Candlelight Cave Tours Continue at Lewis and Clark Caverns
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is offering guided candlelight tours of the developed cave route today at Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park, part of a series running December 20 to 22 and December 27 to 29. The seasonal tours require advance tickets, carry additional park fees for nonresidents, and include safety and wildlife protections that are important for local visitors to know.
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks opened limited candlelight tours at Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park that run through December 29, with tours taking place today December 28, 2025. The guided excursions follow the developed cave route and require advance tickets that must be purchased online or by phone, as no tickets are sold at the visitor center. Starting times vary with staffing, and tours are restricted to visitors age five and older.
The cave route includes a three quarters of a mile uphill approach to the cave entrance and about two miles of walking through subterranean chambers such as the Cathedral Room and the Garden of the Gods. Ticket prices are set at $25 for visitors ages 15 and older, and $15 for children ages five to 14. Nonresident drivers should expect an additional park entrance fee of eight dollars per vehicle.
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks cautioned that winter trail conditions and icy walkways can affect the approach to the cave and the facilities on site. The agency also highlighted protections for hibernating bats and asked visitors to observe white nose syndrome precautions while inside the caverns. Those restrictions reflect a continuing effort to balance public access with conservation of vulnerable wildlife and cave features.
For Lewis and Clark County residents the tours represent a seasonal opportunity to access a state landmark in winter and to support local recreation related businesses that serve visitors during the holidays. The requirement for advance tickets and staffing dependent start times mean capacity will be limited, which reduces congestion but also requires planning for those hoping to attend.
The offering underscores the role of state park operations in managing visitor safety, natural resource protection, and local tourism revenue during peak holiday periods. Residents planning to attend should confirm ticket availability and current trail conditions with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks before traveling.
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