Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park
Tucked beneath limestone cliffs along the Jefferson River, Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park protects one of the most spectacular cave systems in the Northwest — and Montana’s very first state park. The caverns feature enormous chambers of stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and helictites, while the 3,015-acre park above ground offers 10+ miles of trails, year-round camping, and sweeping views of the Jefferson River Valley.
Why Lewis and Clark Caverns Stands Out
These are among the largest known limestone caverns in the Northwest, yet they’re small enough to feel intimate. Unlike commercial caves with elevators and boardwalks, Lewis and Clark Caverns tours involve genuine adventure — you’ll duck through narrow passages, climb staircases carved into rock, and squeeze between formations that took millions of years to create. Above ground, the park’s trails wind through Douglas fir forests and open grasslands with views of three mountain ranges.
Cave Tours
| Tour | Duration | Distance | Difficulty | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Tour | 2 hours | 2 miles | Strenuous — 100+ stairs up, 500+ down | Adventurous adults, older kids |
| Paradise Tour | 1.5 hours | 1 mile | Easy — mostly level, ~15 stairs | Families, accessibility needs, claustrophobia |
| Candlelight Tour | ~2 hours | Varies | Moderate | Unique winter experience (December only) |
Tour Season: May 1 through September 30. Tickets are highly recommended to be reserved in advance — unsold tickets are available first-come, first-served at the park. The cave maintains a constant 50°F with over 90% humidity year-round, so bring a light jacket even in August.
Insider Tip: The Classic Tour is genuinely strenuous — you’ll climb over 100 stairs ascending and descend more than 500. It’s not recommended for children under 5 or anyone with claustrophobia or mobility concerns. The Paradise Tour visits the largest and most decorated rooms, including the spectacular Paradise Room, and is the better choice for families with small children.
Hiking Trails
| Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nature Loop Trail | 0.25 miles | Easy | Interpretive signs, family-friendly |
| Fishing Access Trail | 1.3 miles | Easy | Leisurely walk to Jefferson River |
| Greer Gulch Loop | 2 miles | Moderate | Scenic views, extends Nature Loop |
| Danmore Gypsum Mine Trail | 2 miles RT | Moderate | Historic mine site, geological interest |
| Cave Gulch Trail | 1.9 miles | Strenuous | 1,000 ft elevation gain to Cave Visitor Center |
| Grand Loop | 5.9–7 miles | Strenuous | Combines multiple trails for full-park experience |
Camping
The campground operates year-round, offering 40 campsites, 3 cabins, and a wall tent — all reservable online. Hiker/biker sites are first-come, first-served. Seasonal amenities (showers, comfort stations, potable water) are available May through September. During winter months, vault toilets are available but running water is shut off.
Visitor Essentials
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Entrance Fee | $8/non-resident vehicle (free for campers) |
| Cave Tours | May 1 – September 30 (advance booking recommended) |
| Visitor Center | 9 AM – 4:30 PM daily (May–Sep), reduced hours off-season |
| Cave Temperature | 50°F (10°C) constant, 90%+ humidity — bring a jacket |
| Bat Advisory | Do not wear clothing/shoes worn in other caves (White Nose Syndrome prevention) |
| Park Size | 3,015 acres |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which cave tour should I choose?
The Classic Tour is the full adventure — 2 miles through the most extensive section of the cave, with tight squeezes and hundreds of stairs. The Paradise Tour is shorter, easier, and visits the largest decorated rooms. Choose Paradise for families with young children or anyone who prefers a gentler experience.
Can you visit the park without doing a cave tour?
Absolutely. The park has over 10 miles of hiking and biking trails, a year-round campground, and a visitor center with exhibits and concessions. The trails and camping make it a worthwhile destination even outside cave tour season.
Are dogs allowed in the caverns?
No — dogs are not permitted inside the caverns. They are allowed in the campground and on park trails on a leash.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Montana state parks require an entrance fee?
Montana residents can enter free if they pay the state parks fee with their vehicle registration. Non-residents pay a day-use fee of approximately $8 per vehicle. No annual pass is available for non-residents.
Do I need bear spray at Montana state parks?
Bear spray is strongly recommended at most Montana state parks, especially in the western and mountainous regions. Black bears and grizzly bears are present. Carry spray, know how to use it, and follow food storage rules.
What are the best state parks near Glacier National Park?
Whitefish Lake, Wayfarers (on Flathead Lake), and Lone Pine are accessible parks near Glacier. Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi and offers excellent camping.
Can it snow in Montana state parks in summer?
Yes, snow is possible in Montana mountain parks even in July and August at higher elevations. Weather can change dramatically and quickly. Always carry layers, rain gear, and be prepared for cold conditions.
Explore More Montana State Parks
Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Montana. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Montana guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
