Idaho is no stranger to underground caves. We’re home to dozens of them. However, one of the largest and most breathtaking caves is hiding right underneath our nose and most people don’t even know it exists. If you love exploring the underground treasures that Idaho contains then you’ll want to plan a trip to this little-known cave. Believe us. You need to see how massive this thing is with your own eyes to believe it!
Located near Craters of the Moon National Monument is a lesser-known underground cave that is sure to blow you away. As you can see from the map below, this cave is situated smack dab in the middle of nowhere...but it's well worth going out of your way for.
You almost can't even see Bear Trap Cave until you're right on top of it. From a certain angle, you can't see the cave at all—just a barren southern Idaho landscape. As you slowly get closer, the humongous cave opening will come into view.
Bear Trap Cave is a major lava tube that is thought to have originated over 15,000 years ago. That makes it older than both the Wapi flow (2,270 years old) and the Craters of the Moon flow (as young as 2,070 years old).
Be sure to bring a flashlight because you'll be engulfed by darkness almost as soon as you enter the cave. This is a huge lava tube which stretches for an incredible 15 miles. You may not be able to see the whole thing in one day but you can certainly try!
Be sure to take your time as your peruse the lava tube. Fallen rocks cover the floor and rattlesnakes are known to hang out in the cave during the peak of summer. As you trek deeper and deeper into the cave, you'll be traversing ground that hasn't been explored by many.
Bear Trap Cave is definitely unique, so visitors are encouraged to treat it with respect. A sign near the cave reads "Enjoy your visit and remember to take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints, kill nothing but time". That's good advice to adhere to.
This one-of-a-kind cave is an awesome adventure that anyone can enjoy. It's these types of places that remind us that there's always something new and exciting to explore in Idaho.
Who knew this massive underground cave was hiding out in Idaho? What a neat find! Check out our list of 8 Fascinating Caves In Idaho for more fantastic places to explore.
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