As above-ground caves go, Rio Frio is on the small side: from inside, you can see both entrance and exit; however, its large opening is inviting (no claustrophobic tight, winding warrens to get lost in here), and with a small stream running through it, it retains its own beauty worth taking the time to visit if you’re in the area.
At the time of this writing, Google Maps still hasn’t fixed its directions to the cave, so don’t use it! If you do, you’ll end up driving down an overgrown, rutted trail that just peters out into razor sharp grass (like we did).
You’ll know you’ve reached the right place as there will be a sign welcoming you to the cave as well as maps to show the general area and a walking trail. The hike to the cave is a short, easy, and peaceful walk in the woods.
The entrance is easy to access. The cave is small enough that you can walk to the other end with just a phone light if you wish. I didn’t notice any bats flying around, but for all I know, they could have been secretly watching and snickering at the dumb tourist stumbling around in the half darkness.
Walking around in the cave is not as treacherous or slippery as some others I’ve visited, and if I remember correctly, it was pretty dry. Through the miracle of Lightroom, I’ve lightened the photo of the inside of the cave so you can get a general idea. Of course, in real life, it’ll look a lot darker.
Although small, it’s a nice stopping point if you’re already in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve area visiting places like Rio-On Pools or Big Rock Falls. If you have time to explore, there is also a nature path through the forest that should be a nice stroll or hike. We didn’t get a chance to wander around much, so let us know what it’s like if you do.
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