Minnesota’s Longest Cave System Opens for Scenic Tours
I love caves. They are so cool. You can feel a bit like a professional explorer when checking these things out. You don't have to drive too far to see a giant cave system here in Minnesota.
Mystery Cave is located in Preston, Minnesota which is about 3 hours from St. Cloud, just South of Rochester. It is part of the Forestville/Mystery Cave state park. They shut down any tours last Summer due to the pandemic and the restrictions associated with COVID. Up to now, they have been closed to ANY tours. They have several options for tours, but right now, they are only opening partially. Basically taking things sort of slow.
The tours for Mystery Cave are based on a first come, first served basis. This will run until about July 12th, which is next Monday. Maybe more open after that? Their website does say they are open daily from 8am to 10pm, but the cave tours (scenic tours only) will be open Thursdays through Mondays from 10am to 4pm. Other tours such as the Lantern Tour, Geology Tour, Wild Caving tour and more still say "unavailable" for now. Also- no matter what the temperature is outside, you're advised to dress warmly as the cave is only about 48 degrees. So, if you'd like a break for the heat outside, great idea to take the family for the scenic cave tour. There are 13 miles of underground passages. Cool, right?
If you are interested in doing some of the other tours, might be a good idea to wait a bit and see if they are going to open later this Summer/Fall.
If you haven't checked out a cave... like ever... this one is relatively close, and is worth the drive.