Caverns of Kentucky

Kentucky is home to a seemingly endless network of geological wonders to be explored. Follow me, and we will take a close look at what awaits below   . . . 

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Underneath the Surface of The Bluegrass State

​If you want to explore the underground reaches of the planet, then Kentucky's Cave City should be at the very top of your bucket list. There are several caverns in this area alone that can be toured on a daily basis. In two days I took on as many of these geological wonders as I could fit in to my tight schedule.
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​Let's take a look!

Crystal Onyx Cave

Crystal Onyx Cave is one of the smaller in the area, but don't let that deter you. This is one of the most beautiful and interesting caves I have visited. When you arrive, you will immediately notice the quirky decorations that inhabit the exterior. Everything from aliens to dragons have been collected and strategically placed. ​Once inside, the environment takes on a more typical cavern appearance with only the occasional dinosaur roaming about.

Upon descent you will immediately notice the cool air rushing up from below, with an average temperature around 58 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a wet cave, meaning that it is continuously growing. The constant drip of water from the limestone provides deposits of minerals that create the formation we enjoy today. There is actually not any crystal or onyx in this cave. The shining glow along much of the surface is created by deposits of calcite which sparkles under the lights. In this type of ecosystem it is important not to touch the formations, as oil from our skin can disrupt their growth. 

In one area we were educated on how a sink hole is formed. It was then pointed out that we were in one, as the ceiling above us was actually the roots at the base of a tree. After that interesting experience we continued our journey deeper into the earth to explore some amazingly beautiful subterranean landscapes. ​

​This cave has undergone a change in ownership over the past few years, with the new proprietor currently working on opening up new areas for exploration. There is a bit of work going on at the moment, and I can imagine that this place will continue to provide even more amazing tours in the future. At only $16 per ticket, this tour was a real bargain. Stop by and check them out! 

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Diamond Caverns

Historic Diamond Caverns is another fine example of a "wet cave", as the ever flowing water below allows the minerals to continue accumulating. You will quickly notice how clear the water is in these caverns. Limestone filtered water is extremely pure, and is one of the most important ingredients in Kentucky Bourbon. It was the flow of water that created the amazing cave systems of Kentucky. The tour guide provided detailed information on the impact of swift versus slow moving water and the patters this mighty force of nature leaves behind. The man who discovered this cave immediately got his hopes up when seeing the glowing sparkle down below - but sorry, no diamonds here. 

A previous owner of this cave had an enormous interest in geology, and decided to cut a couple of the stalagmites in half to provide an educational display of how this type of formation. As you can see in one of the above photos, growth rings are visible almost like those found within the trunk of a tree. 

Along this tour we were not only educated about the geology but also a period in Kentucky's history known as "The Cave Wars". During this time, competitors from other caverns would break into each others caves with the intent on destroying the natural beauty within. This was only one attempt at cornering the cavern market, as other methods were also employed. At time they would also remove rocks and formations to be sold at their own cave's gift shops. Fortunately, this devastating era came to an end when a law was passed protecting these environments. The various properties now work peacefully together, and although many repairs have been made over the years, much of the vandalism can still be seen today. 

This 45 minute tour cost $20, and was well worth it. You definitely don't want to pass this one up while in the area but be warned, this epic adventure requires a respectable amount of walking and many steps to be climbed. 

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Mammoth Cave

Spanning over 400 miles underground, Mammoth Cave boasts the title of "Largest Known Cave System" in the world. This marvelous wonder of nature was established as a National Park in 1941, and in 1981 it gained the status of World Heritage Site. Mammoth Cave gets its name from the sheer immensity of its size  - sorry no mammoths have been found here. 

Inside the cave you will notice much evidence of human presence throughout the ages. Researchers have determined that human activity within the cave dates back thousands of years. Early modern explorers attempted to map out this enormous underworld with nothing more than lamplight. Many of them would leave their mark by scorching the ceiling with candles creating burned lettering that is still legible today. 

Although there are multiple options available, I chose The River Styx Tour. This was a two and a half hour trek into the depths of the earth in search of the flowing water that feeds the Green River of Kentucky. Along the way you will be provided with historical information regarding the many attempts at mapping out this enormous. Along the way you will meander through areas ranging from grand passageways to the very tight squeeze known as "Fat Man's Misery". 

Tips for your trip:

• Pick a tour that is the most appropriate for your level of athleticism. Some of them require much more walking, along with a bit of stair climbing.  
• Keep in mind that The River Styx Tour is a pretty long adventure of about two and a half hours, so it's a good idea that you take advantage of your last chance for the restrooms before beginning your descent.
• Photography can be a bit trickier in Mammoth Cave compared to the other ones, as the rooms can be very large and the lighting is a bit more ambient.  ​

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Sand Cave

Sand Cave Trailhead is located along Old Mammoth Cave Road, just inside the national park. This one offers an entirely different style of adventure, as it requires no reservation, ticket, or tour. This one is a completely self guided exploration that takes you on a short hike along a carefully constructed boardwalk through the woods. Along the way there are multiple sign posts providing information about the history and events surrounding this location. You may even find a nice spot to sit and relax. 

The history you will encounter here is centered around spelunker Floyd Collins. It was in late January of 1925 that this daring cavern enthusiast was exploring 60 feet below and became pinned by a fallen rock. The unsuccessful rescue attempt spanned 16 days. The widespread media coverage of this event brought much attention to the area, and eventually led to the creation of the national park that we enjoy today. 

Interesting Fact:
Floyd's glass-topped coffin was temporarily on display in Crystal Cave. After his body was stolen and desecrated, he was later interred at a nearby cemetery. ​

​When you arrive at the end of the boardwalk, the cave can be seen just below. A pathway leads of of the walk and down to the mouth of the cave. Be very careful along this trail, as the roots and rocks can be a bit of a hazard. Glancing into the darkness, you can hear the peaceful sound of water dripping and flowing. This is where my exploration stopped. It seems that to go any further would require a bit of expertise. In fact, the sign specifically tells you - Do not enter the cave! 

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These underground ecosystems are only a fraction of what you will find in these parts. There are many other caves scattered throughout the region. I recommend spending a few days in Kentucky's Cave City to thoroughly explore all of the natural wonders this area has to offer.  

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