Cold Water Spring State Preserve is a 60-acre nature preserve in Winneshiek County. The preserve contains and protects a spring that flows out of Cold Water Cave. The cave is an extensive cave system with approximately 16 miles of passages, making it the state’s most elaborate cave system. The cave is accessed by a man-made entrance comprised of a metal ladder that travels some 100 feet down into a dark tube. Once underground, there are no lights and conditions can get quite wet and slippery. Therefore, this cave is not the type visited by the casual tourist and only skilled and experienced spelunkers should attempt it.
Ready to go?
Step 1: Visit the website and book directly and/or call ahead to confirm their hours.
Step 2: If you are spending the night, search for Hotel Deals nearby. Read the reviews, then call the hotel directly to book and ask for a romantic, kid-friendly or pet-friendly amenity if you need it.
Step 3: If you are flying, compare Flights. Book directly with the airline, add your frequent flier number and reserve your seat.
Step 4: Estimate your driving time using Google Maps (click the blue 'Directions' arrow in the search box).
Need some more help?
Read our Reservations & Travel Planning Tips guide.