Explore Arnold
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
First things first
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.
Geography
Where Mercer Caverns sits
Mercer Caverns is a narrow, steeply descending cave formed in the marble of the Calaveras Formation a mile north of Murphys.
Instead of one great chamber it is a chain of small rooms hung with stalactites, flowstone and delicate aragonite — the same limestone belt that produced the other Calaveras County caves.
It is about 9 miles down Highway 4 from Chalet Bruin and Koda Loft — roughly 20 minutes.
- Region
- Sierra Nevada foothills, Gold Country
- County
- Calaveras County
- Elevation
- About 2,200 ft
- Nearest town
- Murphys, one mile south
- Getting there
- Sheep Ranch Road, off Highway 4 through Murphys
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.
SLEEP COMFORTABLY IN ARNOLD
We're only 15 minutes from Mercer Caverns.
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.
Nearby
Keep exploring
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.
Stay nearby
Cabins near Mercer Caverns
Mercer Caverns sits just above Murphys, roughly 20 minutes from both cabins, and pairs neatly with an afternoon on Main Street. Looking for Murphys area vacation rentals? Arnold Haven has two dog-friendly cabins — a five-bedroom A-frame chalet that sleeps 12 and a two-bedroom loft that sleeps 4. Minimum stay is 2 nights, check-in is at 3pm and check-out at 11am.
- Check-in
- Self check-in, 3pm
- Cancellation
- Full refund 5+ days ahead; holidays 30 days
Check live availability, see your full price, and book securely — ID check and payment are handled by Stripe.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
How much does Mercer Caverns cost?+
Mercer Caves have the following admission fees: Adults: $16. Children (ages 3 to 12): $9.
Is the Mercer Caverns still forming?+
Some areas of the caverns still receive water causing formation growth but there are others that are dry where the formations are not growing.
What is the difference between moaning and Mercer Caverns?+
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.
How long is Mercer Caverns tour?+
The main tour last about **45 minutes** and covers a quarter mile on varied paths, including stairs. There are a total of 440 steps.