This Secret Cave River In Kentucky Is A Must Visit
By Jenn Shockley|Published August 12, 2016
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Jenn Shockley
Author
I am somewhat a cliche'. I grew up running around barefoot on a farm in Kentucky.
I love writing, art, sunshine, all animals and my incredibly patient husband, who tolerates my "crazy animal lady" side.
Finding a secret cave is always cool, but what about finding a cave river in Kentucky? Compared to Mammoth Cave, there is a little-known cave system that has some very cool scenery and a one of a kind tour. It is only 7 miles, which isn’t that far, but what you see is some unusual scenic cave beauty you won’t soon forget. The biggest bonus is the cave river, with its crystal clear and blue hued waters.
7. This cave river makes its home in Bowling Green.
The Lost River Cave is located on 2818 Nashville Road. The river itself originates outside the cave and flows through it. Both Western Kentucky University and Friends of Lost River Cave. jointly own the 68 acres of land the river and cave system occupy.
6. The river has been recognized by Ripley’s Believe it or Not.
It is the shortest, but deepest river in the world. It gained this recognition because the beautiful blue hole is over 427 feet deep. The river is only 350 feet long. The actual hole is 10 feet deep but links to another underground river. The extent of the length and depth of the other river is unknown.
Studies show the Paleo Indians utilized these caves for water and shelter at the end of the ice age. Clovis spear points, common in the Paleo Indian culture have been discovered in the area. Other spear points have been found dating back around 8,000 years ago, from the Archaic period.
During the Civil War, Union soldiers stayed in the caves. Some of them smoked and wrote their names within the cave chambers. Union bullets have also been found within the walls of this unique cave. It was a perfect spot to hide out and have fresh water and shelter.
A local business man opened a night club in the cavern. It was deemed the Cavern Night Club and quickly gained popularity due to the cool atmosphere and temperatures. The NBC Orchestra, Dinah Shore and Francis Craig are among those who performed in this nightclub. Remnants of this renowned time in this caves history are still visible.
There is a two part tour consisting of 45 minutes per tour. Initially patrons can walk along the beautiful Blue Hole, the river and finally the cave entrance. The second part of the tour takes cave enthusiasts on an underground adventure via boat. You get to float along the gorgeous underground river and see unique life forms and incredible formations. The water is crystal clear in sections, primarily due to the limestone.
1. Venues available
The Lost River Cave offers two different event venues for rent. The first is the incredible and historic Lost River Cave Ballroom, at the Cavern Night Club. The second is the River Birch Meeting Room, located adjacent to the visitor’s center. It comes with modern conveniences such as restrooms, kitchen, and a big screen television.
This cave river in Kentucky is a unique way to experience a cave. It is the only tour of its kind in the state, and the scenic beauty and life within the darkness is mesmerizing. The Lost River Cave is truly a phenomenal experience to take alone or with family and friends. You can check out other unique places to visit in Nature here.
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