Background

Coronado Cave: An Underground Adventure

Explore the depths of Coronado Cave in Arizona's Coronado National Memorial, a 600-foot cavern of natural beauty and historical intrigue.

4.9

Explore the depths of Coronado Cave, a large, undeveloped cavern within Coronado National Memorial near Hereford, Arizona. This 600-foot-long cave offers a unique opportunity to discover impressive rock formations and experience the thrill of self-guided exploration.

A brief summary to Coronado Cave

  • Monday 8 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-4 pm
  • Friday 8 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Bring at least two reliable light sources per person; cell phone flashlights are insufficient.
  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes and gloves for navigating the rocky trail and cave interior.
  • Check in at the visitor center for the latest information on cave safety, conditions, and regulations.
  • Be prepared for a moderately strenuous uphill hike to the cave entrance.
  • Avoid touching cave formations to protect their delicate growth and preserve the environment.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    From Hereford, AZ, drive towards the Coronado National Memorial Visitor Center on East Montezuma Canyon Road. The parking area for the Coronado Cave Trail is approximately 0.25 miles west of the visitor center on the north side of the road. Park here and begin the 0.5-mile hike to the cave entrance. There is no fee to enter the Memorial. Parking is free.

  • Walking

    From the Coronado National Memorial Visitor Center, walk west on East Montezuma Canyon Road for approximately 0.25 miles. The parking area for the Coronado Cave Trail will be on your right. From there, follow the trail 0.5 miles to the cave entrance. Remember to bring plenty of water for the hike.

Unlock the Best of Coronado Cave

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Coronado Cave

Coronado Cave, nestled within the Coronado National Memorial in southern Arizona, offers a unique and adventurous experience for those willing to descend into its cool depths. This large, undeveloped cave stretches approximately 600 feet in length and up to 70 feet in width, providing ample space to explore its geological wonders. The cave's formation began roughly 250-300 million years ago when the region was submerged under a shallow sea. Over time, limestone, composed of the remains of ancient marine life, formed and was subsequently dissolved by water seeping through cracks, creating the cavernous space. Inside, you'll discover a variety of formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones, and helictites, showcasing the ongoing geological processes. Historically, the cave has served as a shelter and hideout for various groups, including Middle Archaic people, Apache tribes, Mexican miners, and European settlers. Legends whisper of its use as a refuge by Apaches evading the U.S. Army, and arrowheads were once commonly found within its depths. Today, Coronado Cave remains one of the few open, undeveloped caves in southern Arizona, inviting visitors to connect with both natural history and human stories. To ensure the preservation of this fragile environment, several rules are in place: The cave is closed between sunset and sunrise. Touching formations or cave walls is prohibited to prevent damage and disruption of growth. Pack out all trash, and refrain from eating inside the cave to protect the delicate ecosystem. Prepare for a moderately strenuous 0.5-mile hike to the cave entrance, involving an elevation gain of 500 feet. The trail is rocky with stone steps, and the descent into the cave requires scrambling over slick boulders. Bring at least two sources of light per person, sturdy shoes, and gloves to protect your hands while navigating the cave.

Popular Experiences near Coronado Cave

Popular Hotels near Coronado Cave

Select Currency