Natural Bridge Caverns
Texas
Natural Bridge Caverns, located near San Antonio in Texas Hill Country, is the largest commercial cave system in Texas. Named after a 60-foot natural limestone slab that spans its entrance, the caverns showcase spectacular geological formations including stalactites and other speleothems. The temperature inside remains a constant 70°F (21°C) with 99% humidity year-round, creating an ideal environment for ongoing formation development. Discovered in 1960 by St. Mary's University students, the caverns have been open to the public since 1964 and remain family-operated. Visitors can explore up to 180 feet below the surface in the developed areas, with deeper undeveloped sections reaching 230 feet. The caverns also hold archaeological significance due to findings of ancient human tools and extinct animal bones near the entrance. Beyond tours, the site offers unique experiences such as gem mining, a maze, and seasonal events like underground yoga and archery challenges, making it an engaging destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.
ヒント: Visit during weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience. Purchase tickets online in advance to save money and secure your preferred tour time. Consider exploring both the Discovery and Hidden Wonders tours for a comprehensive experience. Check the official website for seasonal events and special activities like Yoga Underground or the Total Archery Challenge. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket as the caverns maintain a cool, humid climate year-round.
興味深い事実
- •The natural limestone bridge at the entrance spans 60 feet and was formed when a sinkhole collapsed beneath it.
- •The caverns maintain a constant temperature of 70°F (21°C) and 99% humidity year-round.
- •Archaeological excavations found arrowheads and tools dating back to 5000 BCE near the entrance.
- •The Jaremy Room was named by combining the first two letters of the first names of the first three men to enter it: Jack, Reggie, and Myles.
- •Natural Bridge Caverns is a registered US National Natural Landmark since 1971.
歴史
Discovered on March 27, 1960, by four students from St.
Mary's University, the Natural Bridge Caverns quickly revealed over a mile of passageways.
The landowner, Clara Wuest, funded the development after public agencies declined due to funding issues.
Development began in 1963 with a dedicated team, and the caverns opened to the public on July 3, 1964.
In 1971, the site was designated a US National Natural Landmark.
Archaeological finds near the entrance, including tools and extinct animal bones, suggest early human and animal presence.
Subsequent explorations in the late 1960s uncovered additional chambers such as the Jaremy Room and the South Cavern, expanding the known system.
場所ガイド
Natural Limestone Bridge
A 60-foot natural limestone slab forming a bridge over the cavern entrance, created by a sinkhole collapse beneath it. This unique geological feature gives the caverns their name and sets the dramatic amphitheater-like entrance.
Discovery Tour
The main guided tour through the caverns showcasing spectacular stalactites, stalagmites, and other formations while descending up to 180 feet below the surface. The tour highlights geological processes and the caverns' ongoing development.
Jaremy Room1967
A large chamber discovered in 1967 accessed by a shaft drilled 90 feet underground. Named after the first three men who explored it, it features numerous breakdown chambers and rich formations.
South Cavern1968
An extension discovered in 1968 half a mile south of the main caverns, reached through a drilled shaft approximately 150 feet below ground. It adds to the extensive cave system open for exploration and study.
連絡先
電話: (210) 651-6101