The Crystal Lake Caves in Dubuque are one of Iowa’s most unique and beautiful natural attractions. The Crystal Lake geology was formed over millions of years as slow-moving groundwater carved the cave out of layers of limestone. As the water became acidic, it seeped through the ground and created the walkways that visitors can now walk to get a closer look at the unique sights within the caves.

Crystal Lake Cave was discovered in 1868 by a lead ore miner named James Rice.
Facebook/Crystal Lake Cave
Rice sank a 40-foot shaft into the limestone and discovered several hundred feet of natural passage which led to this large system of caves.
Flickr/Soumit Nandi
Crystal Lake Cave contains strikingly unique and beautiful mineral formations that are still alive and growing today.
Flickr/Soumit Nandi
Flickr/Soumit Nandi
A trip through the cave allows visitors to see stalagmites, helictites, anthodites and more up close.
Flickr/Soumit Nandi
Flickr/Soumit Nandi

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The intricate formations covering the walls and ceilings were formed due to minerals dripping from above the caverns.
Flickr/Soumit Nandi
Flickr/Soumit Nandi
Stalactites hang from the cave’s ceiling.
Flickr/Soumit Nandi
Anthodites are beautiful white clusters of Aragonite crystals.
Facebook/Crystal Lake Cave
You can take Wild Cave Tours to explore un-excavated passageways. This guided tour takes about one and a half hours.
Facebook/Crystal Lake Cave
Looks like something from a sci-fi movie, doesn't it?
Facebook/Crystal Lake Cave

Crystal Lake Cave is located five miles south of Dubuque on Highway 52.

Phone: 563-556-6451

Have you been to these amazing caves? What was it like? For more amazing Iowa attractions, check out these 10 Places In Iowa You Must See Before You Die.

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