Chiricahua Crystal Cave

Chiricahua Crystal Cave is one of the most unique recreational attractions in the Douglas Ranger District. It is a moderately large cave (2.38 miles total passage) that is primarily horizontal, with a handful of drops less than 20 feet deep. Within the cave, twisting tunnels and narrow passages extend in all directions: vertically, horizontally, and diagonally. The geologic features of Crystal Cave are truly spectacular.

To preserve the beauty of this unique resource, which tragically has been damaged by vandals, the cave is protected by a locked gate. A key to the gate is available from the Douglas Ranger Station, and from US Forest Service-approved keyholders, with an approved permit, and $100.00 deposit. No access to the cave is permitted from April 15 to October 15, while a maternity colony of Townsend’s big-eared bats is using the cave to raise their young. Visitors must be properly equipped, and ready to take the necessary precautions to protect both themselves, and the fragile cave environment. 

Caving can be done safely, but like all outdoor activities, it carries some risk. Caving requires a certain level of physical fitness and endurance, the right equipment, and preparation. Please consider the following before you decide to go caving:

• Crystal Cave is a wild cave. There are no easy-to-follow trails and visitors may easily become lost. Surfaces can be rough and rocky, and many places require both hands and feet to maneuver over or around formations and rocks. Trips, slips, and fall hazards exist throughout the cave, with serious consequences for climbing errors.
• Trips to certain parts of the cave require more advanced knowledge and skill; some crawlways are less than two ft. in diameter, and some chimney climbs have exposures of over 40 ft.
• Children (under 18 yrs. old) must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. While it is up to the parents and trip leader to decide if a child can go on a trip, be aware that Crystal has some challenges that will make travel difficult for them, especially if their guides are also unfamiliar with the cave.
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