A Day at the Polar Caves
Explore Nature’s Underground Playground at Polar Caves Park in Plymouth, NH
Tucked into the quiet woodlands just outside Plymouth, New Hampshire, Polar Caves Park is a family-friendly attraction that blends natural history, hands-on adventure, and scenic beauty all in one spot. Glacial movement during the last Ice Age cracked and shifted massive boulders into narrow passageways and caverns, forming the park’s nine granite caves over 20,000 years ago. Today, visitors can walk through these ancient formations via a thoughtfully constructed network of boardwalks and stairs, offering safe passage into some of nature’s most fascinating spaces.
Polar Caves is more than just a walk through rocks—each cave has its own character, from the tight squeeze of the “Lemon Squeeze” to the cool, dark stillness of “Fat Man’s Misery.” Despite summer temperatures outside, the caves remain surprisingly chilly year-round, sometimes even holding onto snow late into the season. It’s a refreshing break from the heat and an unforgettable experience for families, school groups, or anyone looking for something different in the White Mountains.
Admission & Pricing
Polar Caves Park offers reasonably priced admission for a day full of unique exploration. When booking online, prices are:
– $27.50 for adults (16-64)
– $20.50 for youths (4-15)
– $23.50 for seniors (65+)
– $25.50 for military/ first responders (please bring ID proof)
– Free for Cub Pass (3 and below)
Booking ahead online is strongly recommended—prices are lower than walk-up tickets, and you’ll guarantee your spot on busy summer days when availability can be limited. Plan a group outing like a school field trip or summer camp visit to take advantage of discounted rates for youth groups of 20 or more on non-holiday weekdays. These must be booked and paid for at least a week in advance.
Activities in the Park
The caves are just the beginning. The park also features an outdoor animal enclosure where kids can get up close with gentle European fallow deer and ducks. You can purchase a bag of feed for a few dollars and enjoy some peaceful, screen-free time watching your little ones interact with the animals. There’s also a giant boulder maze to navigate, nature trails to wander, and a gem mining area where young explorers can pan for treasures just like old-time prospectors.
When it’s time for a break, you’ll find a spacious picnic area with tables and grassy spots perfect for spreading out a lunch from home. The main lodge includes a gift shop stocked with snacks, souvenirs, and a few essentials in case you forget anything. While Polar Caves doesn’t serve full meals, it’s easy to plan ahead and bring your own lunch for a relaxed, scenic picnic on the grounds.
Most guests spend about two hours at the park—one hour exploring the caves and another enjoying the surrounding activities.
Park Hours & Location
The park is open seasonally from mid-May through mid-October. During the summer months, it operates daily from 9 AM to 3 PM, with spring and fall hours limited to weekends. Keep in mind that while the trails and caves are safe and family-friendly, they do involve stairs, gravel paths, and a few tight spaces. Closed-toe shoes are a must, and strollers or wheelchairs aren’t recommended. Infants should be carried in front-facing carriers, as backpacks are not allowed inside the caves.
Located just five miles west of I-93, Polar Caves is easy to access and makes for a great half-day outing whether you’re staying in Plymouth, Lincoln, or elsewhere in the White Mountains region. With its combination of outdoor fun, educational features, and natural beauty, it’s a perfect stop for families, road-trippers, and anyone looking to add a little adventure to their summer plans.
So if you’re seeking a one-of-a-kind experience this season, pack a lunch, book your tickets online, and step into the cool, mysterious world beneath the forest floor. Polar Caves Park isn’t just a walk through the caves—it’s a walk through time.
