Jemez Cave (a.k.a. Crystal Cave) - CLOSED

DO NOT CLIMB HERE. The Jemez Cave is closed to all public access. The Santa Fe National Forest issued a closure order for Jemez (aka Crystal) Cave on August 21st, 2012. The closure order continues to be renewed after each expiration. The most recent renewal was May 1, 2019 and has been extended until April 30, 2023. The closure applies to all users and is in effect until rescinded or for one year and includes the cave and surrounding area within 50 feet as well as the access trails.  Violations are punishable by fines of up to $5000 and/or imprisonment of up to 6 months.*******************************************************************This information appears here for historical reference only. Climbing, or any other type of access to the cave, is prohibited. This crazy place is made up of a mineral called travertine, a mineral deposit from hot springs. It has a feel of limestone with multiple pockets.The routes here are difficult, all overhanging as they travel through the cave. Not only are they difficult to climb, we found them quite difficult to find! Typically you are lowered off single chains from the roof of the cave, and left wondering what route you did! There were many that were described in the guidebook "Jemez Rock", and we could not even figure out which was which. So, be warned, fun and difficult climbing with confusing route finding!