Kids and Family Cave Tour

Kids and Family tour testing the temperature of the River Styx at the cave entrance with Ranger Neil

NPS/Rob Parenti

Family-Friendly Ranger-Led Cave Tour

Join us for a fun and educational caving adventure designed especially for families with kids! This lively, 90-minute tour is led by a knowledgeable ranger who will share age-appropriate content while keeping things engaging for energetic youngsters. It’s the perfect way to explore the wonders of the cave in a safe, kid-centered environment. With a group size limited to 12 people, it’s a great opportunity for families to bond over nature and discovery. Tours are available during the summer, and while tickets are first-come, first-served, we recommend making reservations. For dates and times, check the Plan Your Visit section.

Who Can Join

This tour is for visitors with children aged 13 and under who meet the 42-inch height requirement. Children must be accompanied by a family member who is 16 years or older. The cave route is not safe for small children, and for safety reasons, children cannot be carried through the cave.

Physical Considerations

Please be aware that this cave tour is physically demanding. Participants must be able to walk and stoop through narrow, twisting passages, including an 88-foot stretch with ceilings as low as 45 inches. Additionally, the route includes more than 500 steps, many of which are steep, uneven, and lack handrails. For safety, all visitors will be asked to demonstrate their ability to navigate the cave by crouching to 45 inches and walking a few steps. If a visitor is unable to do so, they will be able to explore Watson’s Grotto, the first room of the cave, but may need to exit the tour at that point.

This moderately strenuous tour is not recommended for individuals with heart conditions, breathing difficulties, balance issues, or those with back, knee, hip, ankle, or foot problems.

Protect the Cave

For the preservation of the cave, please avoid touching the cave walls or features along the route. An interactive exhibit at the visitor center offers a hands-on experience for those interested in learning more about the cave's geology.

What to Bring

• Warm clothing (the cave is a cool 44°F/7°C year-round).
• Comfortable walking shoes (no open-toed shoes, flip-flops, or sandals).

What Not to Bring

For safety and conservation, please leave flashlights, backpacks, large purses, walking sticks, and tripods at home.

Protect Our Bats

Help protect bats by not wearing or bringing any clothing, shoes, or gear that has been used in other caves or bat habitats. White-nose syndrome, a deadly disease affecting bats, can spread through spores carried on personal items.