Unique Things to do in Idaho: Idaho’s Mammoth Cave

Idaho, often known for its picturesque landscapes and outdoor experiences, harbors an awe-inspiring secret beneath its rugged terrain – Idaho’s Mammoth Cave.

This hidden gem, nestled in the desert landscape of Southern Idaho near the town of Shoshone, isn’t just a geological wonder of a fiery past but a treasure trove of history, adventure, and beauty. As you embark upon a journey through its underground passageway, you will uncover a volcanic legacy going back millions of years while gaining a better understanding of the destructive forces of nature that shape our world. As one of the most fascinating and unique things to do in Idaho, Idaho’s Mammoth Cave is a mesmerizing underground landscape that offers a rare glimpse into our planet’s dynamic history.

The Geological Marvel of Idaho’s Mammoth Cave

Idaho’s Mammoth Cave is one of the largest lava tube caves open to the public. Formed millions of years ago when the land was rocked by a violent volcanic eruption, rivers of molten lava flowed out of the depths of the earth, filling the valley with lava estimated to have been 600 feet deep. During this time, the outer surface of one of these rivers cooled while the molten lava beneath it flowed on, leaving behind a hollow tube that created this rare and stunning cave.

Over time, many different species of animals began using the cave for shelter, including the extinct short-faced bear, cougars, birds, and bats. The bones of other animals including camels, buffalo, and little horses, have also been found within its dirt floor.

Millennia later, many Shoshone and Bannock tribes used the cave to escape harsh weather conditions and store vital resources. Idaho’s Mammoth Cave is also an ecological wonder of ancient life that contains a rare growth on its walls called cyanobacteria, which are ancient living organisms that date back billions of years when the earth’s climate was vastly different. Today, these organisms, along with other mineral deposits, give the cave an otherworldly appearance, painting its walls with the striking colors of pure silver, gold, and red.

The Man Behind the Discovery

Richard Arthur Olsen, a name synonymous with Idaho’s Mammoth Cave, discovered this hidden wonder in 1954 while bobcat hunting in the area.

“I was with my high school sweetheart Vinita, and I talked her into exploring the cavern with just a single flashlight. As my excitement and imagination grew, expecting to find treasure at any moment. Vinita, scared and unhappy, cried the whole way in and the whole way out.” – Richard Arthur Olsen.

His adventurous spirt and love for history and the outdoors led him to share this marvel with the world. Olsen’s dedication extended beyond the massive cavern having founded the Shoshone Bird Museum of Natural History and the Richard Arthur Olsen Museum of History, each showcasing a vast collection of natural history specimens, fossils, antiques, and cultural artifacts from around the world. As a taxidermist, Olsen was skilled in the art of preserving and displaying wildlife and the majority of the animals on display are the result of his own hard work and dedication. As one of the largest, privately owned museums in the Northwest, the site has been nicknamed the “Smithsonian of the Desert,” making it one of the most unique things to do in Idaho.

A Cold War Shelter that Vowed to Protect the Community

During the Cold War, Idaho’s Mammoth Cave took on a new role as a potential nuclear fallout shelter. It was rated 1,000+ by the Idaho Bureau of Disaster Services, receiving the highest score for nuclear fallout protection. That’s when the Lincoln County Civil Defense director in Shoshone enlisted Olsen’s help to build a platform inside the cave to hold enough food and water for thousands of people in case the unthinkable happened.

Rations of crackers, candy, wafers, toilet paper, water, and carbohydrate supplements were stocked to last over 8,000 people for two weeks. At the time, Olsen was told that if disaster struck, prevailing winds would sweep radioactive fallout to the Lincoln County area within two to three hours after a nuclear blast over the nearby mountain Home Air Force Base, located 75 miles west of Idaho’s Mammoth Cave. While the cave was never used for this purpose, and the supplies for nuclear survivors are long gone, Idaho’s Mammoth Cave remains a potential fallout shelter for nearby residents of Blaine Camas and Lincoln County if needed.

Self-Guided Cave Tours

Visitors can embark on self-guided cave tours of the cave, allowing you to explore at your own personal pace. The established trail extends approximately a quarter mile into the cave and a quarter-mile back out, making it accessible for most visitors. Lanterns are provided to illuminate the path, but bringing an additional flashlight is always recommended.

The cave maintains a constant temperature of around 40 degrees Fahrenheit, so wearing a light jacket and good walking shoes is recommended. The tour typically takes about 30 minutes, offering an intimate experience with this natural wonder.

The Shoshone Bird Museum of Natural History

The Shoshone Bird Museum of Natural History is an extraordinary collection of preserved wildlife and artifacts, offering visitors a fascinating look into the natural world. Built with four-foot-thick lava rock walls and supported by massive ponderosa pine and cottonwood beams, the museum itself is a structural marvel that complements its surroundings. The museum houses an extensive collection of mounted birds from across the globe, carefully preserved and displayed in lifelike poses. These exhibits allow guests to appreciate the diverse importance of bird species from various habitats. In addition to birds, the museum also features a large butterfly collection, showcasing delicate specimens with vibrant colors and intricate wing patterns.

Beyond its avian exhibits, the Shoshone Bird Museum includes a wide variety of fossils, minerals, and cultural artifacts. Visitors can explore displays featuring ancient fossils, including dinosaur remains and prehistoric plant life, providing a glimpse into the distant past. The museum also holds an extensive rock and gemstone collection, with specimens from around the world, illustrating the geological diversity of our planet.

Cultural artifacts from Native American tribes, early pioneers, and international civilizations further enrich the experience, offering insight into the lives and traditions of people throughout history. These artifacts include tools, pottery, weapons, and ceremonial items, each telling a unique story of adaptation and survival.

Known as the “Smithsonian of the Desert,” this museum is more than just a collection of exhibits—it is a testament to the passion and dedication of Richard Arthur Olsen, who spent decades gathering and preserving these items. The museum provides an immersive educational experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the connections between nature, history, and human culture. Whether you’re a bird enthusiast, fossil hunter, or history buff, the Shoshone Bird Museum of Natural History offers an unforgettable journey through the wonders of our natural and cultural heritage.

The Richard Arthur Olsen Museum of Natural History

The Richard Arthur Olsen Museum of Natural History is a treasure trove of geological and archaeological wonders, reflecting the lifelong dedication of its founder. Unlike traditional museums, this collection is highly personal and deeply rooted in the exploration and discovery of one man who sought to bring the natural world to life. Visitors can explore an astonishing array of fossils, rocks, and prehistoric artifacts, carefully displayed to highlight the evolution of Earth’s landscapes and life forms. The museum’s collection includes dinosaur fossils, ancient seashells, petrified wood, and preserved prehistoric plant life, showcasing the incredible age and history of our planet.

One of the most impressive aspects of the museum is its extensive collection of rare minerals, crystals, and gemstones from around the world. The dazzling colors and intricate formations provide a stunning visual experience, offering a glimpse into the hidden beauty of the Earth’s underground treasures. The museum also features meteorites and volcanic rock specimens, helping visitors understand the powerful geological forces that shape our world. As guests explore these exhibits, they gain a greater appreciation for Idaho’s unique volcanic past and its role in forming the stunning landscapes seen today.

In addition to its geological exhibits, the Richard Arthur Olsen Museum of Natural History highlights artifacts from cultures across the globe. Ancient tools, pottery, weapons, and decorative items tell the story of human innovation and survival throughout history.

These artifacts offer a rare glimpse into the daily lives and traditions of past civilizations, bridging the gap between prehistoric life and modern society. Whether you’re intrigued by geology, archaeology, or cultural history, this museum is a fascinating stop that adds depth to the experience of visiting Idaho’s Mammoth Cave. The collection serves as a reminder of our shared past and the enduring curiosity that drives exploration and discovery.

A Peacock Paradise

Idaho’s Mammoth Cave isn’t just about awe-inspiring geological formations; it’s a desert paradise for peacock lovers. Imagine wandering through a dazzling display of free-roaming peacocks, unbothered by human presence. These birds, with their beautiful feathers and majestic strut, bring a burst of color and life to the cave’s surroundings.

It’s particularly enchanting in the summer when the area is filled with the flutter of peacock chicks. Watching these adorable youngsters explore their world is a heartwarming sight and a photographer’s dream. The peacocks, strutting around with their splendid tails fanned out, create a lively and picturesque atmosphere that’s simply unforgettable.

But the avian charm of Idaho’s Mammoth Cave doesn’t stop with peacocks. The site is also home to two friendly emus who have become local celebrities. These gentle giants are well-known for stealing the spotlight with their quirky antics. As a visitor, you’ll get a kick out of feeding them grain from your hands, an interaction that’s as thrilling for adults as it is for children. The emus’ curious and approachable nature makes them a hit among guests, adding another layer of joy to this unique thing to do in Idaho.

Visiting Idaho’s Mammoth Cave – Unique Things to Do in Idaho

Idaho’s Mammoth Cave is more than just a geological formation; it’s a living museum, a historical archive, and a testament to one man’s passion for nature and history. Its stark beauty, combined with the rich tapestry of stories it holds, makes it a must-visit destination in Southern Idaho, offering a unique and enriching experience for all who venture into its depths.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking for a unique, family-friendly adventure, Idaho’s Mammoth Cave promises an unforgettable experience. Want to learn more? Visit idahosmammothcave.com or call (208) 329-5382 and start planning your Southern Idaho adventure.

Quick Facts About Visiting Idaho’s Mammoth Cave

As one of the most unique things to do in Idaho, Idaho’s Mammoth Cave is a seasonal business that is open to the public from May to October each year, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (with the last tours of the day going out at 5 p.m.), seven days a week, including all major holidays.

Idaho’s Mammoth Cave is located eight miles north of Shoshone, Idaho, on the scenic State Highway 75.

There is an established trail, and lanterns are provided. If you have flashlights, they are always good to bring along.

Wearing a light jacket is recommended. The self-guided tour takes about 1/2 hour. You walk about 1/4 mile in and 1/4 mile out.

Admission is $15 for adults, $9 for children 12 and under, and children under 5 years old are free. Admission includes all three attractions – cave tour, Shoshone Bird Museum, and Richard Arthur Olsen Museum of Natural History.