Idaho is home to tons of caves, both above and below ground. Just check out this list of a few of the most fascinating and well known caves in our state. There’s a lot to explore! However, the caves featured here definitely fly under the radar when it comes to caving in Idaho. Few people know these caves even exist because they are literally located in the middle of nowhere. Their remote location makes it easy for people to pass by them without even noticing. If you’re looking for a unique adventure, consider checking out these stunning underground caves. You can hike right into them, and they are sure to blow you away.
Located far from any city and off of a bumpy, muddy road is a place called the Civil Defense Caves. These underground caves are hiding out quite literally in the middle of nowhere, but you'll definitely want to find them.
The hidden caves are located just north of St. Anthony. To get to them, you'll definitely need a vehicle that can handle some tough terrain. The area can be hard to find, especially since the "parking lot" is really just a patch of mud.
Once you get there, you'll spot a good sized plaque that explains a bit of the history behind the caves. The odd name dates back around 30 years. This is when the Fremont County Department of Civil Defense used the caves as a potential fallout shelter. How crazy is that?
As you approach the cave, you'll see a large opening in the ground. Don't let the pictures fool you. The opening is pretty large. It's as if the cave is just beckoning to be explored!
Be careful as you descend into the cave. The ground is covered in large rocks. The caves are technically considered to be lava tubes which maintain a chilly temperature all year long. You might need to bring a sweater even on the hottest day of summer.
As you continue hiking into the cave, the ceiling begins to get lower and it isn't long before you are shrouded in absolute darkness. Definitely bring a flashlight with you when you explore the caves.
It's easy to see why the government used this as a fallout shelter. The cave is absolutely humongous (they estimate it could hold 5,000 people) and the basalt rock would theoretically provide a good block from radiation.
The caves stretch an amazing 3,000 feet down into the earth. The further you go back, the more tight it becomes. Eventually you'll be forced to shimmy your way through the rocks.
The hike into the caves is pretty easy, but be sure to wear protective gear just in case. The Civil Defense Caves would make for an awesome adventure if you're craving a break from civilization.
To get to the caves from Rexburg, you'll travel north on the Salem Highway. After about 16 miles you'll spot a small pile of yellow painted rocks and turn right. You'll travel about 5 miles before you reach the cave's parking lot.
