You Have to Experience This Cave Hike in Florida For Yourself

Florida may be best known for its soft-sand beaches, but the state is also home to many other beautiful natural wonders. We have crystal-clear springs, mysterious sink holes and awe-inspiring caves. To explore the latter, nature lovers should plan a visit to Florida Caverns State Park in the Panhandle town of Marianna. The park protects 10 acres of caverns and is home to the exciting Beech-Magnolia and Bluff Loop Trail, the state’s only hike that goes through a cave. 

The Beech-Magnolia and Bluff Loop Trail is an easy hike of only 1.4 miles. Still, even advanced thru-hikers should add it to their list, as there’s nothing quite like it in all of Florida. Although you can start in either part of the composite trail, setting off from Bluff Loop will let you reach Tunnel Cave in less than five minutes. The cave cuts through a large, imposing rock in the middle of the path. It's large enough that adults can enter, but most people will need to crouch down a bit while crossing to the other side.

Because caves retain moisture, the tunnel tends to be slippery, so it's best to take your time. Going slowly also gives you the opportunity to observe the interesting details of the cave’s walls and ceiling—and to get some great pictures. Anyone with an aversion for tight spaces can skip the tunnel and simply use a side route that goes around the cave. If possible, however, I’d recommend leaning into the discomfort and braving the tunnel. After all, you’ll have to leave the state for a similar experience. 

Once you've passed through Tunnel Cave, the trail gives way to limestone bluffs from which you can observe the Chipola River floodplain swamps. Continuing ahead, you’ll soon see an exit that’ll take you back to the visitor center. Keep walking straight to connect with the Beech-Magnolia trail. This path is known for its hardwood forest and also hides the largest Florida elm tree ever found. Other cool species that can be found here include rare Florida torreya trees, ferns, cypresses, and, of course, Beech and Magnolia trees. In either part of the composite trail, keep an eye out for alligators in the swampy wetlands and for birds like blue jays, woodpeckers and cardinals. If you get lucky, you may even see a hawk.

The entire hike takes most people from 30 minutes to an hour, so you’ll have time to explore the rest of the majestic Florida Caverns State Park.  Joining a guided Cave Tour is another unmissable experience, as this is the only place in the state where you get to go right into the belly of a cave. During the tour, you'll see an underground world that was formed 38 million years ago, and visit a series of chambers displaying stalactites, stalagmites, and draperies of different sizes. Tours happen on a first-come, first-served basis, and cost $16 (in addition to the park’s $5 per vehicle entrance fee).

If you can’t get enough of Florida’s underground world, head to the caves in Withlacoochee State Forest near the Gulf Coast or go diving in an underwater cave near Paradise Springs. Whichever adventure you choose will give you a glimpse of an underrated yet magical side of Florida. 

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.