Mystery Cave:
Advanced Educational Tour
This special group tour provides a more detailed examination of both underground and above ground cave geology, and requires advanced reservations. It is typically offered to groups of ten or more that desire additional study of caves and karst topography, including college and advanced high school groups.
Participants in this tour should have an interest in geology, be in good physical shape, and be able to be on their feet for up to five hours.
Underground
The underground component involves traveling the one-hour and two-hour tour routes. The in-cave portion often includes discussion on rock types, depositional environments, cave minerals, passage morphology, cave sediments, water levels, speleothem dating, and overall cave development.
Above ground
The above ground portion, weather permitting, includes an examination of a subsidence sinkhole and a visit to Cherry Grove Blind Valley Scientific and Natural Area (5.5 miles away).
What to expect
- This activity takes from four to six hours.
- Be prepared for the chilly 48 degree underground conditions. Bring warm clothing and solid non-slip footwear. Leather boots are recommended.
- Outdoor dress should be appropriate for the season. Be prepared to trek through thick vegetation.
- Participants must provide their own transportation between the cave entrances and other karst stops (about 15 miles round trip).
Tour schedule
Advanced educational tours must be pre-arranged.
Call 507-937-3251 to schedule.
Tour rates
$18 per person (10 person minimum)
Reservations can be made for tours at Mystery Cave and Soudan Underground Mine online or by calling 866-857-2757.