Theres no shortage of pristine areas in Colorado. Our mountain ranges, rivers and canyons rank high among the very best of wilderness destinations. Perhaps the most spectacular, untouched, mind-bending wilderness of all, however, lies under our very feet. It is an unspoiled wilderness saturated in lore, secret passwords and gate-keepers. Welcome to the underground world, literally and figuratively, of Colorado caves.

Pete Tschannen, keeper of privileged information, leads the way
to a locked entrance gate. Cave pearls growing in a small pool. These aragonite crystals have formed into a prismatic 7-foot
tall bush. Pete Tschannen, of Durango, illuminates a beautiful
formation. Aragonite, left, and gypsum, right, are some of the more common
minerals found in caves. Mariah Eldrid, of Durango, sneaks past an ancient pillar. Caves are in a perpetual state of growth. The room seen here is
literally alive with marmalade flowstone and stalactites.

 

In this week's issue...

September 11, 2025
Back on top

After harrowing flying accident, local highliner steps back out with renewed mission
 

September 11, 2025
New order

Rule change for Land and Water Conservation Fund raises alarms

September 4, 2025
Armed with knowledge

Local community organizers work to ensure immigrant neighbors know their rights