We all are familiar with life above ground, but what about the mystical wonders just beneath our feet? Touring some of America’s most magnificent caves is a super fun, as well as educational, way to experience nature. These eight caves tours offer an adventure of a lifetime and an opportunity to learn all about the geological phenomena of caves. Like any true explorer knows, there is always more than meets the eye.
1. Tram and cave tours at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park in Colorado
To reach the caverns at the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, visitors are first taken on a 1,300-meter (4,300-foot) European-style tram ride up to the attraction. An underground cave atop Colorado’s Iron Mountains, right in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Glenwood Caverns is a stunning display of geological majesty. A truly magnificent experience for the family, and you can even hit the amusement park after to keep the fun going all day long!
You’re sure to be amazed by inspiring views of the Roaring Fork Valley and the surrounding snow-capped mountains. After the ride, visitors can opt to explore the Historic Fairy Cavern for a quarter-mile underground stroll. Another option is a tour of the King’s Row Cave with colorful views of stalagmites and stalactites.
Tram and cave tours at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park in Colorado
Address: 51000 Two Rivers Plaza Road, 81601 Glenwood Springs, CO
Website:
2. Half-day history and ecology trek at the Makauwahi Cave Reserve in Hawaii
Participants of this tour embark on a half-day ecology trek through the island terrain of Kaua'i to see the biggest limestone cave in all of Hawaii. The cave is accessible via sinkhole, providing tourists with a one-of-a-kind experience. Visitors are given a unique insight into the ecology and animal population of this breathtaking Pacific island, not to mention that this is also the site of early Polynesian artifacts. What better opportunity to channel your inner Indiana Jones than this?
This magical adventure in the Makauwahi Cave Reserve not only allows visitors to see a wide range of native plants and ecological wonders, the trek also includes a visit to see tortoises and other endangered animals. Plus, you’ll find out why the site is geologically unique, with 10,000 years of sedimentary record. The excursion takes about 4 hours.
Half-day history and ecology trek at the Makauwahi Cave Reserve in Hawaii
Address: 96756 Koloa, HI
Website:
3. Natural Bridge Caverns underground walking tour in Texas
Famously known as the largest commercial cavern in the state of Texas, Natural Bridge Caverns is an enormous natural limestone cave created from a sinkhole. A whopping 55 meters (180 feet) underground, the cavern is considered to be a living site, dripping and glistening with water. Just to add to the fun, Natural Bridge Caverns is located directly next to Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch, a fun-for-all drive-through safari experience.
This 75-minute tour is packed with history, and provides a learning opportunity for those who are interested in the caverns’ intriguing rock formations. Discovered only around 1960, the cave is home to amazing structures formed by an array of speleothems. Try and spot interesting structures that has been named: The King’s Throne, Valley of the Fallen Lords, and the Castle of the White Giants.
Natural Bridge Caverns underground walking tour in Texas
Address: 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, 78266 San Antonio, TX
Website:
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4. Antelope Canyon in Arizona (from USD 284.51)
It’s impossible to not get an incredible shot of Antelope Canyon, probably one of the United States’ most stunning landmarks. Located on Navajo land, this water-carved rock formation’s smooth edges and ethereal colors give it an otherworldly feel. Guided by a Navajo local, this tour also includes views of lakes and mountains as well as a boxed lunch.
Tip from Content Creator
Antelope Canyon is a beautiful slot canyon located near Page, Arizona. Previously, it was possible to visit it on your own, but now you need to book a tour to visit this magical place. It’s divided into Upper and Lower Canyons. You can visit both places, but you would need two different tours.
When exploring Antelope Canyon, consider visiting during midday for the best lighting. Due to its popularity, booking a guided tour in advance is advisable to ensure you secure your spot. Cameras are welcome, but tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks are not. You must also wear a face mask all the time and stay with your group.
The trail is a 0.5-mile loop. Everything is flat except for some stairs to go back to the car. Also, note that it’s colder inside, so I would recommend wearing a jacket.
From Flagstaff or Sedona: Antelope Canyon Full-Day Tour
Duration: 11.0 to 12.0 hour
5. Cave of the Winds in Colorado
Yet another marvel located in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, the Cave of the Winds is another geological wonder waiting to be explored. With sections of the cave given names such as the “Giant’s Bleeding Heart” and the “Temple of Silence,” how could you not be intrigued?
Cave of the Winds in Colorado
Address: 100 Cave of the Winds Rd, Manitou Springs, Colorado, USA
Website:
6. Black Canyon kayak tour in Nevada (from USD 149.0)
Situated on the Colorado River where the Hoover Dam was constructed, Black Canyon is teeming with wildlife such as big horn sheep and bald eagles. This tour takes you into the Emerald Cave on the Arizona side of the river. Visitors travel through totally flat water, ideal for those who may be kayaking first-timers. Interestingly, this is the first national water trail to flow through the southwest as well as through a desert.
From Las Vegas: Black Canyon Half-Day Kayak Tour
Duration: 3.0 hour
7. Cave of the Winds in Niagara Falls
This exciting tour takes you as close to the falls as you can possibly get, so this one is for you thrill seekers out there. The cave was originally dubbed ‘Aeolus’ Cave’ after the Greek God of wind but was sadly destroyed in 1954 by a dynamite explosion. However, you can still visit the front section of the original site with fabulous gusts of water and wind.
Visitors are provided with ponchos for the wet trek down the redwood walkway, straight up the grandeur of the falls. This is truly a unique way to experience the wonder of Niagara Falls. Note: this is a seasonal tour as winters bring ice buildup.
Cave of the Winds in Niagara Falls
Address: Cave of the Winds, Niagara Falls, NY
Website:
8. Cave kayak tour in San Diego, CA (from USD 99.0)
San Diego, California’s charming beach town of La Jolla, is home to some of the most incredible sea caves in America. An increasingly popular activity offered in this seaside region is kayak tours. A guide leads tourists through the ecological reserve off the California coastline.
Home to the highest concentration of sea life in the state, this tour takes visitors through the Seven Sea Caves as well as the Emerald Cave. Here participants explore massive kelp forests and immense sea views. Visitors can be sure to get their fill of nature and wildlife with this exciting offer. Book this tour and experience the splendor first-hand.
Lucky visitors have the chance to spot harbor seals, sea lions and even dolphins pass through while en route to the tranquil habitat. This tour lasts for about 90 minutes and provides a great experience for everyone. The tour is open to all regardless of experience levels, but participants have to be aged five years and above. Swimming skills are not required to enjoy this adventure.
La Jolla Sea Cave Kayak Tour for Two of Ecological Reserve
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
More than meets the eye
Cave exploration and tourism is the living example of the cliche: “There is always more than meets the eye.” It is not every day that you get to travel through underground terrain for a firsthand, larger-than-life experience. Each nook and cranny is loaded with something fascinating and eye-opening. Each one of these tours proves to us time and again that Mother Nature’s wonders truly have no end.
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