Welcome to Idaho's Mammoth Cave

Explore a unique and awe-inspiring underground landscape at your own personal pace with our self-guided tours.

Idaho’s Mammoth Cave is located eight miles north of Shoshone, Idaho, on the scenic State Highway 75. Starting May 4th, 2024, summer hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., 7 days a week, including all major holidays. After Labor Day (September 2nd), we will switch to weekends only (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays) before we officially close for the winter in October. There is an established trail, and lanterns are provided. If you have flashlights, they are always good to bring along. Wearing a light jacket is recommended. The self-guided tour takes about 1/2 hour. You walk about 1/4 mile in and 1/4 mile out. Admission includes all three attractions – cave tour, Shoshone Bird Museum, and Richard Arthur Olsen Museum of Natural History, making it an unparalleled experience for history and nature enthusiasts looking for things to do in Idaho. Reservations are not required. Please arrive before 5 p.m for the last tours of the day before closing. We are not handicap accessible. Dogs are not allowed.

Shoshone Bird Museum of Natural History

The Shoshone Bird Museum of Natural History features birds from all corners of the globe, meticulously mounted and displayed to showcase their intricate colors and patterns. Also on view are butterflies of the world, fish and dinosaur fossils, animals from around the globe, pioneer artifacts, Stone Age artifacts,  American Indian artifacts, and thousands of artifacts from cultures ranging from Africa to South America, among many other displays. This wealth of exhibits has earned the museum the nickname “The Smithsonian of the Desert” and is a must-see destination for any natural history enthusiast.

Richard Arthur Olsen Museum of Natural History

Carrying on our founder’s mission to educate those who want to learn more about natural objects, worldwide histories, and cultures of the past, Idaho’s Mammoth Cave recently expanded with the opening of a second museum, dubbed the Richard Arthur Olsen Museum of Natural History that he planned to share before his passing in 2019. This new addition to the complex offers visitors an even more comprehensive view of the natural and cultural history of the world. Exhibits include an amazing array of fossils, rocks, gemstones, animals, and cultural artifacts worldwide, making it one of the most facinating things to do in Idaho.

Cave & Museum Attractions

Idaho Attractions

Mammoth Cave

Idaho’s Mammoth Cave is, at this time, the largest volcanic cave in the world open to the public.

Idaho Attractions

Anthropology

At the Shoshone Bird Museum Of Natural History, there are plenty of opportunities to experience and appreciate cultural history from around the world.

Fossils

The fossils our museums feature create a sense of wonder and an understanding of a land before time.

Idaho Attractions

Pottery & Baskets

At the Shoshone Bird Museum Of Natural History, we feature pottery and baskets that were used in ancient times from all over the world.

Idaho Attractions

Animals

The Shoshone Bird Museum features exhibits that display the beauty of animals and the pertinent roles they play in nature.

Idaho Attractions

Rocks & Coral

The Shoshone Bird Museum Of Natural History displays feature fine rocks, minerals, and gemstones from around the world.

Our Story

When you’re driving through southern Idaho on Highway 75, you’ll see the sign for “Idaho’s Mammoth Cave” eight miles north of Shoshone. If you take the time to drive the dusty mile off the highway, you’ll discover what a beautiful diamond in the rough awaits you, and what a rich history it has.

Testimonials

Amanda Cole

It was amazing! You really feel like a real explorer going into the cave. The museum was awesome too! So much artifacts!

Mary Halsema

Packed full of historic art, Aztec & Myan artifacts, dinosaur bones, taxidermied animals from across the world and exciting spelunking adventures!

Neftali Nuñez

The place is amazing. It was one of the most impressive places I visited when I was in Idaho!

Todd Ashworth

Cave is a short hike. Lanters are provided. Bring a coat. The museum has a ton of animals and artifacts. One of the most unique museum’s I have ever seen. It was unexpected for sure…

Mark Taylor

You walk in, they hand you flashlights, you explore! So much fun discovering all they have to offer. The bird museum is the Smithsonian of the desert.

Heather Armstrong

Definitely a hidden gem! We spent about three hours here and didn’t get to see everything. Looking forward to visiting again.