava tube caves, mountain lakes, river canyons, and natural history attractions across the state. For first-time visitors, exploring one region at a time makes it easier to experience these categories without long drives. Southern Idaho is especially well suited for combining waterfalls, canyons, and underground cave exploration in a single…

Did You Know? Fun Facts About Idaho’s Mammoth Cave

If you’re searching for unforgettable things to do in Idaho, Idaho’s Mammoth Cave is one of the most unique places you can visit. It’s not just a cave; it’s a natural record of Southern Idaho’s volcanic history. Whether you’ve visited us before or are planning your first trip, there’s a lot to learn and love…

Unforgettable Experiences in Idaho You Won’t Find Anywhere Else

From exploring underground caves to paddling crystal-clear springs and ghost hunting a historic town, Idaho is packed with incredible experiences. With such a diverse landscape, there are countless activities for thrill-seekers, nature lovers, and history buffs alike. At Idaho’s Mammoth Cave, we’d like to take you on a journey through some of the most unique…

What is the Number One Attraction in Idaho?

Idaho, often called the Gem State, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, history, and adventure. With a landscape as varied as it is stunning, the state offers countless destinations that could be considered the number one attraction in the state. From towering mountains and alpine lakes to vast deserts and subterranean caves, Idaho’s diverse…

What Do People Visit Idaho For?

Idaho, often referred to as the Gem State, offers a dazzling array of attractions and activities that draw visitors from all corners of the globe. From the mesmerizing beauty of its vast wilderness areas to the inviting charm of its small towns, Idaho beckons with the promise of unspoiled nature and adventurous escapades. That’s why…

Is There Anything Worth Seeing in Idaho?

Nestled in the American Northwest is a hidden gem of stunning landscapes and cultural history many travelers overlook. As a playground for adventurers, Idaho isn’t merely a state to pass through; it’s a treasure trove of natural beauty, thrilling adventures, and unique geological formations begging to be explored. Among its numerous attractions, Idaho’s Mammoth Cave…

What Are the Best Months to Visit Idaho?

Idaho’s diverse landscapes and rich natural and cultural attractions make it a year-round destination. However, the best months to visit Idaho can vary depending on your interests and the types of activities you enjoy. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, historical exploration, or simply enjoying nature’s tranquility, there’s something for everyone throughout the year. Summer: Outdoor…

Top 10 Things to Do in Southern Idaho

Southern Idaho, a region famous for its stunning landscapes and rich history, offers a wide variety of activities for adventurers, nature lovers, and families alike. From exploring vast lava tube caves to marveling at awe-inspiring waterfalls, here are the top 10 things to do in Southern Idaho. Idaho’s Mammoth Cave A Subterranean Wonder in Southern…

Things to do in Idaho: Discovering the State’s Subterranean Landscapes

Idaho’s beauty isn’t just found in its majestic mountains, expansive plains, breathtaking canyons, and serene lakes – it extends deep below the earth’s surface. Here, you can venture into a world of ancient lava tubes, each offering a unique glimpse into the state’s unique geological history. These caves not only offer a journey into the…

Snake River Canyon in Twin Falls Idaho with layered canyon walls and river winding through the landscape

A Guide to Unique Idaho Experiences Across the State

Unexpected Idaho Adventures Worth Exploring Unique Idaho experiences include exploring volcanic lava tube caves, BASE jumping from the Perrine Bridge in Twin Falls, white-water rafting through deep canyons, hiking alpine mountain ranges, soaking in natural hot springs, and visiting historic frontier towns. From southern Idaho’s volcanic landscapes to the rugged Sawtooth Mountains in the north,…

What is the Most Beautiful Place to Visit in Idaho? 2026

While it might seem biased compared to other scenic beauties across the state, Idaho’s Mammoth Cave is widely considered by those who love underground landscapes to be one of the most beautiful and unique places to visit in Idaho. Why? Because it’s a place that remains almost unchanged from when it was formed by ancient…

Is There Anything Cool to See in Idaho? Unveiling the Gem State’s Treasures

Often overshadowed by its Pacific Northwest neighbors, Idaho is a hidden trove of natural beauty and adventure. Beyond its fame of being known as the Potato State, Idaho is home to rich landscapes, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences that attract visitors worldwide. From whitewater rafting to exploring underground caverns to soaking in natural hot springs,…

A Famous Idaho Attraction: Idaho’s Mammoth Cave

Nestled among the rugged desert landscape of southern Idaho, just seven miles north of the small town of Shoshone, lies a hidden gem that is truly a diamond in the rough. While the “Cave” sign, with its bold, weathered letters, may not immediately catch your eye as you pass by on Highway 75, you will…

Grand Opening of the Richard Arthur Olsen Museum of Natural History

THE SHOSHONE BIRD MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY OPENS A SECOND MUSEUM AT IDAHO’S MAMMOTH CAVE IN SHOSHONE, IDAHO. Idaho’s Mammoth Cave is grand opening an additional museum of natural history on June 11th, 2022, in honor of the late Richard Arthur Olsen, who founded and curated this famous Idaho landmark before passing away in 2019.…

Visiting Idaho’s Mammoth Cave & Shoshone Ice Caves

A wonderful article shared by Visit Southern Idaho! Thank you for the shoutout and we look forward to all of our wonderful visitors this 2022 season! As a famous Idaho attraction, Idaho’s Mammoth Cave is located 8 miles north of Shoshone, Idaho and the drive is approximately 30 minutes from Twin Falls, Idaho. Spring tours…

Idaho’s Mammoth Cave Spring 2022 Season!

Looking for something fun to do this weekend? Idaho’s Mammoth Cave & Shoshone Bird Museum officially opens this Saturday, April 2nd, and every Friday – Sunday after that for spring tours until we switch to our normal summer schedule in May. Admission includes the adventure of exploring one of the largest volcanic caves in the…

An Apocalypse That Almost Happened

A stark monument of the past that still waits in pitch-black silence. When Richard Olsen homesteaded Idaho’s Mammoth Cave in 1954, he thought it would be a great place to grow and store mushrooms. At the time, however, the Soviet Union and their allies were locked in a tense, long conflict known as the Cold…