ROADTRIP: Explore 2 Epic South Idaho Lava Caves Just 20 Mi Apart

Southern Idaho has no shortage of ancient lava tubes and ice caves that make for a unique subterranean adventure. The weather will be getting colder soon and exploring these types of landmarks will get much more dangerous in the coming weeks, and there are two caves within just minutes of one another that you just can't miss out on.

There was a point in history when southern Idaho was one massive lava field. That lava cooled over centuries and formed some amazing underground caves. Some are run by the state and offer guides, and others are enter at your own risk type of deals. Safety is the most important thing to remember when navigating these lava tubes and caves, so it's never recommended people explore alone.

Pack a lunch and your flashlights and enjoy these historic sites before the snow starts to fall. It's possible to find ancient artifacts as well due to the fact that people lived in and stored tools and food in these caves centuries ago.

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Two such caves exist in southeastern Idaho near the community of Grace. Grace is located 170 miles east of Twin Falls and is within 20 minutes of both Formation Springs and Niter Ice Cave. Both caves formed over 400,000 years ago. Nitter Ice Cave is made up of primarily basalt, and Formation Springs features a series of flowing mineral pools.

September is a great month to wander both locations; again, going with a group is safer. Pack a lunch and your flashlights and enjoy these historic sites before the snow starts to fall. It's possible to find ancient artifacts as well due to the fact that people lived in and stored tools and food in these caves centuries ago.