Cave of the Winds Mountain Park | Colorado Springs

Cave of the Winds Mountain Park, located just west of Colorado Springs in the scenic town of Manitou Springs, is one of Colorado’s oldest and most iconic natural attractions. First opened to the public in 1881, the site offers a combination of breathtaking underground cave tours and thrilling cliffside adventures, making it a unique destination that blends geology, history, and adrenaline-pumping outdoor experiences.

Geological Formation and Natural Features

The cave system sits within Williams Canyon, carved from ancient limestone layers over 500 million years old, dating back to the Ordovician period. These caves were formed through the gradual dissolution of limestone by carbonic acid-rich groundwater. Over millions of years, this created intricate networks of tunnels, rooms, stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, and other mineral formations.

Unlike many commercial caves that feature heavy remodeling, Cave of the Winds retains much of its natural appearance. Highlights include:

Giant’s Bleeding Heart – a massive, pink-colored stalagmite formed by centuries of mineral-rich water dripping from the ceiling.

Canopy Hall – one of the earliest-discovered and most spacious chambers, known for its dramatic acoustics and early role in guided tours.

Silent Splendor – a striking area rich in rare crystalline speleothems.

Inside the cave, the temperature remains a constant 54°F (12°C) year-round, providing a cool, comfortable atmosphere regardless of season.

History and Discovery

The site was officially discovered in 1880 by brothers John and George Pickett, who stumbled upon the entrance when a gust of wind extinguished their candles, leading them into a hidden chamber. George Washington Snider further explored and developed the cave system, and by 1881, it was open to the public, making it one of the oldest continuously operated show caves in the United States.

Early tours used lanterns and candles, with visitors often crawling through narrow passages. By 1907, the caves were among the first in the nation to feature electric lighting, enhancing accessibility and safety.

The name “Cave of the Winds” comes from Native American lore, particularly from the Ute and Apache tribes, who believed the area was the dwelling place of the Great Spirit of the Wind.

Underground Tours

The cave offers multiple guided tours tailored to different interests, fitness levels, and ages:

1. Discovery Tour

Duration: 45–60 minutes

This is the most popular and family-friendly option. It follows a paved path through a well-lit portion of the cave, featuring large rooms, narrow passages, and dramatic formations.

Includes highlights such as Majestic Hall, Bridal Chamber, and Fat Man’s Misery.

Suitable for all ages and requires moderate walking and stairs (about 200 total steps).

Ideal for first-time visitors, children, and those preferring an easy walk.

2. Lantern Tour

Duration: 90 minutes

A spookier, more atmospheric journey into undeveloped portions of the cave. Each participant carries a handheld lantern, and the guide shares stories blending cave lore, geology, and ghost tales.

Designed for ages 8 and up.

Not suitable for those with claustrophobia or who prefer well-lit environments.

Offers a historical immersion, mimicking 19th-century cave exploration.

3. Expedition Caving Tour

Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours

This rugged adventure takes visitors into the undeveloped Manitou Grand Caverns section. It involves crawling through tight spaces, climbing over rocks, and getting muddy.

Helmets, headlamps, and gloves are provided. Participants must wear sturdy shoes and bring a change of clothes.

Available only to those 13+ and in good physical condition.

Requires reservations and has limited capacity.

Offers a raw and authentic caving experience, focusing on natural geology and cave biology.

Above-Ground Adventures

Cave of the Winds is more than just a cave-it’s a full mountain park with adrenaline attractions set on dramatic cliff faces overlooking the canyon.

1. Wind Walker Challenge Course

A three-story ropes course perched 600 feet above the canyon floor.

Features rope bridges, swinging steps, balance challenges, and tightrope-style walks.

Harness-secured, with attendants monitoring all participants.

Suitable for adults and kids 48" and taller.

2. Terror-dactyl

A high-thrill, cliff-edge swing that launches riders over the canyon at speeds approaching 100 mph.

Riders are released from a platform into a free-fall and then swing in a pendulum motion hundreds of feet above the canyon.

Not for the faint of heart-one of the most extreme rides of its kind in the U.S.

Weight and height restrictions apply.

3. Bat-a-Pult Zip Line

A dual-line seated zip ride that carries you forward and backward across Williams Canyon.

Great for moderate thrill-seekers and families.

Allows riders to enjoy aerial views without the extremity of a drop.

4. Via Ferrata and Zip Line

A guided climbing experience along iron rungs and cables mounted on cliff faces.

Combines hiking, climbing, and zip-lining.

Requires helmets, harnesses, and a safety briefing. Participants must be in good shape and unafraid of heights.

One of the most scenic and physically engaging activities in the park.

5. Family Activities

Climbing walls, gemstone sluice mining, a virtual-reality theater experience, and educational exhibits are also available.

The on-site gift shop offers souvenirs, snacks, and geology-themed merchandise.

Visitor Information

Operating Hours: Vary seasonally. In summer (Memorial Day to Labor Day), the park generally opens at 9 AM and closes between 6–7 PM. Off-season hours typically begin at 10 AM and end around 5 PM.

Tickets: Prices vary by tour type. Discovery Tour: ~$27 adult, $18 child. Lantern Tour: ~$34. Expedition Tour: ~$99. Above-ground rides priced separately or in combo passes.

Reservations: Highly recommended, especially for Lantern and Expedition tours, and during peak summer months.

Parking: Free and available onsite.

Accessibility: The Discovery Tour is the only one partially accessible for individuals with limited mobility. The cave itself has many stairs and uneven surfaces.

Weather Tips: The cave maintains a consistent temperature, so bring a jacket. Above-ground rides may close in bad weather, especially during thunderstorms or high winds.

Conclusion

Cave of the Winds offers one of the most unique and diverse attractions in Colorado. With a fascinating natural cave system steeped in geology and folklore, plus a full suite of cliffside thrills and family activities, it’s an ideal destination for both adventurous travelers and those seeking scenic, educational experiences. Whether you descend into the depths of the Earth or soar above a canyon rim, Cave of the Winds delivers an unforgettable blend of nature, history, and excitement.