There are only two commercial caverns in Arizona – Colossal Cave and Kartchner Caverns – so it’s no wonder why they’re both always so busy. Next time you’re in the mood for a less crowded adventure, check out Cave of the Bells. Perhaps the most hidden cave in Arizona, this undeveloped wonder is so secretive, you need a key to get inside. Intrigued yet? Just wait until you see what lies beneath the surface.
Located in Sawmill Canyon at the end of a bumpy dirt road, Cave of the Bells is perhaps the most remote publicly-accessible cave in Arizona.
Google/cambuster6 Wheat It’s tucked away on the eastern slopes of the Santa Rita Mountains, and without this sign marking the entrance, hardly anyone would know it exists.
You will need to rappel down into the cave, so it’s only recommended for those with prior experience.
Google/Warren Lynn The descent isn’t too steep or difficult, however, so you shouldn’t have too much trouble as long as you know what you’re doing.
The cave is also not suitable for claustrophobes, as there are several small passageways to crawl through.
Google/Warren Lynn Once you see what’s hiding in the deepest, darkest depths of the underground, however, the tight squeezes will be totally worth the discomfort.
About 80 meters below the entrance level lies a large, subterranean lake that has likely existed for ages.
Google/Warren Lynn Even though warm air rises and cold air sinks, the lake is noticeably warmer than the air on the surface. This leads scientists to believe that the lake is heated by sources even further below.
In an effort to protect against vandalism, Cave of the Bells is locked.
Google/Warren Lynn You will need a key, which can be obtained at the Forest Supervisor’s Office in Tucson, to access it. Please note: a $100 deposit is required, but it will be returned when you bring back the keys.
For directions to the cave, visit the U.S. Forest Service website.
Google Maps Please call (520) 388-8300 with any questions or to make a (required) reservation.
Have you ever visited Cave of the Bells? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience! Tell us in the comments. Don’t forget to check out our previous article for another hidden cave in Arizona!
Google/cambuster6 Wheat
It’s tucked away on the eastern slopes of the Santa Rita Mountains, and without this sign marking the entrance, hardly anyone would know it exists.
Google/Warren Lynn
The descent isn’t too steep or difficult, however, so you shouldn’t have too much trouble as long as you know what you’re doing.
Once you see what’s hiding in the deepest, darkest depths of the underground, however, the tight squeezes will be totally worth the discomfort.
Even though warm air rises and cold air sinks, the lake is noticeably warmer than the air on the surface. This leads scientists to believe that the lake is heated by sources even further below.
You will need a key, which can be obtained at the Forest Supervisor’s Office in Tucson, to access it. Please note: a $100 deposit is required, but it will be returned when you bring back the keys.
Google Maps
Please call (520) 388-8300 with any questions or to make a (required) reservation.
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Address: Cave of the Bells, Santa Rita Mountains, Patagonia, AZ 85624, USA
