Explore underground at these caves and caverns
What lies beneath can be cold, damp and compelling. Learn about dry and wet caves, the creatures that live in them and the characteristics that create these natural settings.
Kartchner Caverns, Benson, Arizona:
In 1974, two University of Arizona students and amateur cavers spotted a narrow crack in the bottom of a sinkhole. They followed the unusually moist air and discovered more than 2 miles of unspoiled cave passages. The caverns, carved from limestone, were not opened to the public until 1999 and are part of the Arizona State Park system. Visit this living or “wet” cave to experience stalactites, stalagmites, “cave bacon” and small white helictites.
Luray Caverns, Luray, Virginia:
On a summer day in 1878, the local tinsmith and several adventuresome friends were exploring the countryside in search of a cave. What they found is now one of the most widely visited cavern systems in the eastern half of the
U.S. It is perhaps most well known for its Great Stalacpipe Organ, a lithophone that produces tones similar to musical instruments.
Mammoth Cave National Park, Mammoth Cave, Kentucky: This National Park in the hill country of south central Kentucky preserves the world’s largest known cave system and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore 400 miles of vast chambers and complex labyrinths on a variety of tours designed to appeal to multiple ages and abilities. If you are not sure spelunking is for you and your family, consider the short, small-group Introduction to Caving tour.