Wondering what it is like to explore underground? Head to the Howe Caves and you can find out! The elevator leads you 156-feet below the surface of the earth to caves that are six million years old. In the cool 52 degree temperatures, you get to explore the cracks and crevices of the underground caves. While doing this in the wild may require special training, visiting Howe Caverns means someone with just a curious interest in caving can enjoy.
Led by a trained tour guide, people can navigate the formations, stalagmites, stalactites, and flowstone, all while learning about the earth and the process of caving. You and your group will move through limestone corridors, massive boulders, galleries of cavernous formations, and around and over riverbed terrain. The underground caverns are interesting, fascinating, and just a bit spooky. Rocks may have a fluid look to them and they may look as if they are moving. There are pathways that lead to mysterious grottoes, and shadows and twists around every turn.
Three tours of the caves are available. The Traditional Tour lasts about 80 minutes and includes a walking portion and a boat ride. There are no reservations required and all ages can participate. You will descend by elevator with your guide and then be led through the galleries and boulder areas. The journey leads you past River Styx, The Sentinels, Titan's Temple, and The Giant Formation that is located on the shore of Lake of Venus. This tour is a great way for families to enjoy the caves and learn about the secret underground world.
If you are looking for a unique, nearly spooky way to view the caves, consider the Lantern Tour. This two hour tour is offered on weekend evenings and is only available to those over 16 years of age. You must reserve space in order to participate, but the tour is well worth this effort. You ride the boat by the light of a lantern to The Lake of Venus where all electric light in the cave is eliminated and you are led by the light of torches and lanterns.
The Adventure Tour is also a two hour tour that is like an introduction to spelunking. Kids 12 and over are allowed to participate and you must reserve your space at least 48 hours ahead of time. Dress comfortably in clothing that you do not mind getting dirty. You will be supplied with helmets, knee pads, and boots. You will be crawling, climbing, and moving through parts of the cavern that is not open during regular tours.
All of your caving is sure to get you hungry. Grab a bite to eat right on the premises at the Howe Caverns Caf, or the Sweet Shop. You can mine for gems, grab lunch, eat fudge, and wash it down with a warm cup of Starbucks coffee. Nearby are overnight packages available at comfortable and affordable accommodations. If you want to feed your sense of adventure, head to Howe Caverns in New York.
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