Mercer Caverns, Murphys

About Mercer Caverns

Mercer Caverns in Murphys features a network of underground passages with mineral formations visible along a guided tour route. Visitors descend through the cave to explore the Gothic Hall, the largest room in the caverns, where parallel rows of draperies line the walls. Other named formations include the Giant Column, the Old Fashioned Market, the Cave Twins, and the Organ Loft. The Cave Twins formation is the only feature guests are permitted to touch; its once-white surface has been discolored by hand contact over more than 125 years. The caverns also contain a gem mining activity. Guided tours follow a designated trail that allows visitors to view the interior passages. Historical exploration of the site, beginning in 1885, uncovered skeletal remains of Mi-Wuk tribe members from 1500 to 2000 years ago and remains of an extinct Sierra Ground Sloth. The attraction is located in Murphys, California.