The midwestern state of Georgia features many thrilling caves, most of which may not be commercialized compared to those in other states. A reason behind this might be for protecting the endangered species and fragile ecology. Exploring these caves, particularly the vertical ones, can be challenging, including technical climbing, crawling and squeezing yourself through tight passages, and wading through the cave streams. But, once you succeed, you will have an unforgettable experience witnessing the unique and breathtaking formations.
Ellison’s cave, the state’s deepest, has a length of over 12 miles, stretching vertically for 1063 feet. As you go inside, you will find two aptly named cave drops, ‘Fantastic,’ and ‘Incredible,’ the former being the deepest and unobstructed pit. Besides these, you will find many other pits like Smokey I and Smokey II along the soluble limestone walls. Hence, you need to access several different and dark routes to the cave floor. Because of the several challenges involved in its exploration, this one is only for experienced spelunkers and not beginners.
Other activities: You can also visit the nearby Crockford-Pigeon Mountain Wildlife Management Area and indulge in adventurous sports like hiking, biking, or rock climbing. If you desire some more exploration, go up to the Pettyjohn’s Cave, situated nearby.
Hours of operation: Not recorded
If crawling and getting yourself muddy does not bother you, then you can explore this cave, positioned on the eastern side of the Pigeon Mountains. Once you get inside the 6.5 miles cave through a 4 feet wide entrance, you will have to climb down to the main chamber. From here, you will see several rooms around, some of which are too low and narrow.
You can scramble into the tight passageway of the 150 feet Worm Tube that leads to the Echo Room, the cave’s largest room with high ceilings. Another interesting site is The Bridge Room, where you can listen to the soothing sound of the stream flowing 20 feet below. Apart from this, there are two marvelous waterfalls and other passageways which you can explore. On your way, you might also spot little brown bats and tri-colored bats in winter.
In addition to the stalagmites and stalactites, you will get to see pillars, soda straws, cave pearls, flowstones, etc.
You would for sure be in for many adventures here, yet, the cave is safe enough and easy to explore, apt for beginners.
Other activities: This Cave is within Crockford-Pigeon Mountain Wildlife Management Area, which provides an array of outdoor activities, from hiking to wildlife watching. Camping in the designated areas would also be ideal.
Hours of operation: 24 hours
This Cave in Fox Mountain Preserve is an exciting one with 5.5 miles of long and horizontal passages. Though a very challenging hike, you will have a great deal of adventure getting inside these passages. Despite a horizontal cave, it still needs some experience and technical knowledge on the part of the cavers because of the increased difficulty levels it involves. It’s pretty warm inside, so you’ll feel comfortable enough when visiting in winter.
Other activities: You can hike the Fox Mountain. In addition, there are plenty of campsites and rental cabins to spend overnight in neighboring places like Rising Fawn.
Hours of operation: Not recorded
This wild Cave in Cloudland Canyon State Park has a massive opening. But as you go further, the ceiling becomes lower to the extent that you have to crawl your way in the mud for a considerable distance till you come to an open room. Since it’s a wet cave, you have to soak your feet in cold waters. So, don’t forget to wear waterproof, warm clothes before entering. There are different rock formations like stalagmite and stalactite. Though you do not need ropes to get inside, cavers, particularly those without any technical knowledge or experience, are advised to have a professional guide.
Other activities: You can hike the trails in Cloudland Canyon that leads to two spectacular waterfalls. If mountain biking is your passion, visit the Five Points Recreation area. Also, you can sit back and enjoy a picnic in the place designated for this purpose within the state park once you have completed the mammoth task of spelunking the cave.
Hours of operation: 7 am till Sunset
Frick’s Cave in Walker County near the Lookout Mountain’s eastern side is inhabited by the endangered Gray Bats and Tennessee Cave Salamanders. Hence, there is a restriction on public access for this reason. Only if you are a professional caver you can seek permission from SCCI (Southeastern Cave Conservancy). In addition, the cave also allows the members of SCCI to access it along with their guests on Appreciation Day, held annually in winter. If you get a chance to explore it, don’t forget to dress appropriately, as besides being muddy, it is a wet cave, and the cold stream water might flow till your knee-length. Despite these hurdles, you are sure to be delighted to see the fascinating insights of the complex passages of the cave.
Other activities: Options of camping in the primitive campsites the night before you go spelunking is also available here.
Hours of operation: Not recorded
Inside Cloudland Canyon State Park, you will find Case Cave. What’s interesting is that to descend into the cave, you need to rappel for about 30 feet to get to it. Once you get inside, you can see the stunning geological formations along the three miles of the passageway. In addition, the lake flowing inside is another key attraction. Taking a tour with the local tour companies will help to educate about the cave formations.
Other activities: You can go hiking, picnicking, camping, mountain biking, horseback riding, or golfing, all of the provisions made by the state park. If you wish to halt the night, you can put up at the accommodations in the nearby towns of Rising Fawn or Chickamauga.
Hours of operation: Not recorded
Howard’s Waterfall Cave is another interesting one that cavers of all levels can access. As soon as you enter it, you need to crawl for about 60 feet and get yourself wet until you come to an open chamber. On the left side of it, you will notice a gated area, within which lie the walls containing some fascinating inscriptions written in the Cherokee Syllabary. The purpose of the gates was to protect the walls that were once subjected to vandalism and littered. To visit here, you need prior permission from the SCCI.
Other activities: This Cave falls in Dade County of Georgia, where you can explore many other caves.
Hours of operation: Not recorded
Located in Fox Mountain Preserve, Rusty Cave is one of the deepest in the state. Remember to carry your rope along with other essentials, as you need to rappel to the entrance pit, which is 45 feet deep. There are many geological formations inside to leave you amazed. To park your vehicle, you will find a parking lot near the preserve.
Other activities: Fox Mountain is also home to many other caves, and you can also hike several trails.
Hours of operation: Not recorded
This vertical cave in Fox Mountain Preserve is another site to explore. After descending for 153 feet, you will come to the entrance pit. From here, you will find many passageways of about 3 miles leading to large rooms, one being the ballroom. Squeezing into one of these narrow tunnels will let you uncover the wonders of the cave. You might also find bats dwelling in any corner as you explore inside.
Other activities: Besides exploration, you can also enjoy nature gazing and hiking in the nearby trails. Since it is in Georgia’s Rising Fawn region, you could stay for a day or two at the several rentals available there.
Hours of operation: Not recorded
Rolater Park is home to a pretty little limestone cave that anyone can access. It is well illuminated, highlighting the stalagmites inside. Don’t miss seeing the “Devil’s Stool,” a marvelous rock formation found inside the cave. With a constant temperature of 57 degrees, you will find the cave cool even on a hot day. Entering the cave requires a small amount of $1.
Another interesting fact about this cave is that it is a haunted one. If ghosts and paranormal activities fascinate you, don’t miss taking the two-day Cave Spring Ghost Tour, held during Halloween every year.
Other activities: You can have a merry time in Rolater Park once done exploring the cave, enjoying activities like swimming, hiking, picnicking, or feeding the fish.
Hours of operation: 10 am to 5 pm
Along the Georgia and Florida borders sits the Climax Caverns, one of the largest dry cave systems in the US. Going through the many passageways will unveil the geological wonders present inside. Seeing the beautiful plant and animal fossils embedded in the cave rocks will surely leave you spellbound. Though it is a dry cave, there are some submerged passages and rooms also. You can also witness a waterfall after getting through one of the passageways.
The cave is also home to rare species, including the Georgia blind salamander and the Southeastern myotis bat. Since it is within a private property, the owner would get you to sign a safety release and then permit you to visit it.
Other activities: Nature-gazing would be ideal as there are many unique native plants and trees to see in the surrounding areas.
Hours of operation: Not recorded
Beside the Hawthorne trail in northern Grady County, you will find this cave in the middle of a field. The cave’s entrance is in a sinkhole and is a heavily gated one. You need to possess technical caving skills to descend to the main chamber. From here, you have to crawl through the many passageways, which will lead you to witness the fantastic geological formations.
Do not miss seeing the “Granny Star” and “Angel Wings,” two of the most beautiful crystal star-like formations. Apart from this, the entire cave also has stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations. The Diamond Room, having geological shapes like Christmas trees, and the Tomb Room resembling a pyramid are few examples.
Other activities: There is a museum and history center that you can explore in Grady County to know about the rich historical insights it possesses.
Hours of operation: Not recorded
Also known as Kumistavi Cave, it is a must-visit for anyone. With the help of a guide, you will come across interesting stalactites and stalagmites formations inside. The colorful lights make it even more attractive. A boat tour on the cave river would give you an unforgettable experience. However, you need to get the tickets beforehand. In addition, you can also see a magnificent hanging waterfall. Overall, touring inside the cave will make you feel like you have entered a fairy tale world.
Other activities: You can also visit the nearby Melouri Cave and Bgheri Cave for a similar experience.
Hours of operation: 10 am to 6 pm
TOP PICKS
Best Caves with Waterfalls: Pettyjohn’s Cave, Prometheus Cave Natural Monument, Climax Caverns
Best Underground Caves: Prometheus Cave Natural Monument, Glory Hole Caverns, Rolater Park Cave Spring
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