Three highly-decorated limestone caves sit at the top of a strenuous mile-an-a-half trail. It is strongly recommended that you carry at least one liter of water per person on the hike to the caves. Temperatures reach over 100 degrees F on the cave trail in the summer. To help prevent the spread of White-nose Syndrome, a disease that is killing millions of bats in North America, the Monument prohibits any shoes, clothing, or gear (including cameras) that have been in ANY cave or mine at ANY time. Because of the steepness of the trail, strollers and other wheeled vehicles are not allowed. See the visitor center for program options for those unable to make the climb. External frame packs, including baby carriers, are prohibited in the cave. Infants may be carried through in front packs. Visitors with large backpacks are asked to leave their packs outside while they tour the cave. Small packs may be taken through the cave, provided they meet size restrictions. No hiking poles are allowed in the cave. Canes or poles as mobility devices are allowed. Your cave tour experience begins with you picking up your ticket at the visitor center and hiking up the trail. The time yout purchase your ticket for is the time to plan on beginning the hike. All visitors are given an hour and a half from the purchased start time to get to the cave tour. Tickets can be purchased up to 30 days in advance, online or by telephone. Advanced ticket are strongly recommended; see Fees and Passes for more information. The cave is 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7 degrees Celsius) . A light jacket and closed-toed walking shoes are recommended. No pets are allowed on the cave trail. In accordance with the ADA, service animals are allowed on the cave trail and in the cave.
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Last updated: September 29, 2023