Kentucky Cave Networks

If you live in Kentucky and are planning a day activity, preparing for a vacation, or scouting for a film location in the area, the Kentucky Cave Networks can be an exciting and enjoyable destination to explore. The Bluegrass state offers unique natural features and stunning landscapes and is home to a unique collection of caves and caverns – some of which are 10 million years in the making.

Consider adding these unique and beautiful caves to your bucket list:

Mammoth Cave National Park

One of the biggest caves in the region is known as Mammoth Cave National Park. At the moment, it has more than 412 miles of mapped caverns… and they estimated that as much as 600+ miles are still yet to be explored! Mammoth Caves is well known because it is famous as the longest-known cave system in the world. Also, it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981.

Diamond Caverns

This cave was discovered in 1859, and the exploration group was stunned by the glittering formations throughout the cave. The name is fitting because these calcite formations look like a collection of diamonds that sparkle in the light. The chambers look like big cathedrals, and you can enjoy rainbow colors on the illuminated pathway that uses a state-of-the-art lighting system.

Lost River Cave

The Lost River Cave is a must-see if you love the water. You can plan a cave boat tour to move through the stunning 7-mile cave system by water. Or there are options for guided tours on the walking paths in the cave if you prefer. Learn about the range of historical things that happened in this cave, such as Jesse James, Civil War troops, early European settlers, and local Native American communities using it.

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

Not only can you explore the Gap Cave and the natural features between 3 – 5 million years old, but this site is popular because the Cumberland Mountain Pass was an integral landmark during the Civil War. The site was occupied by both the South and North at different points during the Civil War. If you like history and natural features, then make sure to add this destination to your to-do list.

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Written by Becki Andrus in partnership with Marv Golden pilot supplies.