Extended weekends don’t always turn out as planned. For us, a long-anticipated lake trip to Bear Lake turned into a rain-soaked adventure. Thank goodness I had the foresight to leave Luke (our pup) at his favorite doggy daycare because the weather was far from dog-friendly.

Instead of boating in the sun, we found ourselves gathered around a smoky campfire under dripping skies, playing card games, laughing, and waiting out the storm.

Bear Lake is infamous for quick weather changes, and boating simply isn’t safe when storms roll across the water. So, we did what seasoned travelers do best, we pivoted. A quick look at the map (and a few phone calls later), we discovered an adventure waiting just across the Utah–Idaho border, Minnetonka Cave.

The drive up the canyon was breathtaking, with mist clinging to the evergreens and the scent of fresh rain seeping through the forest. By the time we reached the end of the narrow canyon road, we were greeted by a crowded parking lot with little room to maneuver. Pro tip: don’t bring your trailer or boat up here, you’ll regret it.

Minnetonka Cave has a history as fascinating as the formations inside. Accidentally discovered by a grouse hunter in 1906, the cave wasn’t developed until 1938, when the Works Progress Administration (WPA) built the original stairs and pathways by lantern light, no less.

Today, visitors descend 888 steps into a half-mile underground world filled with towering stalactites, rising stalagmites, banded travertine (that really does look like bacon), and glittering popcorn formations. Each of the nine chambers reveals something new, and despite the workout, it’s worth every step.

The cave is also home to five bat species, including the Townsend's Big-Eared Bat, a Forest Service Sensitive Species. Our guide taught us about White Nose Syndrome, a devastating disease threatening bat populations across North America, and reminded us how important it is to protect these creatures by being mindful of what we wear or bring into caves.

At a constant 40°F, Minnetonka Cave is brisk even in midsummer. Jackets were non-negotiable, and by the time we climbed out into the light again, our legs had burned, but our spirits soared. The rain had cleared, and the sun poured over the forest floor—proof that sometimes, the best memories come when plans change.

Travel Tips for Visiting Minnetonka Cave

• Book ahead: Tours are first-come, first-served and wait times can stretch over an hour.

• Dress warm: The cave is always 40°F bring a jacket, even in July.

• Leave the trailer behind: Parking is limited and the road ends in a tight turnaround.

• Pack water and snacks: You’ll want it after 888 steps, but note, you can’t bring food or drinks inside; however, if you have someone in your group who is a diabetic you will want an emergency snack with you despite the rules.

• Respect the wildlife: Minnetonka Cave is home to sensitive bat species. Follow guidelines to prevent the spread of White Nose Syndrome.

• Go with the flow: If Bear Lake weather changes on you, this is a perfect rainy-day adventure.

Travel is rarely perfect, but it’s always memorable. Minnetonka Cave reminded me that detours often lead to the best stories.