Cool Off at Luray Caverns
Just 90 minutes from downtown Washington, DC is one of the areas most interesting, amazing and “coolest” (a constant mid-50s temperature) attractions – Luray Caverns in the picturesque Shenandoah Valley. A quick road trip is the perfect family weekend activity.
Discovered in 1878, Luray Caverns are the largest underground caverns on the East Coast and a Registered Natural Landmark.
The 1.25 mile walking tour (paved walkways), takes you about 16 stories deep into the earth and winds through pristine and natural underground caverns, including the massive, 10-story tall Giant’s Hall.
The path traverses through a few tight passageways with low ceilings as well.
The stalactites and stalagmites are formed by dripping crystallized calcite that collects on the floor or sticks to the ceiling and dries, slowly forming the long pillars. Many of the formations are still growing, at the slow rate of about one inch every 120 years.
Stalactites (hanging tight to the ceiling) and stalagmites (might eventually reach the ceiling from the floor), reach over 35 feet in some areas. In other areas walls or sheets of formations have formed hanging curtains.
Near the end of the tour, you’ll stop to hear the Stalacpipe Organ, which uses no pipes, only electrical charges and vibration devices run through stalactites which in turn creates musical tones. And don’t miss the “fried eggs” as well.
The Car and Carriage Caravan Museum next door (admission is included in your ticket price) displays a collection of antique cars, carriages and wagons, dating back to 1725.
After your tour, check out the confusing Garden Maze. Using 8 feet tall hedges, maze-walkers must navigate a fog-misted half-mile internal path that allows you to make 40 “which-way-do-we-go” decisions. But fear not if you get lost, there is an elevated platforms to climb, which gives you a bird’s eye view of your way out.
That is, if you can even find the platform.
Luray Caverns
970 W. Main Street
Luray, VA 22835-1060
Dates and Times – 75-90 minute guided tours start at 9:00 a.m. daily, until 7:00 p.m. through Labor Day. Tours start about every 10-20 minutes, depending on crowds. The caverns close earlier during other seasons.
Tickets – Includes admission to the car museum, Adults – $19.00, Seniors – $16.00, kids 6-12 – $9.00, under 5 – free with adult, and are available onsite. Garden Maze – Adults – $ 6.00, children 6-12 – $ 5.00
Parking – Free parking is provided.
Note: This tour requires walking and has three staircases and steep grades along the route and is not considered wheelchair accessible. Strollers are allowed.
Images – from personal collection – ©2008, Jon Rochetti
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