Crystal Cave Tours and Activities

Sequoia National Park showing caving
Sequoia National Park
Crystal Cave featuring caves
Sequoia National Park featuring caving
Crystal Cave featuring a cascade and forests

Discover the unique underground world of Sequoia National Park as you crawl, walk and climb through a twisting network of dark caves. 

Cross through the spiderweb-like gate of Crystal Cave and enter the mysterious underworld of Sequoia National Park. The area is home to more than 200 marble caverns, but Crystal Cave is a rarity in that it is open to the public for guided tours.

Visitors of all ages can appreciate the standard 50-minute Family Tour. Learn about the history of the cave and some of its top features as your guide takes you from room to room along paved, well-lit pathways.

On the 1.5-hour Discovery Tour, experience Crystal Cave's geology in greater depth. Learn about the fascinating plants and animals that live in and around the cave. A naturalist takes you along the trails outside and then leads you through the caves on a flashlight-lit tour.

For the complete Crystal Cave experience, join the Wild Cave Tour. This intense, belly-crawling tour lasts 4 to 6 hours. Crawl through narrow passageways and climb down steep drops. As you explore, your guide will explain how all the geological formations around you, such as soda straws and cave pearls, were formed.

Crystal Cave provides all the equipment necessary for a safe and fun tour. Be prepared to get dirty as you scramble through the cave. You must be in good physical shape to go on the Wild Cave Tour.

Visit Crystal Caves between mid May and September. Because of their remote location, the caves can close unexpectedly, so visit their official website for the most up-to-date information.

Note that tour tickets are not sold at the site. Purchase tickets beforehand online or at the visitor centers of Lodgepole or Foothills. It is about a 1-hour drive to Crystal Cave from either visitor center. Allow extra time to walk 0.5 miles (0.8 kilometers) to the cave entrance. Remember to bring a jacket no matter how warm or cold it is outside, the temperature is always about 50 F (10 C) inside the caves.

Popular places to visit

Giant Forest Museum which includes interior views as well as a small group of people

Giant Forest Museum

Learn all about the massive, cloud-skimming tree species that populate the nearby Giant Forest at this small but fascinating museum.

Giant Forest Museum
Sequoia National Park featuring forest scenes

Big Trees Trail

One of the world’s largest trees rises from the heart of a flat and accessible trail meandering through one of the biggest sequoia groves on the planet.

Big Trees Trail
Sequoia National Park featuring forest scenes as well as a small group of people

General Sherman Tree

The world’s largest tree by volume, this giant sequoia is more than 2,000 years old. You must see it in place to fully appreciate its colossal size.

General Sherman Tree
The Congress Trail

The Congress Trail

Enjoy a trip to The Congress Trail and popular activities such as hiking in Sequoia National Park. While you're in the area, wander around the natural setting.

The Congress Trail
Sequoia National Park featuring forest scenes

Tunnel Log

An innovative solution to a fallen sequoia tree on the road provides a rare and exciting experience for walkers and drivers.

Tunnel Log
Moro Rock

Moro Rock

Explore the lovely green spaces of Moro Rock and also enjoy the hiking trails in Sequoia National Park. Wander the riverfront or discover the mountain views in this family-friendly area.

Moro Rock

Top Crystal Cave Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Wuksachi Lodge

Wuksachi Lodge

2.5 out of 5
64740 Wuksachi Way Wuksachi Vi, Sequoia National Park, CA
Wuksachi Lodge
Stony Creek Lodge

Stony Creek Lodge

3 out of 5
65569 Generals Highway, Kings Canyon National Park, CA
Stony Creek Lodge
The River Inn

The River Inn

2 out of 5
45176 Sierra Drive, Three Rivers, CA
The River Inn
Comfort Inn & Suites Sequoia/Kings Canyon

Comfort Inn & Suites Sequoia/Kings Canyon

2.5 out of 5
40820 Sierra Dr, Three Rivers, CA
Comfort Inn & Suites Sequoia/Kings Canyon
The Gateway Restaurant & Lodge

The Gateway Restaurant & Lodge

2.5 out of 5
45978 Sierra Drive, Three Rivers, CA
The Gateway Restaurant & Lodge
Montecito Sequoia Lodge

Montecito Sequoia Lodge

2.5 out of 5
63410 Generals Highway, Kings Canyon National Park, CA
Montecito Sequoia Lodge
Western Holiday Lodge Three Rivers

Western Holiday Lodge Three Rivers

2 out of 5
40105 Sierra Dr, Three Rivers, CA
Western Holiday Lodge Three Rivers
*Specials* 😍 Stunning Main Fork "Kaweah River House" -1/2 Mile to Sequoia Park

*Specials* 😍 Stunning Main Fork "Kaweah River House" -1/2 Mile to Sequoia Park

Three Rivers
*Specials* 😍 Stunning Main Fork "Kaweah River House" -1/2 Mile to Sequoia Park
7.5 Acre Sprawling Sequoia Estate with Hot Tub, Private Pond and Flume hike

7.5 Acre Sprawling Sequoia Estate with Hot Tub, Private Pond and Flume hike

Three Rivers
7.5 Acre Sprawling Sequoia Estate with Hot Tub, Private Pond and Flume hike
See all 484 properties in Crystal Cave
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Crystal Cave

Near Crystal Cave in Three Rivers, California, visitors can enjoy a range of activities including hiking and camping. The area boasts several scenic hiking trails that cater to various skill levels, providing stunning views of the natural surroundings. Whether you're keen on a leisurely stroll or a challenging trek, there's something for everyone to experience the beauty of this remarkable location.

Shopping

In Three Rivers, enjoy local shops offering unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the Visalia Mall, about 32.2km away, featuring a range of stores from fashion to homewares, perfect for finding that special memento of your trip.

Recreation

Our Place Playground, located 17.7km from Crystal Cave, offers a family-friendly atmosphere with outdoor fun. Horse Creek Recreation Area, 24.1km away, invites relaxation amidst nature, perfect for unwinding. For sports enthusiasts, Exeter Public Golf Course, 43.5km from the cave, provides a delightful golfing experience in the great outdoors.

Adventure

At Crystal Cave, explore the Big Trees Trail, a scenic hike 4.8km away, or venture to the Congress Trail, located 6.4km from the cave, both offering stunning outdoor vistas. For a longer trek, the Big Stump Trail awaits 19.3km away, promising adventure and breathtaking scenery.

Nightlife

In Three Rivers, the nightlife is serene yet captivating. Enjoy a rustic dinner at the Gateway Restaurant, then unwind under the stars at the Three Rivers Historical Museum for seasonal events. For a local brew, pop into the Sierra Nevada Adventure Company’s taproom, where camaraderie thrives.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Crystal Cave

When visiting Crystal Cave in Three Rivers, California, you'll find a range of attractions that cater to outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Explore nearby national parks, symbolic landmarks, and unique rock formations. Just a short drive away, you can discover additional crystal caves, including those in Bella Vista and Yanchep, enhancing your scenic experience in this beautiful area.

  • General Sherman Tree: This iconic giant sequoia is the largest tree on Earth by volume and stands as a symbol of the natural beauty of the region. Located 6.4km from Crystal Cave, it's a must-see for its immense size and historical significance, capturing the essence of ancient forests.
  • Sequoia National Parks Ash Mountain Entrance: About 11.3km away, this entrance offers an exhilarating gateway to adventure. With stunning scenery, hiking trails, and opportunities for outdoor activities, it’s perfect for nature lovers seeking to explore the majestic landscapes of Sequoia National Park.
  • Giant Forest Museum: Situated 4.8km from Crystal Cave, this museum is dedicated to the natural history and ecology of the giant sequoias. It provides an insightful cultural experience, showcasing exhibits that highlight the importance of conservation and the unique ecosystem of the Giant Forest.

Best time to go to Crystal Cave

The best time to visit Crystal Cave can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Crystal Cave falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain (dry). The coolest average temperature around Crystal Cave falls in December, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January49.1°F (9.5°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February49.8°F (9.9°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March53.2°F (11.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April59.0°F (15.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
May66.4°F (19.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
June76.5°F (24.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July83.7°F (28.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August82.6°F (28.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September77.4°F (25.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
October66.4°F (19.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
November55.4°F (13.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
December48.4°F (9.1°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Crystal Cave

To save on your trip to Crystal Cave, plan your visit between January and March for lower accommodation prices. Booking a month in advance or checking Expedia for last-minute deals can yield significant savings. Opt for a Wednesday stay to avoid peak prices, as Saturdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia’s filtering tools to find budget-friendly hotels and consider package deals that combine flights, accommodation, and activities for added savings. Don't forget to explore free activities in the area to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Crystal Cave are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Crystal Cave is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Crystal Cave is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Crystal Cave is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you’re looking for. To discover the most affordable options and deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your hotel booking for Crystal Cave with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.