After four years of being closed for restoration, Crystal Cave in Sequoia National Park has reopened to the public in 2025! Tour dates will be available from May 23-September 7, 2025. Tour times will be from 9am to 3pm. This stunning underground wonder, known for its sparkling mineral formations, will once again offer visitors a chance to explore its breathtaking beauty and unique history. It’s a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike!
Crystal Cave, located in Sequoia National Park, California, was first discovered in 1918 by Park employees. Public tours began in 1940, and the cave has been a popular visitor attraction ever since. The cave is formed of marble and features stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and other unique mineral formations. Alex Medley discovered the cave on April 28, 1918.
The cave opened to the public for tours on May 29, 1940. Crystal Cave, like many caves in the park, is formed by the dissolution of marble rock over time by groundwater. The cave is home to a variety of geological features, including stalactites, stalagmites, and other unique mineral formations.
Sequoia Parks Conservancy offers guided tours of the cave, providing visitors with a chance to explore its history and geology
Crystal Cave was closed due to damage sustained from the KNP Complex wildfire in 2021 and subsequent winter storms, creating unsafe conditions for visitation. The wildfire caused damage to the surrounding area, including the road and infrastructure leading to the cave. Winter storms further impacted the access road, making it unsafe for visitors.
The KNP Complex wildfire caused damage to the road and infrastructure leading to the cave, and subsequent winter storms further degraded the access road. The wildfire left behind numerous dead-standing trees that posed a safety hazard. The solar-powered lighting system that illuminates the cave was also damaged and needed to be restored.
For more information about tours and shuttles, contact Visit Visalia.