
Cherney Maribel Caves County Park
Explore fascinating caves, intriguing hotel ruins, and scenic trails in this Wisconsin natural gem.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Guided cave tours available

Cherney Maribel Caves County Park
Best Time
Guided cave tours available

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore fascinating caves, intriguing hotel ruins, and scenic trails in this Wisconsin natural gem.
"A great little adventure with hidden treasures everywhere you look and turn."

🔦 Bring a Flashlight
Essential for exploring the caves, especially the self-guided sections. Don't forget it!
🦿 Knee Pads Recommended
You'll need them for crawling into the deeper parts of the caves. Makes it much more comfortable.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Maribel Caves
Various locations within the park
Explore open cave entrances, crawl into deeper sections, and discover hidden natural wonders.

Maribel Caves Hotel Ruins
Near the park entrance
Intriguing crumbling ruins of a historic hotel, offering a glimpse into the past.

Scenic Trails
Throughout the park
Enjoy well-maintained gravel paths and marked trails with beautiful old trees and riverbanks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Crawl into Adventure
Trail Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Also saw the ruins of the Maribel Caves Hotel at Cherney Maribel Caves Park today. I thought these were so cool to see.
🔦 Bring a Flashlight
Essential for exploring the caves, especially the self-guided sections. Don't forget it!
🦿 Knee Pads Recommended
You'll need them for crawling into the deeper parts of the caves. Makes it much more comfortable.
The ruins of the Maribel Caves Hotel
Maribel Caves Hotel "Hotel Hell" 5.7 miles away from Avery Salvage yard
🕷️ Cave Spider Awareness
Spiders are common on ceilings. Stay low to avoid disturbing them, especially during nesting season.
🗺️ Trail Map Check
Some loops can be confusing. Always check the trailhead map to stay on course.
Any tips or tricks for learning how to bh on a 29er?
Tips
from all over the internet
🔦 Bring a Flashlight
Essential for exploring the caves, especially the self-guided sections. Don't forget it!
🦿 Knee Pads Recommended
You'll need them for crawling into the deeper parts of the caves. Makes it much more comfortable.
🕷️ Cave Spider Awareness
Spiders are common on ceilings. Stay low to avoid disturbing them, especially during nesting season.
🗺️ Trail Map Check
Some loops can be confusing. Always check the trailhead map to stay on course.
👟 Comfortable Hiking Shoes
Gravel paths and uneven cave floors require sturdy footwear for a pleasant experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Cherney Maribel Caves County Park for its unique cave exploration, intriguing hotel ruins, and well-maintained trails. Many find it a worthwhile destination for a natural adventure, though access to deeper caves requires crawling and a flashlight. The limited guided tour schedule is a point of note for those seeking a more structured experience.
"Fun to visit even if you don't get there on guided tour day. Make sure to bring a flashlight. You can crawl really far into the caves that are open, but you do need to crawl. Knee pads are definitely helpful. There are a lot of spiders in the self guided caves, but they hang out on the ceiling and don't bother you if you stay low enough. I liked it more in the spring, when I wasn't afraid the spiders might be protecting their nests!"
Stephanie G
"Our first time hiking here. The trails are in good shape. Looking at the trail head map, we ended up on a strange Loop Trail that circled back to the parking lot. Otherwise the remaining trails have well marked signage. Due to impending weather and the wasted time on the Loop, we didn't have time to explore beyond the cave trail. Would definitely like to return. Our 2 hr drive to get there is worth it."
Pete Zielinski
"Beautiful, great little adventure out here in the world. Plenty of trails and beautiful caves and little watter falls. Hidden treasures every where you look and turn. The crumbling ruins are beautiful and intriguing of the old hotel. Flower, butterflies and dragon flies every where. Beautiful old trees and a little peace and quiet tucked away along a river bank. Beautiful ❤️"
Courtney Bookman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is accessible by car. It's located in Maribel, Wisconsin. Many visitors mention it's worth the drive, even if it's a couple of hours away. Check your GPS for the most direct route.
Yes, there is parking available at the park. It's generally sufficient for visitors, though it might be busier on guided tour days.
Public transportation options are very limited in this rural area. Driving is the most practical way to access Cherney Maribel Caves County Park.
The main trails are described as wide, gravel paths, which may be suitable for some strollers. However, cave exploration requires crawling and is not accessible.
Refer to the trailhead map for guidance. While most trails are well-marked, some loops can be confusing, so it's wise to orient yourself before setting off.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the park and its trails is generally free. However, guided cave tours have specific dates and times.
Guided cave tours are typically held on the 3rd Sunday of the month, from May through October.
Yes, some cave entrances are open for self-guided exploration. Be prepared to crawl and bring your own flashlight.
The park is generally open during daylight hours for visitors to explore the trails and open cave entrances. Guided tours have specific schedules.
There is no stated entrance fee for Cherney Maribel Caves County Park itself. Access to trails and open caves is free.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can hike on well-maintained trails, explore open cave entrances (some require crawling), see the ruins of the Maribel Caves Hotel, and enjoy the natural scenery with waterfalls and a riverbank.
Yes, guided tours are available on the 3rd Sunday of each month from May to October. These tours allow access to areas not open for self-exploration.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes and consider bringing knee pads for crawling. A flashlight is essential for navigating the darker cave sections.
Information on restroom availability is not consistently provided, but it's advisable to check with local park services or be prepared for limited facilities.
Visitors have noted seeing spiders in the caves, as well as butterflies and dragonflies on the trails. The park also features beautiful old trees and a river.
📸 📸 Photography
The crumbling ruins of the Maribel Caves Hotel offer a unique photographic subject. The cave entrances themselves, the scenic trails, and the natural waterfalls also make for great shots.
When exploring open cave entrances, be cautious of your footing and surroundings. Ensure you have adequate lighting with your flashlight for clear photos.
Mornings can offer softer light for landscapes and trails. The ruins might be interesting to photograph at various times, depending on the desired mood.
Drone usage policies can vary by county park. It's best to check with the park administration or local regulations before flying a drone.
A camera with good low-light performance and a wide-angle lens would be beneficial for cave interiors. For trails and ruins, a versatile zoom lens is useful.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers and History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Caves: A Thrill-Seeker's Guide
For those seeking a more in-depth experience, the guided tours offer a chance to see parts of the caves not accessible otherwise. These tours are a fantastic way to learn about the geology and history of the caves from knowledgeable guides. However, if you're visiting on a non-tour day, the open entrances still provide a sense of adventure and discovery. Remember to tread carefully, respect the natural environment, and enjoy the subterranean wonders.
The Enigmatic Maribel Caves Hotel Ruins
Photographers and history enthusiasts will find the ruins particularly captivating. The juxtaposition of man-made structures succumbing to nature creates a visually compelling scene. It's a great spot for contemplative walks and imagining the hotel in its heyday. While not as prominent as the caves themselves, the hotel ruins are a significant and intriguing feature of Cherney Maribel Caves County Park, adding depth to the visitor experience.
Navigating the Trails and Natural Beauty
Beyond the caves and ruins, the park's natural beauty is a major draw. The presence of flowers, butterflies, and dragonflies adds to the serene atmosphere, especially during warmer months. Whether you're looking for a short stroll or a more extended hike, the trails at Cherney Maribel Caves County Park provide a peaceful escape into nature. The park's relatively remote location contributes to its charm, offering a quiet retreat for those who visit.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit