If you’re interested in taking on the challenge of your first caving adventure: start here! Stacey Slamka, avid hiker and caving enthusiast, features a simple list of beginner-friendly caving experiences with tours ranging in length and difficulty levels:
Mammoth Cave National Park
Known as the world’s longest cave system, Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky is truly one-of-a-kind. It’s also a great starting point for beginners interested in taking on their very first caving adventure challenge. Across 52,830 acres in Edmonson County, this south-central Kentucky space is something truly unique. Established on July 1, 1941, the space recently celebrated 84 years since its unveiling as a registered U.S. National Park. The cave system was previously known as the Mammoth-Flint Ridge Cave System. However, numerous systems have been discovered since 1941, including in 1972 and as recently as 2022.
Inner Space Cavern
Hidden for well over 10,000 years prior to discovery, Inner Space Cavern is one of the best-preserved caves in the state of Texas — and in the entire country. It’s also a great starting point for beginner cavers! This karst cave in Georgetown was formed by water passing through the Edwards limestone. Historians estimate that the cave has existed for possibly 20-25 million years, but it wasn’t until 14,000 – 45,000 years ago that the location became accessible via a surface opening.
Craters of the Moon National Monument
The Indian Wells Cave at the Creators of the Moon National Monument is another great spot that Stacey Slamka, hiker and caving enthusiast, strongly encourages beginners to check out. Located in the Snake River Plain in central Idaho, this space boasts a vast ocean of lava flows. A truly spectacular natural marvel, Indian Wells Cave is like no other. Guided tours make this a great choice for complete beginners — especially seasoned hikers who might be interested in trying out caving!
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