If you have always been intrigued by underground caves, then Kentucky is the best place to be. The Bluegrass State is known for many things; but if you know the state well, then you are quick to share that Kentucky is one of the best destinations in the world for cave exploration. Of course, we all know and love Mammoth Cave, the longest known system in the world, but the other caves in the state are very much worth a visit.
If you're looking for a unique experience that you can't have anywhere else, then head to Hidden River Cave and the American Cave Museum. Here, you'll find the longest underground swinging bridge in the world. This underground swinging bridge in Kentucky is remarkable, just waiting to be explored!
Hidden River Cave & American Cave Museum is located in Horse Cave, a town that's filled with history and intrigue.
The town and the cave pretty much go hand-in-hand, and they've both been through quite a lot over the years. The cave was actually commercialized from 1912-1943, and then for 50 years, this Kentucky wonder was basically used as an open sewer.
Thankfully, the American Cave Conservation Association took over, and has transformed this wonder into a place the town is now proud to show off to visitors.
The opening to the cave is one of the largest and most scenic in the country. You will be in awe as you descend beneath the ground into this magical underground world.
Public tours are offered year-round, and you will want to book your excursion through the website.
The guided tours last 45-60 minutes, and will teach you about the incredible history of this record-setting wonder.
This public tour will also take you into the most beautiful areas of the cave and you'll experience things you never would above ground.
It is suitable for all ages, just keep in mind that you have to climb over 200 stairs to get back out of the cave. For those who are even more adventurous, book a Cave Adventure Tour and prepare to get dirty.
But you can now get your heart racing a bit even on the public tour with the addition of this swinging bridge.
At about 100 feet, it is the longest underground swinging bridge in the world. It stretches through sections of the cave and hovers over open space that goes deep within the Earth.
You can cross the bridge while on the tour, for a unique and slightly unnerving experience.
This bridge just recently Swinging bridges are popular in Kentucky, but typically you'll find them on scenic hiking trails -- especially of the underground variety. This underground swinging bridge in Kentucky makes the entire experience totally unique and memorable.
Ultimately, the swinging bridge leads to an area of the cave that hasn't always been accessible, so a day spent here is a totally unique adventure.
If you've never explored Hidden River Cave in Kentucky, what are you waiting for? And if you're feeling extra adventurous, you can add a zipline experience or rappelling excursion to your visit at Hidden River Cave. That sounds pretty cool, right?
The experiences you can have at Hidden River Cave are out of this world, so it only makes sense that it is now also home to the longest underground swinging bridge in the world. Test your courage and take a guided tour through the cave and give this memorable bridge a try. Did you know this was now hiding underground in Kentucky? Would you cross it? Let us know in the comments!
For more information on Hidden River Cave and the American Cave Museum, visit their website here. Public tours do not require a reservation and they are offered all year long. Cave and Museum Address: 119 E Main Street, Horse Cave, KY, 42749
There's a whole other world right beneath our feet, and these eight underground adventures in Kentucky will show you some of the most secret, enchanting spots in the state.
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