Mercer Caverns
Hidden beneath the picturesque landscapes of Calaveras County, California, lies an underground wonder that has captured the imagination of explorers and tourists alike for over a century - Mercer Caverns
Timeless Rocks & GEMS
This natural marvel, formed over millions of years, offers visitors a journey into the depths of Earth's history and a chance to witness the breathtaking beauty of stalactites, stalagmites, and other subterranean wonders.
MERCER CAVERNS HISTORY
Mercer Caverns owes its name and discovery to Walter J. Mercer, a local gold prospector. In 1885, Mercer was exploring a nearby cave when he heard the sound of rushing water. Following the sound, he stumbled upon an opening that led to what is now known as Mercer Caverns. The cave was officially opened to the public in 1885, making it one of California’s oldest tourist attractions.
The cave system itself is believed to be around 1.5 million years old, created by the slow dissolving action of water on the limestone bedrock. This geological wonder boasts a series of chambers and passages, each adorned with intricate formations of dripstone, creating a subterranean art gallery that captivates the senses.
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We're only 15 minutes from Mercer Caverns.
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WHAT TO SEE
1. The Great Room
The centerpiece of Mercer Caverns is the Great Room, a massive chamber that showcases some of the most impressive formations in the cave. Here, visitors are greeted by colossal stalactites and stalagmites that have been forming for millennia. The delicate, translucent curtains of calcite, known as draperies, hang like ethereal veils from the cave ceiling.
2. The Bridal Chamber
Another highlight of Mercer Caverns is the Bridal Chamber, a small, intimate space adorned with stunning formations that resemble cascading bridal veils. The chamber’s romantic ambiance and natural beauty make it a popular spot for engagements and weddings, adding a touch of enchantment to the cave experience.
3. The Wine Room
Named for its wine barrel-shaped formation, the Wine Room is another must-see area within Mercer Caverns. Here, visitors can marvel at the unique and imaginative shapes created by the natural processes of mineral deposition.
4. The Curtain Room
As the name suggests, the Curtain Room features an array of exquisite draperies, creating a scene that feels like something out of a fairy tale. The intricate folds and curves of these formations are a testament to the power of water over time.
5. The Underground Gardens
The cave’s beauty extends beyond its formations. Mercer Caverns boasts a lush underground garden where ferns and other delicate plant life thrive in the constant, cool, and damp conditions. These hidden pockets of life add an extra layer of wonder to the underground experience.
Guided Tours
Exploring the cave is best done through one of Mercer Caverns' guided tours. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the geological processes that formed the cave and share captivating stories about its history and discovery. Tours cater to various interests and fitness levels, making them accessible to a wide range of visitors.
Adventure Tours
For the more adventurous explorers, Mercer Caverns offers special adventure tours that delve deeper into the cave system. These tours may involve crawling through narrow passages and require a higher level of physical fitness, providing a more exhilarating and challenging experience.
GEM Mining
Mercer Caverns also offers gem mining activities, where visitors can pan for gemstones and fossils in specially designed mining sluices. It's a fun and educational activity for families and young geologists in the making.
Gift Shop and Museum
Before or after your cave tour, don't forget to visit the gift shop and museum on-site. Here, you can find unique souvenirs, educational materials, and a selection of rocks and minerals to take home as reminders of your underground adventure.
RELATED QUESTIONS
Mercer Caves have the following admission fees:Â Adults: $16. Children (ages 3 to 12): $9.
Some areas of the caverns still receive water causing formation growth but there are others that are dry where the formations are not growing.
The difference between Moaning Caverns and Mercer Caverns is the main attractions during at tour. Moaning Caverns main attraction is the massive vertical chamber known as the “Saratoga Room,” which is so large that it can hold the entire Statue of Liberty, while Mercer Caverns main attraction is its intricate rock formations, including stunning stalactites, stalagmites, draperies, and other unique formations.Â
The main tour last about 45 minutes and covers a quarter mile on varied paths, including stairs. There are a total of 440 steps.