Cathedral Caverns State Park
Alabama
Cathedral Caverns State Park, located in Kennamer Cove, Alabama, is a remarkable natural history preserve spanning 493 acres. The park centers around Cathedral Caverns, a karst cave known for its immense entrance-measuring 25 feet tall and 128 feet wide, one of the largest commercial cave entrances worldwide. Inside, visitors can marvel at the vast stalagmite forest covering approximately 3 acres, including the colossal 'Goliath,' a stalagmite standing 45 feet tall and 243 feet in circumference, among the largest globally. The cave's interior features a 3,500-foot wheelchair-accessible walkway, winding through stunning formations such as a 32-foot tall flowstone waterfall and the expansive Big Room, which measures 792 feet long and 200 feet wide. The Mystery River flows through the cavern, occasionally causing flooding after heavy rains. The park offers guided cave tours, gem mining activities for all ages, and extensive hiking trails. Its year-round constant temperature of 60 degrees Fahrenheit makes it an appealing destination for visitors and educational groups alike. Beyond the cave, the park provides camping options, picnic pavilions, and backcountry sites, blending natural wonder with recreational amenities. Recognized as a National Natural Landmark since 1972, Cathedral Caverns continues to captivate visitors with its awe-inspiring geological formations and rich natural heritage.
Planen Sie Ihre Reise nach Vereinigte Staaten mit KI
Erstellen Sie in wenigen Minuten einen detaillierten Reiseplan. KI schlägt die besten Orte, Restaurants und eine optimierte Route vor.
Tipp: Plan your visit between spring and fall for optimal weather and accessibility. Reservations for cave tours are recommended to ensure availability, especially on weekends and holidays. The park offers gemstone mining activities suitable for children and families, providing a hands-on experience. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket, as the cave maintains a cool 60-degree temperature year-round. Pets are not allowed inside the cave or park buildings. Consider exploring hiking trails and camping facilities to extend your stay and fully enjoy the natural surroundings.
Interessante Fakten
- •The cave entrance is believed to be the world's widest entrance to a commercial cave, measuring 25 feet tall and 128 feet wide.
- •The stalagmite named 'Goliath' is one of the largest in the world, standing 45 feet tall and 243 feet in circumference.
- •The cave maintains a constant temperature of about 60 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, creating a comfortable environment for visitors.
- •Cathedral Caverns was declared a National Natural Landmark in 1972, recognizing its geological importance.
- •The caverns have appeared in films including the 1983 horror movie 'Secrets of the Phantom Caverns' and Disney's 1995 'Tom and Huck.'
Geschichte
Archaeological evidence indicates Native American presence near Cathedral Caverns as far back as 7000 BCE, with occupation continuing until roughly 200 years ago.
The surrounding area, known as Kennamers Cove, was settled by the Kennamer family, who reportedly took refuge in the cave during the Civil War after their farmhouse was destroyed.
The cave, initially called Bat Cave, was developed as a tourist attraction in the 1950s by Jacob Gurley.
Ownership changed hands in the 1970s before the State of Alabama acquired the site in 1987.
After restoration efforts, Cathedral Caverns was officially opened as a state park in 2000, preserving its natural and historical significance for public enjoyment.
Ortsführer
Grand Entrance
The cave's massive entrance is 25 feet high and 128 feet wide, reputed to be the largest commercial cave entrance in the world, offering a breathtaking first impression.
Goliath Stalagmite
One of the world's largest stalagmites, 'Goliath' stands 45 feet tall and measures 243 feet in circumference, dominating the cavern's interior.
Flowstone Waterfall
A stunning flowstone formation resembling a frozen waterfall, measuring 32 feet tall and 135 feet long, showcasing the cave's unique mineral deposits.
The Big Room
An enormous chamber within the cave, 792 feet long and 200 feet wide, housing many of the cave's remarkable formations and offering expansive views.
Mystery River
A river flowing through the cavern that can cause flooding after heavy rains due to limited outflow, adding an element of dynamic natural processes to the cave environment.
Kontakt
Telefon: (256) 888-0230
