Adventure Exploration and Fun for the Family

Established in 1870, the Ausable Chasm claims to be the oldest natural attraction in the country. More than 10 million people have explored the cavern and all have experienced breathtaking thrills, scenic walks, and historic lessons in science and nature. Visitors travel down 150-feet to the Inner Sanctum of the cavern. There are walkways, stairs, and bridges, offering a unique experience the entire family will love. One of the best attractions at the chasm is the inner tube rides or river raft rides on the Ausable River, all available once you have descended into the chasm.

There are numerous tour and exploration options from which to choose when visiting the chasm. You can take a 30-minute winter waterfall walk that takes you to a point in the area where the near-frozen Rainbow Falls is visible. You will also see the chasm's famous Elephant's Head. There are icicles that hand 150-feet in length, as well as unique formations of rocks that have been blanketed by the winter snowfall. This walk is available daily from 9 am until 4 pm.

The Classic Tour option allows you to add a scenic raft ride and float down the Ausable River through the rock formations and past the falls, the Elephant's Head, Hyde's Cave, and Column Rock, as well as Mystic Gorge. You can walk along the natural stone walkways or enjoy the exploration of geology visible in the stones of the earth. Your walking tour will be at least one mile in length and then you will board the raft and drift through the narrow, deep sections of the chasm. The raft is steered by an expert guide, and you will raft through the Broken Needle, the Grand Flume, and the Whirlpool Basin. The trip is highlighted by educational discussions about the natural history of the area. Rafting tours are open to people who are age two and older. Everyone receives a life jacket and following the rafting portion of the tour, you will be returned to the welcome center area by trolley.

If you would prefer to explore the area on your own, there are self-guided walking tours available. They can be as long as three miles, but you can shorten them. Prepare though to walk at least a full mile. Remember to bring along your camera because there are plenty of photo opportunities ranging from scenic vistas to wildlife, geological history, and blooming flowers and greenery.

If you want your visit to Ausable Chasm to include more adventure than just a walking or rafting tour, you can include a tubing adventure, a lantern tour, horseback riding, or a mining experience. There is plenty to do at the chasm and all of it will make your experience authentic and fun. If you are visiting from out of town there are plenty of places to stay to continue your chasm adventure. Choose from nearby campgrounds, cabins, and motels. If you have a little adventurer in your family, or the adults love exciting and unique vacations, a trip to the Ausable Chasm should be in your future plans.