The Large Cave In Utah That Still Baffles Archaeologists To This Day

Here in Utah, incredible discoveries have been made. Some of these give us a clear look into the past, while others leave archeologists and other experts scratching their heads. Danger Cave State Park Heritage Area in Utah is one of these unique discoveries and while providing clues into what life was like hundreds of years ago, it also remains a bit of a mystery.

Danger Cave Utah was actually formed by the waves of Lake Bonneville thousands of years ago. When the waters receded, the cave was accessible and people began living in the cave. You can find it in the western region of the state in the Bonneville Basin.

This unique cave is more than just an opening on the side of a mountain. It is actually one of the most significant archaeological sites in the entire country.

This cave gives experts a glimpse into the lives of the Native Peoples who lived in North America. In fact, it is believed that this cave was home to Native Americans more than 11,000 years ago. Today, the area around the cave is known as Danger Cave State Historical Monument and is recognized as a National Historic Landmark. It's also is one of the 45 state parks in Utah, protected and monitored by the State Park Services.

Archeologists first visited the cave in the 1930s. They called this cave Hands and Knees Cave because of its small and low opening.

However, while crews were working on the cave, a large rock fell off the cliff face, barely missing the archeologists. This led to the cave being renamed Danger Cave and delaying excavation work.

Then, in the 1940s and 1950s, students attending the University of Utah began the work again and discovered quite a treasure.

Inside the cave were layers upon layers of artifacts dating back thousands of years. Items discovered included weapons, baskets, leather scraps, bones, and more.

Experts believe that the cave was used by different groups of Native Americans over the years and that they lived in small groups.

While the cave is typically closed to the public and bars have been placed on its exterior, occasional tours are held each year, giving you a look into this remarkable excavation site.

Work is continually done in Danger Cave year after year to learn just a little more about the Native Americans who called this area home. There are still many mysteries that are waiting to be solved and questions that need answers.

Have you ever heard of Danger Cave State Park Heritage Area in Utah? Have you taken a tour of this remarkable place in Utah’s western desert? Be sure to share them with us -- we would love to hear about your experiences in the comments!

Do you love to explore caves? While you may not be allowed in Danger Cave, there are many other caves around the state that deserve to be on your bucket list, including the Wind Caves in Logan Canyon.