Caves
GermanyRhineland-PalatinatePalatinateKuselRathsweilerCave of Death (Mercury Tunnel)
Caves
GermanyRhineland-PalatinatePalatinateKuselRathsweilerCave of Death (Mercury Tunnel)
Highlight • Cave
Cave of Death (Mercury Tunnel)
Recommended for
Hiking
by 27 explorers out of 31
Add komoot as a preferred source in your Google results
Add now
Location: Rathsweiler, Kusel, Palatinate, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany
Tips
September 30, 2019
Hiking
•July 13, 2025
Hiking
Tucked away in the hillside is this former tunnel, once used to extract mercury, now known as the "Cave of Death." Poisonous gas (including mercury vapor) constantly escapes from within, making the cave extremely dangerous. A fascinating, yet threatening, site of geological and historical significance.
Tip: Never enter! Even a few breaths in the tunnel can be life-threatening. Observe only from a safe distance and treat the area with respect.
•In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Routes here
Best Hikes to Cave of Death (Mercury Tunnel)
5.0
(8)
31
hikers
16.4km
04:52
470m
470m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(5)
17
hikers
15.5km
04:46
480m
480m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.7
(7)
17
hikers
9.83km
02:56
270m
270m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 360 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Friday 23 January
4°C
-4°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Add komoot as a preferred source in your Google results
Add now
Location: Rathsweiler, Kusel, Palatinate, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany