It’s not always easy finding new places around the state to explore, so today, we’re checking one fascinating spot located underground in southern Arizona.
If you’re up for some spelunking in a quiet section of the state and in a pristine cave, then you’ll want to check out Cave of the Bells, pictured here.
Gene Wilburn/Flickr
The cave is tucked away in the foothills of the Santa Rita Mountains, miles away from any small towns and accessible via a dirt road. This map gives a general location the cave. As you can tell, it’s quite remote!
Google Maps
You will need a four-wheel drive, high clearance vehicle to get through some of the dirt forest roads.
wplynn/Flickr Another thing to keep in mind: the cave is permanently under lock and key. Access keys can be obtained at the Forest Supervisor’s Office in Tucson after you leave a $100 deposit (refundable upon return of the key).
Upon entering the cave, drop down about 10 feet (it’s helpful to bring a rope and to have good knotting skills). From there, unlock the gate and get ready to explore a brand new world!
wplynn/Flickr Other supplies we recommend bringing are a helmet, a headlamp, an extra light source (in case your headlamp breaks or dies), and a light jacket for temperature changes upon exiting the cave. Having previous caving skills is also highly recommended since you’ll find few resources here for accessing various parts of the cave.
The second entrance, found just after the gate, will require some crawling.
wpynn/Flickr
And you’re in!
wplynn/Flickr You’ll find the cave is surprisingly warm and humid but also wide and expansive. You’ll find passages and rooms all around, though some will require ropes to drop into. With enough exploring, you’ll find a small lake hidden here, which stays a warm 76-degrees.
Other things you’ll find around the cave are the little pieces of evidence that the cave is very much alive.
wpynn/Flickr
Delicate formations like these can be found all around the cave and can be easily damaged, which is why it is important to tread lightly.
wpynn/Flickr
Cave of the Bells is located in the Santa Rita Mountains and access is limited. Keys must be picked up at the Forest Supervisor’s Office in Tucson with a $100 deposit. You can find driving directions, details about obtaining the access key, or make reservations by visiting the Forest Service website or calling (520) 388-8300.
Gene Wilburn/Flickr
Google Maps
wplynn/Flickr
Another thing to keep in mind: the cave is permanently under lock and key. Access keys can be obtained at the Forest Supervisor’s Office in Tucson after you leave a $100 deposit (refundable upon return of the key).
Other supplies we recommend bringing are a helmet, a headlamp, an extra light source (in case your headlamp breaks or dies), and a light jacket for temperature changes upon exiting the cave. Having previous caving skills is also highly recommended since you’ll find few resources here for accessing various parts of the cave.
wpynn/Flickr
You’ll find the cave is surprisingly warm and humid but also wide and expansive. You’ll find passages and rooms all around, though some will require ropes to drop into. With enough exploring, you’ll find a small lake hidden here, which stays a warm 76-degrees.
If you’re looking for another fascinating cave but in northern Arizona, you’re in luck! Lava River Cave sits near Flagstaff and you can read more about it in Most People Have No Idea This Unique Tunnel In Arizona Exists.
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