The Atlas Obscura Podcast
The Cave Below Minneapolis
Apr 1, 2025
A daring urban explorer ventures deep into the hidden Schieks Cave beneath Minneapolis, uncovering its rich history and secrets. The podcast reveals fascinating mysteries of the city’s underground, including an unusual find of warm groundwater which has implications for geothermal energy. Listeners discover the challenges of urban exploration in this intricate cave system and hear from advocates urging recognition of its historical and scientific significance, contrasting the bustling city above with the wonders lurking below.
12:42
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Quick takeaways
- Greg Brick's exploration of Sheik's Cave revealed not only its hidden geological features but also significant public health risks from urban infrastructure contamination.
- The warm groundwater phenomenon in Sheik's Cave highlights potential renewable energy opportunities while underscoring a broader issue faced by urban environments.
Deep dives
The Discovery of Sheik's Cave
Sheik's Cave, a hidden geologic anomaly beneath Minneapolis, was originally discovered by a sewer engineer in 1904. The city decided to keep its existence a secret to avoid concerns about unstable ground. Urban explorer Greg Brick, fascinated by the cave's history, dedicated years to researching old newspaper articles and guidebooks to learn more. Despite multiple failed attempts, he finally gained access to the cave in 2000 through an opening in the storm drains, unveiling a unique underground world rich in history and hidden wonders.
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