Mammoth Cave, Kentucky: Journey Deep Into The Heart Of The World’s Longest Cave System
Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky is the longest and most biologically diverse cave system in the world, offering a range of tours and outdoor activities.
Squirreled away in the American South within a two-hour radius of famous cities like Louisville, Lexington, and Nashville lies a vast network of tunnels and passageways that together form the longest cave system in the entire world. Home to over 130 species of wildlife and almost every type of cave formation, it's also the world's most diverse series of caverns. You may have heard of it: Kentucky's aptly-named Mammoth Cave National Park. Let's take a journey inside this stunning natural wonder.
Welcome to the rolling hills of west-central Kentucky, nestled on the edge of America's Southern Appalachian Region.
By far the longest cave system in the world, this sandstone labyrinth encompasses more than 400 miles of known passageways, with more being discovered each year.
Not only is Mammoth Cave a national treasure, acknowledged by its designation as a National Park, but it's also been recognized internationally as the longest, most biologically diverse cave system in the world. As such, Mammoth Cave has been named a United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve.
These designations help protect and preserve the rich geologic and biologic diversity housed within Mammoth Cave for generations to come.
A trip to this one-of-a-kind natural wonder should begin here, at the most famous entrance to Mammoth Cave - the iconic arched entry hidden behind a thin, shimmering waterfall veil.
Tours led by rangers at Mammoth Cave National Park range from short, well-marked routes to extensive off-trail forays into the wild bowels of this vast network of passages.
Three millennia ago, the cave was used by prehistoric people as a mineral mine. Evidence of this ancient activity can be found in the form of thousands of perfectly-preserved artifacts still littering the cave's passageways. Mammoth Cave also seems to have been used as an ancient burial site, as the relatively recent discovery of carefully buried, naturally mummified human remains suggests.
Ever since, for good or for ill, the cave has continued to provide shelter, materials, jobs, and recreational opportunities for a variety of groups in a wide range of historical time periods, including our own.
There's plenty to do above ground at Mammoth Cave National Park as well.
Hiking trails wind through fairytale forests and past abandoned cemeteries, historic buildings, and panoramic overlooks. Campsites perch on the banks of the Green River, allowing the peaceful sound of the rushing water to lull you to sleep after a full day of adventuring. Spacious, accessible visitor centers provide a wealth of information and a range of ways to experience the history and beauty of this unique area.
There's no doubt about it, this remarkable cave, the only of its kind the world over, definitely merits a spot on your travel bucket list.
To learn more about Mammoth Cave National Park and plan your visit, see the park's website here.
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General Information:
Accessibility: Mammoth Cave National Park offers fully accessible trails, visitor centers, campgrounds, shops, and lodging, though certain deep-cave tours are not suitable for those with limited mobility. The Accessibility Tour is the best choice for visitors with mobility devices, motorized wheelchairs, and walkers. Audio and visual aids are available for all levels of low vision and hearing loss needs. For more information about park accessibility, click here.
Pet Friendly: Pets are permitted on the trails of Mammoth Cave National Park on leashes of a maximum of six feet length, but they are prohibited in the park buildings and in Mammoth Cave itself. Pets may be boarded on-site at Mammoth Cave Kennels.
Parking: Parking is free, plentiful, and well-marked throughout the park.
Seasonal Access: The park is open year-round, with the exception of certain government holidays.
Cost: Entry into Mammoth Cave National Park is free. Cave tour prices range from $4 per person (Discovery Tour, Senior, or Access Pass holder) to $66 per person (Adult Wild Cave Tour). Campground and picnic shelter reservation charges also apply.
Other: Cave temperature can vary widely, especially near the entrances and during the winter, but deeper portions of the cave remain at a constant 54 degrees, even during the hottest months of summer. A light jacket is recommended, no matter when you visit.
There's nothing quite like standing at the precipice of a canyon, gazing out at the immense expanse stretching endlessly into the horizon. It's a momentous moment that anchors you in the here and now, and something you really must experience in person. While there is one grand canyon that needs to introduction, there are extraordinary canyons all across the country that are equally brilliant and breathtaking. So let the following photographs and words be your inspiration, guiding your future travels and bucket-list escapades to our country's most captivating and commanding canyons.
Yellowstone National Park is one of the most remarkable places on the planet, full of immense beauty and wonder. It has its very own Grand Canyon, too, and it's a place that's every bit as extraordinary as the park itself. The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is easily the most majestic sight in the park: it's 20 miles long, 4,000 feet wide, and 1,200 feet deep. Its mineral-marked walls speak to the great history of this wondrous place, and Yellowstone's Upper and Lower Falls crash through the canyon in an incredible display of power. There's nowhere in the world like the Yellowstone Grand Canyon, and it's truly a place that both inspires and satisfies wanderlust.
2. Death Valley National Park - California and Nevada
One of the most sublime and intriguing places in the country, Death Valley National Park is an otherworldly wonder. Situated on the border of California and Nevada, Death Valley is a land of extremes: it's the hottest, driest, and lowest-elevation national park in the country. Unique geographical features such as the salt flats, which stretch for 200 square miles, seemingly endless sand dunes, and sedimentary badlands form the landscape of Death Valley, creating a landscape that's wholly unique and uncanny. If you're going to visit, do so during the winter months; in the summer, temperatures in Death Valley can climb up to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, living up to the warning inherent in this national park's name.
There are some places in the world that will leave an imprint on your soul. Zion National Park in Utah is one of those unforgettable places. Located in southern Utah, Zion National Park was established in 1919, making it the state's very first national park. But it's not simply Utah's original state park; it's Utah's most spectacular state park. The park’s most distinguishing feature is the steep red cliffs of the eponymous Zion Canyon. In fact, the park is often referred to as a "vertical park" because of its sharp, scarped sides. In addition to this epic, expansive canyon, Zion is also home to more than 90 miles of hiking and backpacking trails, making it an amazing place for near-endless exploration and adventure.
While everything is certainly bigger in Texas, Santa Elena Canyon is a place of intricate and quiet beauty that's positively sublime. Santa Elena Canyon, a majestic limestone grotto nestled deep within the Texas mountains, is the prettiest and most popular feature of Big Bend National Park. While there are many ways to explore this commanding canyon, kayaking will give you the most immersive experience. The Rio Grande meanders right through the canyon for 13 miles, making it an ideal -- and idyllic -- kayaking spot. Several outfitters offer trips that range in length from one to three days, appealing to a variety of skill levels. Along the way, you'll pass rare wildlife and even get the opportunity to camp on spacious sandbars, all while reveling in the resplendence of this incredible Texas canyon.
5. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area - Arizona and Utah
The Grand Canyon might be the most well-known canyon in Arizona (and the world), but it's not the only incredible canyon in the state. For proof of this, look no further than Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, a 1.2-million-acre national park that's home to the eponymous Glen Canyon. The most distinct feature of Glen Canyon is its natural bridges; in fact, this national park is home to one of the world's largest-known natural bridges, and the single largest in the country. Spanning 234 feet, Rainbow Bridge is considered sacred to a number of local Native American tribes, and it attracts nearly 85,000 visitors from all over the globe each year. Comprised of sandstone deposited by wind as dunes, the bridge began forming about 200 million years ago, and it's so massive, it's visible from outer space!
When a place is as ingrained in our national consciousness as the Grand Canyon, it's easy to lose sight of just how extraordinary a place Arizona's Grand Canyon is. So allow us to reacquaint you with this national natural wonder. The Grand Canyon is one of the largest and longest canyons on Earth and one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World. A playground for outdoor enthusiasts, the Grand Canyon is also a beloved destination for waterfall chasers, as it's home to some of the country's finest falls. The Grand Canyon can be explored in myriad ways: you can drive up to scenic viewpoints, explore on a helicopter tour, whitewater raft down the Colorado River, or even walk out onto a glass bridge. But however you chose to experience *the* Grand Canyon, know it will be a bucket-list-worthy adventure you'll never forget.
Canyon Stats: As the second-largest canyon in the United States, it is roughly 120 miles long and has an average width of six miles, but reaches a width of 20 miles at places.
Called the Grand Canyon of Texas, Palo Duro Canyon is the second largest canyon in the country. Within the eponymous state park, there are numerous ways to explore the canyon, starting with its 30 miles of trails. This canyon is 120 miles long and 20 miles wide and is up to 800 feet deep in some areas. A place of immense history, you can see the beautiful colors of four geologic layers painted on the colossal canyon walls. The canyon began forming a million years ago -- but the walls of the canyon tell a much older geologic story, one that began 250 million years ago! Prepare to experience total awe and wonder at Palo Duro Canyon.
Address: 1 Letchworth State Park, Castile, NY 14427
Canyon Stats: The park is roughly 17 miles long, following the course of the Genesee River as it flows north through a deep gorge and over several large waterfalls.
In Upstate New York, there’s a particularly epic, 176-foot waterfall that attracts upwards of 8 million visitors each year and definitely demands the spotlight. Of course, we’re talking about Niagara Falls, which truly is one of the world’s most splendid natural wonders. However, there’s another destination that’s less than two hours from the world-famous falls that’s equally wondrous and meritorious in its own right: Letchworth State Park. This New York State Park has some of the most sublime scenery in the country. Here, the Genesee River roars through the majestic gorge, over picture-perfect tiered waterfalls, between stately cliffs, and along the lush Upstate wilderness. Lauded as the Grand Canyon of the East, Letchworth State Park is magnificent, and truly one of our country's most beguiling and beautiful places.
Hawaii is a bucket-list destination in its own right, so a place like Waimea Canyon truly is the icing on the cake. Called The Grand Canyon of the Pacific, Waimea Canyon is an immensely majestic place that's a true national treasure. With brilliant shades of red, brown, green, blue, gray, and even purple, Waimea Canyon State Park is a colorful wonderland that encompasses approximately 1,866 acres and is one of the island’s most popular destinations. At nearly 14 miles long, one mile wide, and more than 3,600 feet deep, the stunning Waimea Canyon isn't simply flush with commanding cliffs, vibrant colors, and cascading waterfalls; it's Hawaii’s most unspoiled and unrivaled natural beauty.
Hailed as The Crown Jewel of the Pacific Northwest, the Columbia River Gorge is the largest natural scenic area in the United States. The mighty Columbia River serves as the border between Oregon and Washington, and there are all sorts of treasures awaiting you on both states’ sides. Known for its abundance of waterfalls (there are over 90 on the Oregon side alone), the Columbia River Gorge is immensely scenic and beautiful. One of the best ways to see the highlights of this natural wonder is by driving the Historic Columbia River Scenic Byway. This 75-mile scenic highway winds past dozens of amazing waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, charming small towns, and hiking areas. Lewis and Clark first happened upon the Columbia River Gorge during their expeditions in 1806, and we can only imagine how awestruck they were at discovering this pristine PNW paradise. Go discover it for yourself, and experience total awe and wonder.
At the eastern edge of the United States, you'll discover one of the most eye-catching canyons in the country. Gulf Hagas is a roughly three-mile-long stretch of rock walls that tower over the river rushing nearly 500 feet below. Nicknamed "the Grand Canyon of Maine" — and even "the Grand Canyon of the East" — it’s found along the northern stretch of the Appalachian Trail and features a network of trails, incredible rock formations, and a series of beautiful waterfalls. If while hiking you begin to question why Gulf Hagas is considered the "Grand Canyon of Maine," keep hiking: you’re likely only moments away from stumbling upon a vista that's sure to render you speechless.
With its tan-streaked canyon walls, austere angles, and sharp crevices, Colorado's Black Canyon commands -- and demands -- attention. Located along the state's Western Slope, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison is a 48-mile-long gorge that encompasses the Gunnison River below and features dramatic walls and cliffs above, and it's been hailed as Colorado's superlative park. Featuring breathtaking vistas, unrivaled camping opportunities, and extraordinary natural features, there is plenty to love about the Black Canyon of the Gunnison, especially when explored on foot via one of the beautiful trails. Said to house some of the oldest rock, most precipitous cliffs, and craggiest spires in the country, the Black Canyon is also unique in that the Gunnison River drops an average of 34 feet per mile (versus the Grand Canyon's Colorado River, which lowers an average of 7.5 feet per mile). Add it all up, and you've got the makings of a truly remarkable place of immense grandeur that shouldn't be missed.
Kentucky might be best known as the home of the world's largest cavern system, but natural wonders abound aboveground, too. For proof of this, look no further than Red River Gorge. Dubbed The Grand Canyon of Kentucky, Red River Gorge is a canyon system along the Red River in the eastern part of the state. A magical place any time of the year, Red River Gorge offers some of the very best outdoor recreation in the country. While the hiking is unrivaled in this park (there are 60 miles of mapped hiking trails in various spots throughout the Gorge), those with limited mobility or who wish to explore the scenery in a more leisurely manner can take the Red River Gorge Scenic Byway, a 46-mile route with some of the most jaw-dropping scenery in the country.
Provocative and undulating, Antelope Canyon isn't so much a place as it is an experience. Located on land belonging to the LeChee Chapter of the Navajo Nation in northern Arizona, Antelope is a slot canyon with tall sandstone walls, captivating orange and red hues, and wholly unique natural designs. Created by the slow seeping of water into the natural cracks of sandstone; over the years, these small cracks turned into large, narrow gorges -- known as slot canyons -- that are dramatic and deep. One of the most famous slot canyons in the country, Antelope Canyon features two distinct areas to explore; Upper Antelope Canyon is unique, as the entrance into this canyon is at ground level. You do not have to climb or rappel to access this area of the canyon, making this an accessible place for anyone with an adventurous soul and spirit.
Another superlative showstopper in Utah, Nine Mile Canyon is a bit of a misnomer; this incredible canyon spans 46 magnificent miles and features art created more than a thousand years ago. Often called the world's largest art gallery, Nine Mile Canyon features tens of thousands of prehistoric petroglyphs and pictographs that adorn its rocky red walls. This winding and rocky canyon was home to Fremont and Ute people for thousands of years, and eventually became a route for European fur trappers, traders, and settlers. Today, the ancient artworks make this wholly unique canyon a top destination for history buffs, nature lovers, archaeologists, and explorers.
If you're interested in exploring the natural wonders of Idaho, the Box Canyon Springs Preserve, just west of Twin Falls, is a must. The preserve offers a breathtaking view of the 11th largest spring in the country, with its bright blue waters that are exceptionally stunning on a sunny day. Don't forget to read the informative signs throughout the area, which reveal fascinating details about the canyon, including how it's comparable to Mars! And be sure to follow the trail and hike down into the canyon to discover a stunning 20-foot waterfall that's a must-see.
17. Little River Canyon National Preserve - Alabama
Little River is truly a hidden gem in northeast Alabama; what makes it unique is that it flows most of its length atop Lookout Mountain, creating a picturesque landscape perfect for outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to hike through the forested uplands, explore the waterfalls, or enjoy the stunning views from the canyon rims and bluffs, there's something for everyone here. And with pools, boulders, and sandstone cliffs scattered throughout the preserve, there's no shortage of adventure. All in all, Little River is a truly unique and special place in the Southern Appalachians and one that's definitely worth a visit.
I recently visited the Indian Canyons in Palm Springs, and I must say, it was a one-of-a-kind experience. The crystal-clear streams, cascading waterfalls, and shady palm oases were unlike anything I had ever seen. What makes the Indian Canyons special is their rich history. As the ancestral home of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, this land holds a deep spiritual connection that can be felt by all who visit. It's a chance to step away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with something deeper. There are three canyons to explore - Andreas Canyon, Murray Canyon, and Palm Canyon - each offering a different adventure. The trails are easy to navigate and wind through the palms and rugged mountainsides. It truly is a unique and magical place.
The U.S. is home to some of the most beautiful places on Earth, and these canyons are some of our country's most transcendent treasures.
Have you taken a road trip to any of these beautiful canyons? We’d love to hear from you - let us know! Want to know the best hikes with the best overlooks? Check out the Canyon Rim Overlook Boardwalk in West Virginia, it will not disappoint.
When planning your next big adventure in America, the options are numerous: from frozen waterfalls and dreamy hot springs to manmade wonders and captivating castles, opportunities abound for epic exploration in the U.S. Some might say "the sky's the limit" – but any stargazer or mountain climber would disagree, as there truly is no limit on what we can explore here in the U.S. In fact, there are entire worlds beneath our feet; caverns and caves creating some of the most incredible underworlds known to mankind. This brings us to today's adventure: 19 caves in the U.S. that offer explorers a glimpse into truly wondrous worlds that seem too resplendent to be real – but luckily for us, they're all wholly, wonderfully real.
One of the most remarkable places in the country, Lava Beds National Monument will challenge your very definition of a "cave." This incredible natural landmark in California was formed by the movement of volcanic lava over the earth’s surface a half million years ago, resulting in a rugged landscape dotted with diverse volcanic features above ground, and more than 800 caves below ground. In addition, the park is geologically outstanding because of its great variety of "textbook" volcanic formations, including fumaroles, cinder cones, spatter cones, pit craters hornitos, maars, volcanic fields, and lava tube caves. There are 25 lava tubes at this national park, and they are open to adventurers for tours and exploration. Come and revel in this glorious underworld that's 500,000 years in the making.
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2. Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve - Oregon
Deep within Oregon’s mysterious Siskiyou Mountains are dark, twisting passageways just waiting to be explored. Oregon Caves National Monument is the culmination of eons of acidic water seeping into marble rock, which ultimately created one of the state’s grandest natural wonders. Known as the "Marble Halls of Oregon," the Oregon Caves are a stunning spectacle that absolutely belongs on your bucket list. Even better? You can take a tour and explore both the mountain and cavern — from the inside out!
Wind Cave is located in the eponymous national park, near the city of Hot Springs, South Dakota. Established in 1903 by President Theodore Roosevelt, Wind Cave National Park is one of the first national parks in the country and the first-ever to protect a cave system. Boasting 33,847 acres, Wind Cave National Park houses a complex cave system that dates back millions of years, as well as a rich Native American history and abundant wildlife. Billed as the sixth-longest cave in the world (at 140 miles), Wind Cave is also considered to be the densest and is also home to approximately 95% of the world's discovered boxwork formations. Superlatives aside, Wind Cave National Park is breathtakingly beautiful; it's truly a must-visit place for all adventure-seekers.
Proving that South Dakota is so much more than just its prestigious presidential monolith, Jewel Cave National Monument is, quite simply, sublime. As its name suggests, Jewel Cave is truly a wondrous hidden gem; it's billed as being the broadest and deepest cave in South Dakota, and, with 200+ miles of mapped passageways, it's considered to be the third-largest cave in the world. Offered daily, the Scenic Tour lasts 90 minutes and gives visitors the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the cave's calcite-adorned chambers up close.
Montana might be known as "Big Sky Country," but there's a massive underworld in the state that commands attention, too. The Lewis and Clark Caverns are of the largest limestone caves in the northwest United States, named as such because the famous Lewis and Clark expedition camped within sight of the caverns in 1805. The caves are known for their otherworldly limestone formations formed millions of years ago, with a dazzling array of stalactites, stalagmites, and columns protruding from the cavern walls and ceiling. The 3,000-acre park features not just cave tours, but also beautiful scenery and a campground, making this an amazing destination for your next bucket-list adventure.
Arizona's Antelope Canyon defies definition; this gorgeous canyon is unlike many others that dot our remarkable country, as it's a slot canyon with tall sandstone walls, unique natural designs, and a palette of warm, rich colors. Antelope Canyon is located on land belonging to the LeChee Chapter of the Navajo Nation in northern Arizona, and luckily for us, the Navajo Nation has been generous enough to open this sacred site to visitors who travel through with permitted guides. If you are looking for an adventure that makes you feel like you are in a different world, Antelope Canyon in Arizona deserves a top spot on your bucket list.
Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico might just be the most beautiful place in the entire country. Located 20 miles outside of the city of Carlsbad, this extraordinary natural wonder is a limestone cave that was once part of an underwater reef in an inland sea. Put in perspective, the body of water that formed the cavern was on the earth 250 to 280 million years ago. Today, visitors can explore this otherworldly expanse on two trails: The Big Room and Natural Entrance. We're partial to the former; it's the largest single cave chamber in the United States and features stunning formations such as the fabled Sword of Damocles.
There are some places that really take you by surprise, immersing you in an experience that you know you’ll remember for the rest of your life. You forget where you are and are just completely in the moment. Ruby Falls in Tennessee is one of those places. Ruby Falls isn’t as much an attraction, as it is an experience. Sure, Ruby Falls is the tallest and deepest underground waterfall open to the public in the United States. And the mountain overlook directly overhead allows for some of the most spectacular views of the Tennessee Valley, Cumberland Plateau, and Tennessee River – not to mention epic outdoor recreation. But Ruby Falls is so much more than numbers or bullet points. It’s one of the most magical places you’ll ever visit.
Natural Bridge Caverns certainly lives up to the "everything's bigger in Texas" mantra; this jaw-dropping, two-mile cavern is a wondrous world unto itself. Discovered in 1960 by an intrepid group of college students, Natural Bridge Caverns were opened to the public in 1964 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1971. This glistening limestone grotto looks like something from another world, offering a glimpse of what the Texas hill country landscape once looked like. Today, visitors can experience this underworld firsthand through one of the park's myriad guided tours. Curious explorers should check out the Hidden Passages Tour; this 70-minute excursion showcases the intricate "cave ribbons" and "soda straw" structures for which Natural Bridge Caverns is best known. A portion of this experience takes place in pure darkness, too, making for a thrilling experience that belongs on any adventurer's bucket list.
Within the rolling hills of west-central Kentucky, nestled on the edge of America's Southern Appalachian Region, lies an underground world millions of years in the making. Mammoth Cave is one of the greatest wonders in the country -- and the world. This massive cavern system features some 400 miles of underground caverns and passageways, with more miles being added all the time. In fact, Kentucky’s Mammoth Cave recently got a little longer, following the discovery of an additional eight miles of passages by the Cave Research Foundation. Easily the most famous cave in the country, Mammoth Cave is a place that deserves a top spot on your bucket list.
Meramec Caverns attracts upwards of 150,000 visitors from all over the globe each year, and it's not difficult to see why. The limestone caverns, which date back an estimated 400 million years, boast an impressive history which includes serving as Jesse James's hideout when he was running from the law. Billed as the "Greatest Show Under The Earth," guided tours last 1.5 hours and offer an up-close view of these legendary caves and tunnels. Along the way, you'll discover a plethora of picture-perfect moments as your seasoned tour guides give you insight into the rich history of the limestone caverns. But the fun doesn't stop there; Meramec Caverns is home to an abundance of aboveground adventures, too, making it an amazing destination sure to check several items off your bucket list.
In a state that's world-renowned for its above-ground attractions and metropolises, Howe Cavern is quite literally an outlier -- a wondrous, marvelous outlier. It's one of the most unique natural attractions you'll ever explore in the Empire State -- and country. The caves were first discovered in 1842 after local farmer Lester Howe began noticing that his cows were repeatedly making their way towards a dark opening in the ground. In the years since, the cavern has become a popular destination for adventure seekers. The Traditional Cave Tour not only offers guests an extensive exploration of one of the deepest destinations in the Northeast, but the experience culminates in the deepest boat ride in New York. This epic tour takes guests through an extensive underground cave system that culminates in an underground body of water: the marvelous Lake Venus. Now this truly is an awe-inspiring experience for your bucket list.
Virginia's Shenandoah Valley is a place of incredible beauty, with its rolling mountains and lush landscape. But the beauty here isn't just skin deep; beneath the valley, an otherworldly land awaits. Luray Caverns is one of the most fascinating natural areas in the country, transporting visitors to an underground world of both bizarre and beautiful rock formations. The commercial cave was actually discovered by accident in 1878 and continues to awe travelers and explorers to this day. The enormous site is one of the many treasures in the Shenandoah Valley and is made up of several "rooms," each with unique features. One particularly mesmerizing attraction is the Wishing Well, a teal-colored pool of water that has collected coins from fanciful visitors since the 1950s. Dream Lake is another popular site that doubles as an optical illusion; despite its seemingly endless depth, the pool is only about 18 inches deep! Luray Caverns is a trip down a wondrous, real-life rabbit hole that you won't ever forget.
Did you know that underneath fields of farmland in southeastern Ohio lies an enchanted natural world that began forming millions of years ago? The Ohio Caverns are quite literally one of the Midwest's most glorious -- and colorful -- hidden gems and make for an epic underground adventure for explorers of all ages. Depending on the season, different guided tours are offered, each offering a unique experience of these extensive caves. For guests with limited mobility (or younger families), Ohio Caverns offers a seasonal Limestone Tour with advanced reservations, making this incredible underground cavern system one everyone can experience.
Niagara Cave might have its namesake beat, as this Minnesota wonder features not only an immense underground cavern system, but also a subterranean waterfall. This cave was discovered in 1924 and opened for tours a decade later. Niagara Cave is one of only two caves that you can officially visit in Minnesota, making it all the more rare and special. This is a lovely limestone cave created and carved by water over millions of years; and on a tour, you'll find yourself in a passageway that truly feels like something out of a sci-fi film.
Alabama has one of the highest cave densities in the world, with its expansive subterranean playgrounds attracting some of the top climbers on the planet. In fact, cavers travel from all over the globe to explore the state's spectacular caves. One cave that remains at the top of most cave enthusiasts' bucket lists is DeSoto Caverns. Located at the foot of the Appalachian Mountains in Childersburg, Alabama, DeSoto Caverns is one of the most unexpected treasures in the South. Believed to be America's first recorded cave, DeSoto is full of immense beauty, with the "Great Onyx Cathedral" one of its many hidden treasures. This "cathedral" is actually a room at DeSoto Caverns that's longer than a football field and 12 stories high. Its grandeur cannot be contained in a picture; this is simply a place you must experience for yourself.
Just when you thought California couldn’t get any cooler, you discover that it’s also home to Moaning Caverns. Right in the heart of California’s Gold Country, Moaning Cavernsis home to the largest single cave chamber in the state. Guests can participate in the Spiral Chamber Tour, which allows them to go deep into the cave system via the spiral staircase. This unique cave was first discovered by gold miners in the 1840s, and eventually became the go-to place for underground exploration in California.
Kartchner Caverns is a beautiful state park in Arizona that highlights over two full miles of underground passages. While it’s known for being home to the world’s longest soda straw stalactite, there are plenty of other reasons to visit, too. Kartchner Caverns also has the biggest column in Arizona, standing at 58 feet in height, plus the world’s most extensive formation of brushite moonmilk. Cave tours are available for guests, and reservations are encouraged! You can even rent a helmet and headlamp and feel like a true spelunker.
The Caverns of Contra, Texas are internationally recognized as one of the most beautiful show caves across the globe. Marking the halfway point between Big Bend National Park and San Antonio, these stunning caves offer intimate tours for anyone interested. But the fun doesn’t stop there. The surrounding ranch-style area offers a place to camp or hike, pan for gemstones, or even indulge in homemade fudge. This is the type of outdoor experience that the whole family will love taking together.
The world is a wide, wonderful place, full of opportunities everywhere you turn -- including underground. Fan the flames of your wanderlust with a visit to these unforgettable underworlds, each of which offers an experience that truly is bucket-list worthy. How many of these caves in the U.S. have you already checked off your list?
