Caves and Fossils

Surrounding Bear Lake are beautiful mountain ranges and geological wonders. These rolling hills and towering mountains offer plenty of activities to enjoy including several caving adventures and plentiful fossilized history to uncover. Everyone in the family can enjoy the adventure and experience the thousands of years of geological history that Bear Lake has to offer.

Minnetonka Cave

Minnetonka Cave is located 13 miles northwest of Bear Lake in St. Charles Canyon. This cave offers a half-mile hike filled with gorgeous stalactites, stalagmites, and banded travertine in nine rooms. During their peak season, spanning mid-June through Labor Day, over 20,000 people visit the cave and take a guided tour. Escape the heat and remember to bring a jacket because the cave stays at 40 degrees year round! Minnetonka Cave opens near Memorial weekend and is open to the public 7 days a week from 10am-530pm. Reservations can be made for groups of 15 or more people.

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Paris Ice Cave

Paris Ice Cave, located 28 miles from Conestoga Ranch in Paris Canyon, gets its name because here the ice never melts, even in the hottest summers. The best time to visit this cave is late summer or early fall when the water in the cave is nearly dry. This cave is less trafficked and a free family fun activity! Paris Ice Cave is about 9.6 miles from the mouth of Paris Canyon on a well-graded dirt road that is easily passable with almost any vehicle during the dry season. Not too far from the cave is a parking lot for your vehicle and just ahead awaits fun for the whole family to enjoy!

Click for directions additional information on Paris Ice Cave or here to help plan your visit.

Fish Dig Quarry

“The only Quarry where you keep every fossil you find!” Dig season at Fish Dig Quarry runs May 26th-September 30th. Fish Dig Quarry, located east of Bear Lake, is home to some extremely exciting fossil finds including stingray, crocodiles, and even ancient rhinos! They offer a variety of packages to meet any budget and can accommodate large groups, just call to reserve your spot.

Click for directions and additional information for Fish Dig Quarry or call 801-836-7269