Cave of the Mounds, Natural limestone cave in Blue Mounds, Wisconsin.
Cave of the Mounds is a limestone cavern in Blue Mounds featuring multiple chambers filled with mineral deposits. The passages showcase calcite formations shaped by water over thousands of years, creating layers and hanging structures throughout the underground space.
Workers uncovered this cave in 1939 during quarrying operations on the site. The discovery led to immediate protection of the interior to prevent damage to the delicate formations.
The Chicago Academy of Sciences recognizes this cave as the most notable geological formation in the upper Midwest region of the United States.
The cave stays cool inside year-round and has tight passages and stairs to navigate. Wear comfortable shoes with good grip and bring a jacket, as the ground is often wet and slippery.
This cave hosts specialized bacteria that create colored mineral deposits throughout the passages. These microscopic organisms work slowly to change the appearance of the cavern over time.
Location: Blue Mounds
Website: http://caveofthemounds.com
GPS coordinates: 43.01800,-89.81600
Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:03
Wisconsin contains numerous natural areas and historic sites away from typical tourist routes. Geological features include Cave of the Mounds with limestone formations, Parfrey's Glen with an 800-foot gorge, and Pewit's Nest State Natural Area with sandstone cliffs. The Apostle Islands Ice Caves offer seasonal ice formations along the Lake Superior shoreline. Rock Island State Park and Schoolhouse Beach on Washington Island provide access to remote islands and coastal areas. Devil's Lake State Park and Blue Mound State Park feature trails through varied terrain.
Blue Mound State Park
3.2 km
Little Norway, Wisconsin
2.3 km
Fort Blue Mounds
1.3 km
Pleasant Valley Conservancy State Natural Area
9.7 km
Black Earth Rettenmund Prairie State Natural Area
14 km
Hauge Log Church
9.8 km
Brigham County Park
1.1 km
Herman B. and Anne Marie Dahle House
6.3 km
Hoff Department Store
6.5 km
Hyde Chapel
13.5 km
Heiney's Meat Market
14.4 km
John Sweet Donald Farmstead
12.2 km
Aslak Lie Cabin
12 km
Henry L. and Sarah Dahle House
6.7 km
Plum Grove Primitive Methodist Church
17.5 km
Onon B. and Betsy Dahle House
11.4 km
Thomas Stone Barn
8.8 km
Roberts House
6.5 km
Harris House
6.7 km
Grove Street Historic District
6.8 km
Cassidy Farmhouse
6 km
Eric and Jerome Skindrud Farm
10.4 km
Gulbrand and Bertha Jensvold House
11.8 km
Kittleson House
6.6 km
Black Earth Public Library
14.4 km
Mount Horeb Public Library
7.8 km
Rosemary Garfoot Public Library
17.4 km
Mount Horeb Union Cemetery
7.1 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes