Grand Canyon Caverns Travel Guide — Arizona

Located 200 feet below the surface, these dry caverns offer guided tours through vast underground chambers, including an underground hotel room and a fallout shelter. Our team at Visit America has explored the depths and details to bring you the most confident and specific guide to visiting this unique Arizona destination.

Why Visit Grand Canyon Caverns

The Grand Canyon Caverns offer an unparalleled subterranean experience, setting them apart from other attractions in the American Southwest. We recommend a visit for anyone seeking a blend of natural wonder, history, and adventure. These are among the largest dry caverns in the United States, a geological marvel formed over 65 million years ago within limestone that was once the bottom of an ancient inland sea. Unlike many wet cave systems, the Grand Canyon Caverns boast an incredibly dry atmosphere, maintaining a consistent 62 degrees Fahrenheit (13 degrees Celsius) year-round, making it a comfortable escape from the Arizona heat or a cozy retreat in cooler months.

Beyond the geological significance, the caverns hold a fascinating human history, having served as a natural fallout shelter during the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962. This unique blend of natural and historical intrigue provides a rich backdrop for exploration. We believe the opportunity to descend 21 stories (200-300 feet) into the earth via elevator and explore these vast chambers is a truly memorable experience.

Who It's Best For

The Grand Canyon Caverns offer something for nearly everyone, from casual sightseers to avid adventurers. Families with young children will appreciate the accessible Short Tour, which is wheelchair-friendly and free for ages 3 and under. Those seeking a more in-depth experience can opt for the Standard Tour, which includes some inclines and stairs but remains suitable for most ages and fitness levels.

For the truly adventurous, the Explorer and Wild Tours provide an authentic spelunking experience, complete with helmets and headlamps, navigating rugged terrain and tight passages. These tours are ideal for physically fit individuals aged 16 and 18+, respectively, who are comfortable with confined spaces and challenging climbs. Our team finds that the Caverns also appeal to history buffs interested in Route 66 Americana, as the complex itself is a classic roadside attraction. Furthermore, the surrounding 800 acres offer hiking and biking trails, making it a great base for outdoor enthusiasts.

Is It Worth Visiting?

Absolutely, our team firmly believes that visiting Grand Canyon Caverns is worth the trip for its unique geological features and historical significance. The caverns stand out as one of the largest dry cave systems in the world, offering a distinct experience compared to the more common wet caves. The consistent 62-degree temperature underground provides a welcome respite, especially during Arizona's hot summer months.

While the famous underground hotel room is no longer available for overnight stays due to preservation efforts by the Havasupai Tribe, the variety of guided tours still provides ample opportunity to explore the vast chambers, including the historic fallout shelter section. The accessibility of the Short Tour ensures that almost everyone can experience this natural wonder. We find that the entire complex, with its motel, RV park, diner, and gift shop, offers a charming, old-school Route 66 vibe that adds to its appeal.

Getting There & Parking

The Grand Canyon Caverns are conveniently located directly off Historic Route 66, making them an iconic stop on any Arizona road trip. You'll find us a few miles east of Peach Springs, Arizona, and approximately 22 miles northwest of Seligman, or about 65 miles northeast of Kingman.

How to Get There

If you're traveling on Interstate 40, take the Seligman exit when heading west, or the Andy Devine Blvd. exit in Kingman when heading east, then follow Route 66. The caverns are well-marked with a large sign and are hard to miss. For those flying in, a 5,100-foot airstrip (L37) is available for cavern guests, welcoming flying clubs and located within biking or walking distance.

Parking

Ample free parking is available on-site. Guests staying at the Grand Canyon Caverns Inn have parking directly in front of their rooms. For those visiting the restaurant or taking a cavern tour, parking can be found near the RV Park. We appreciate that parking is straightforward and readily available, even for larger vehicles like RVs.

Top Things to Do

When you visit Grand Canyon Caverns, the primary draw is, of course, the incredible underground world. Our team highly recommends dedicating time to one of the guided tours to truly appreciate the scale and history of these dry caverns.

• Explore the Caverns on a Guided Tour: There are several options to suit all levels of adventure.
  • Short Tour (25 minutes, 1/4 mile): Perfect for families or those with limited time, this tour is fully wheelchair accessible and offers stunning views without strenuous climbs. As of 2026, it costs $25.95 for adults (12+), $19.95 for seniors (55+), and $15.95 for children (4-11), with ages 3 and under free. Tours depart every hour on the half hour, from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM.
  • Standard Tour (45 minutes, 3/4 mile): Our most popular option, this journey goes deeper, including some inclines and stairs, and is suitable for most ages and fitness levels. It costs $35.95 for adults (12+), $25.95 for seniors (55+), and $17.95 for children (4-11), with ages 3 and under free. Tours depart every hour on the hour, from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
  • Explorer Tour (2 hours): For those seeking more adventure, this small-group tour takes you off the main path, equipped with helmets and headlamps, through crawling and climbing sections. It requires moderate fitness and comfort in tight spaces. Participants must be 16 or older (minors with a legal guardian), and reservations are recommended. The cost is around $79.95 per person, plus a 21% gratuity for your expert guide. It's offered once daily at 1:00 PM.
  • Wild Tour (several hours): The most physically demanding option, this tour delves into unexplored areas, requiring a high level of fitness to crawl, climb, and navigate rugged terrain for several hours. Participants must be 18 or older, and reservations are recommended. The cost is around $99.95 per person, plus a 21% gratuity. It's also offered once daily at 1:00 PM.
  • Ghost Walks: For a spooky evening experience, nightly ghost walks are also available.
• Dine Underground: Experience a truly unique meal in the Cavern Grotto, 200 feet below the surface. The Combo Tour + Underground Meal offers this once-in-a-lifetime dining experience. Same-day reservations have specific cutoff times (11 AM for lunch, 2 PM for dinner).
• Explore the Surface: Beyond the caverns, there are several things to do at Grand Canyon Caverns, including the on-site diner, gift shops (including a vintage Route 66 shop), and a general store for supplies.
• Hiking and Biking: The 800-acre property features miles of nature paths for hiking and biking.
• Relax at the RV Park & Campground: Enjoy the amenities of the campground, including a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, disc golf course, and dark-sky vistas perfect for stargazing.

Grand Canyon Caverns Hiking Trails

Beyond the fascinating underground world, the Grand Canyon Caverns property extends across 800 acres, offering a surprising array of outdoor activities, including dedicated Grand Canyon Caverns hiking trails. Our team encourages visitors to explore the surface as well, especially if you enjoy getting out into the high-desert landscape.

The campground area provides direct access to several nature paths and Grand Canyon Caverns hiking trails that wind through the piñon-juniper forest. These trails are suitable for both hiking and mountain biking, providing a great way to stretch your legs and enjoy the Arizona scenery above ground. While specific trail names or lengths aren't always highlighted, the sheer acreage ensures plenty of space for a leisurely stroll or a more invigorating trek. Remember to bring water, wear appropriate footwear, and be mindful of wildlife in this rural setting.

Best Time to Visit

The Grand Canyon Caverns are open year-round, seven days a week, from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM (as of February 1, 2025), except for Christmas Day. This consistent accessibility means you can plan your visit almost any time. However, our team has some recommendations to enhance your experience.

The caverns themselves maintain a constant temperature of 62 degrees Fahrenheit (13 degrees Celsius) with zero humidity, making them a refreshing escape from the intense Arizona summer heat (June-August). Conversely, they provide a warm retreat during the cooler winter months. For surface activities like hiking and camping, the spring (April-June) and fall (September-October) offer the most pleasant weather, with mild temperatures ideal for outdoor exploration. These shoulder seasons also tend to have fewer crowds than the peak summer months. If stargazing is a priority, visiting during the new moon phase in the spring or fall will offer the darkest skies, as the campground is known for its brilliant Milky Way views.

Where to Stay Nearby

For a complete Grand Canyon Caverns lodging experience, you don't have to venture far. The Grand Canyon Caverns & Inn complex offers a range of accommodations right on-site, catering to different preferences and budgets.

• Grand Canyon Caverns Inn: The Inn provides newly renovated standard rooms with options for King, Double, or Queen beds. All rooms are ground level and include amenities like free Wi-Fi (Starlink internet), full baths, TV, heat, air conditioning, and coffee makers. Pet-friendly rooms are available for a non-refundable $40 cleaning fee.
• Cabins and Ranch House: For larger groups or those desiring more space, the complex offers cabins and even a Ranch House. The Havasupai Falls Cabin and Grand Canyon Cabin each feature two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and fully equipped kitchens, accommodating up to six guests. The Ranch House boasts three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a full kitchen, and can host up to eight guests. These options include high-speed internet and Netflix.
• Grand Canyon Caverns Campground: Our team highly recommends the on-site campground for those who prefer to sleep under the stars. It features 49 RV sites with water and 20/30/50-amp electric hookups ($46.95 per night) and 28 tent/dry-camp sites ($22 per night). Amenities include flush restrooms, hot showers, a dump station, free Wi-Fi near the lodge, laundry facilities, a general store, and a seasonal outdoor swimming pool. It's pet-friendly (leash required) and offers access to hiking and mountain biking trails. We advise booking early, especially for summer weekends.

While the famous underground hotel room is no longer available for overnight stays as of March 2026 due to tribal preservation efforts, the diverse Grand Canyon Caverns lodging options above ground ensure a comfortable stay.

For those looking to explore more of Arizona, consider extending your trip to other incredible destinations. You can find more information on the best places in Arizona on our Arizona state hub. Nearby, you might also consider a visit to Grand Canyon National Park or the iconic Monument Valley Navajo Park.

Sample 2-Day Itinerary

To help you make the most of your visit to Grand Canyon Caverns, our team has crafted a sample two-day itinerary, blending subterranean exploration with surface activities and local charm.

Day 1: Descending into the Depths & Route 66 Charm

• Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Cavern Exploration. Arrive at Grand Canyon Caverns and embark on your chosen tour. We suggest the Standard Tour for a comprehensive experience of the main chambers, or the Short Tour if you're traveling with very young children or have mobility concerns. Allow ample time for the elevator descent and the guided walk, taking in sights like the Chapel of the Ages and learning about the cave's history as a fallout shelter.
• Lunch (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Underground Dining or Cavern Grill. For a truly unique experience, consider the Combo Tour with an underground meal in the Crystal Room. Alternatively, enjoy a classic American meal at the on-site Cavern Grill, known for its burgers.
• Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Route 66 Immersion. After your cavern adventure, immerse yourself in the nostalgia of Historic Route 66. Browse the vintage Route 66 gift shop at the Caverns complex. Then, take a short drive east or west on Route 66 to explore nearby towns like Peach Springs, the community center for the Hualapai Tribe, or Seligman, considered the "Birthplace of Historic Route 66."
• Evening (5:00 PM onwards): Check-in & Stargazing. Check into your chosen Grand Canyon Caverns lodging, whether it's a room at the Inn, a cozy cabin, or an RV/tent site. Enjoy dinner at the Cavern Grill or a casual meal at your campsite. As night falls, take advantage of the dark skies at the campground for incredible stargazing.

Day 2: Surface Adventures & Local Exploration

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Hiking or Biking. Enjoy the high-desert landscape surrounding the caverns. Explore the miles of nature paths for hiking or mountain biking available on the 800-acre property. This is a great way to experience the unique flora and fauna of the region.
• Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Local Flavors. Head into Peach Springs for lunch. While a small town, it offers a glimpse into Hualapai culture and serves as a gateway to the Grand Canyon West.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Grand Canyon West or Hualapai Cultural Center. From Peach Springs, you can embark on a whitewater rafting tour of the Grand Canyon West or visit the Hualapai Cultural Center to learn more about the tribe's heritage. Alternatively, if you're interested in more unique roadside attractions, explore other points of interest along Route 66.
• Evening: Departure or Extended Stay. Depending on your travel plans, you can begin your journey home or continue exploring more of Arizona's stunning landscapes. Consider heading towards Sedona & Oak Creek Canyon for its red rock beauty, or Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend for breathtaking slot canyon and river views.

Frequently Asked Questions

Grand Canyon Caverns camping

Yes, Grand Canyon Caverns offers an extensive RV park and campground. As of 2026, there are 49 RV sites with water and 20/30/50-amp electric hookups for $46.95 per night, and 28 tent/dry-camp sites for $22 per night. Amenities include flush restrooms, hot showers, a dump station, free Wi-Fi near the lodge, laundry, a general store, and a seasonal outdoor swimming pool. The campground is pet-friendly (leash required) and provides access to hiking and mountain biking trails. We recommend booking early for summer weekends.

things to do in Peach Springs

Peach Springs, Arizona, serves as the community center for the Hualapai Tribe and a gateway to the Grand Canyon West. Beyond the Grand Canyon Caverns, things to do in Peach Springs include whitewater rafting tours on the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon West, visiting the Hualapai Cultural Center, exploring the Hualapai Lodge, and driving along the historic Route 66. You can also find ATV rides and other outdoor activities in the surrounding area.

Grand Canyon Caverns with kids

Grand Canyon Caverns is a great destination for families with kids. The Short Tour (25 minutes, 1/4 mile) is specifically designed to be family-friendly and is fully wheelchair accessible, making it easy for even the youngest visitors or those with strollers. Children aged 3 and under are free on both the Short and Standard tours. The Standard Tour (45 minutes, 3/4 mile) is also suitable for most ages and fitness levels. Above ground, kids can enjoy the seasonal outdoor pool at the campground, the disc golf course, and the hiking and biking trails.

best hotels near Grand Canyon Caverns

The best hotels near Grand Canyon Caverns are right on-site at the Grand Canyon Caverns Inn complex. This includes newly renovated standard motel rooms, as well as multi-bedroom cabins (Havasupai Falls Cabin, Grand Canyon Cabin) and a larger Ranch House, offering options for various group sizes and preferences. These accommodations offer amenities like free Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, and air conditioning. For a different experience, the Grand Canyon Caverns Campground also provides RV and tent sites with numerous amenities. In nearby Peach Springs, the Hualapai Lodge is another option.

Grand Canyon Caverns tips

Our top Grand Canyon Caverns tips include: wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and bring a light jacket, as the caverns maintain a cool 62 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. Book specialized tours (Explorer, Wild) and campground sites in advance, especially for summer weekends. While the Short Tour is wheelchair accessible, some other tours involve stairs and inclines. Take advantage of the on-site amenities like the diner, gift shops, and general store. Don't forget to look up at the night sky if you're camping, as the dark-sky vistas are excellent for stargazing. Cell service can be limited, but Wi-Fi is available near the lodge and at the Inn/RV Park.

where to stay near Grand Canyon Caverns

For where to stay near Grand Canyon Caverns, your primary and most convenient options are the accommodations directly at the Grand Canyon Caverns & Inn complex. This includes the Grand Canyon Caverns Inn motel rooms, as well as various cabins and a larger Ranch House suitable for families or groups. Additionally, the Grand Canyon Caverns Campground offers both RV sites with hookups and tent camping options, complete with amenities like hot showers and a seasonal pool. Further afield, Peach Springs offers the Hualapai Lodge, and the larger town of Kingman, about an hour away, provides more extensive lodging choices.

Our team at Visit America considers Grand Canyon Caverns a truly unique stop on any Arizona adventure. Its blend of geological wonder, historical significance, and classic Route 66 charm makes it a destination that stands out. Whether you're spelunking deep underground or enjoying the high-desert trails, the Caverns offer an unforgettable experience that goes beyond the typical tourist attraction.

Last updated: 2026-07-05 by the Visit America team.