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October 21st, 2008
We decided it was time to travel to Shenandoah for a mid-week vacation. We figured fall in mid-week was the best way to see the fall colors as well as beat the crowds. So our trip was Tuesday through Thursday.
The original point of the trip was a romantic bed/breakfast getaway, to see the caverns and hike in the mountains to see waterfalls. The latter didn't come true because of weather, but we did go into the caverns. I was a bit shocked they were right there on the main drag... and the entrance was a doorway off a gift shop and not down but a few steps and you were in it! I thought it'd be like a long road into a cave near or in a mountain! It was unique; very large and almost surreal to see such natural formations underground.
The caverns do not have restrooms INSIDE of it, so go potty before or after... and no food/drinks/strollers are allowed inside. It is NOT handicapped assessable and it's not because they don't want to, it's because of the nature and stability of the natural formations. You are not allowed to touch ANYTHING. The steps are steep... those with poor heart conditions should be aware; and there's no elevator I don't think. I had a hard time climbing back up... my heart was really pumping! There is a water fountain, restaurant etc outside the caverns. There is also a restroom and gift shop. Parking is free. The caverns are expensive; about 19.00 full price admission I think; kids are 9.00 and I believe there are cheaper rates for school and other groups. Discounts are available for AAA, Military, Ukrop and other entities, so ask... It's cool; a sweater is recommended...the temperature is stable all year round! So mid winter or summer the temperature should stay the same. You should bring film/camera, comfortable shoes are a must and money for the gift shop; they have some nice items in there from local Indian pottery and some natural minerals and the traditional touristy stuff. Save your ticket stub! you can get into the car/carraige museum free with that stub! We bought a mineral at the shop and a soda, but nothing else... but next door is an antique/collectible store as well. Alas it was all country type items, so if you love that, you'll be in heaven. There is a restaurant there too, but not much in there for my tastes, but plain foods like Pizza etc. The caverns can't be missed. It's the largest thing in the area and when you see the dinosaur from the Zoo or the Singing Bell Tower, then you are there.
1) Can you see Scooby Doo? 2) Ceiling formations 3) Curtain formation 4) Looks
like hanging fish 5) Fried Eggs?
1) This is where they found the bones of an Indian Woman whose bones are now part of the Smithsonian 2) an underground "lake" 3) Caverns 4) Caverns 5) Caverns
1) - 5) All different Cavern formations including stalactite and stalagmite
1) Cool formations 2) Pluto's Ghost 3) Looks like teeth
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