Take a Unique Clear Kayak Tour Through Eastern Kentucky’s Magical Caves

There's no better way to shake things up than to go out on an adventure in Kentucky. Many are surprised to learn that the Bluegrass State is filled with unique adventures and countless opportunities to explore the outdoors—both above and below the ground. For example, why not take a clear kayak tour through Kentucky's cave systems?

Cave tours and hikes are popular excursions in our state, but you can now have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to take a crystal clear kayak tour in Kentucky. Led by SUP Kentucky, this is an exciting addition to their already impressive lineup of adventures, and it more than deserves a spot on your bucket list. Are you ready for a day of Kentucky cave kayaking? Let's do it!

Why Tourists Flock to This Unique Kentucky Cave Tour

SUP Kentucky is a traveling adventure company, located in Grayson and Rogers, Kentucky, that takes locals and visitors around the state to explore natural wonders via stand-up paddleboard and kayak. Many of their outings are held throughout the warmer months at places like Grayson Lake, shown below, but their underground kayak adventures are held year-round.

The company's cavern glow tours in Red River Gorge are truly unique and appropriate for all levels of adventurers—even beginners! You can choose to stand-up paddleboard or kayak on a hybrid board and enjoy exploring the vast cave system underneath the Gorge. Now, tourists and locals can enjoy a crystal clear kayak tour—unlike any other experience in the Bluegrass State.

What to Expect During the Tour

Before embarking on this underground mine glow experience, you'll need to arrive 30 minutes early for a safety briefing. Staff will go over best practices for navigating the waters in the cave, whether you're using a kayak or a paddleboard. Choose from a tandem kayak or board—either way, you'll be given a life jacket and head lamp before the journey. And don't worry: It's very rare for someone to fall in the water!

From there, a guide will lead you through the cave entrance, where you'll enjoy a 90-minute ride through fascinating rock formations and glowing water. You might see some rainbow trout in the water below, or even Kentucky brown bats hanging from the limestone walls. Eventually, you'll come upon a unique underground waterfall! The quiet, yet echoey cave, babbling water, and deep expanse will leave you speechless. The glass-bottom boats add to the ambience.

After the tour, you'll have 15 minutes to take photos and enjoy the Red River Gorge scenery. This clear kayak tour is available year-round, and temperatures in the cave remain at a steady 50 degrees Fahrenheit. So be sure to bundle up if you get chilly easily!

While this nature tour is family-friendly, SUP Kentucky recommends children be 12 or older to participate in this adventure. That said, kids younger than 12 can join the small tours with adult supervision—just be sure to contact tour staff ahead of time to see if any special requirements are needed.

Helpful Tips Before You Go On This Unique Kayak Tour

Before booking this incredible underground cave tour, there are some tips to keep in mind. Reservations are required for all SUP Kentucky tours; book online well before your desired tour dates to secure a spot. Tickets start around $75/adult on weekdays and $85/adult on weekends. Make sure you arrive at least 30 minutes early to get your bearings and listen to the safety briefing.

If you're not used to the chill of caves, make sure you bring a light sweater or wear long pants to cover your legs. And if you bring your phone or camera, cover it with a waterproof layer so that it doesn't get wet. Wear water shoes or sneakers to help grip the paddleboard, too.

And while the clear kayak tour is available year-round, other SUP Kentucky experiences take place during specific seasons. The paddleboarding tours, for example, typically take place from April through October. So if you're not thrilled about the idea of paddling through a cave, check out the tours around Cumberland Falls or Grayson Lake—other bucket list-worthy outdoor adventures.

Have you ever done one of these famous Kentucky cave experiences? If not, book your journey to the Blugrass State's underground world with SUP Kentucky. If you live close by, it makes for an amazing Kentucky day trip. But if you live far away, we highly suggest camping at Red River Gorge or finding other lodging options in the area. Campton or Stanton are great nearby towns to stay in, as well.

For another underground Kentucky adventure, book an exciting cave boat tour with The Gorge Underground. It's perfect if you're traveling with family, kids, and large groups.