Do you know what "spelunking" is? Turns out, it's the art of exploring caves, and it's pretty darn cool. Some people spelunk as part of their jobs, such as in the case of geologists or archaeologists. Others spelunk as a hobby, and if you fall into the latter group, you're in luck. There are actually a handful of caves that are not too far from Cleveland, and upon entering them you'll be engulfed in a subterranean world that's practically alien. Grab your spelunking gear and bug spray, because we're about to take you on a crazy adventure!
1. Seneca Caverns, 1528 East Township Road 178, Bellevue
Seneca Caverns is a subterranean wonderland featuring seven levels that are open to the public. It actually has more than 13 levels, but its lower portions are flooded except in periods of severe drought. For tour times and pricing, visit this link.
2. Deer Lick Cave, Deer Lick Cave Loop, Brecksville Reservation
This overhang was carved out of Berea sandstone by water. In fact, when Ohio was covered by ocean, salt was trapped in the sandstone. Deer need salt in their diet, so many local fauna lick it from this structure, which is where it derives its name.
3. Crystal Cave, 978 Catawba Street, Put-In-Bay
Crystal Cave is actually the world's largest geode, a large, crystal-coated cavity nestled into a single rock. Many of its crystals were once mined for use in fireworks, but it is still a spectacular sight nonetheless. It is about a two hour drive from Cleveland, so consider staying for the weekend to explore South Bass island.
4. Sheriden Cave, 722 OH-586, Carey
Day trip, anyone? This limestone formation is a treasure trove of Clovis-era artifacts and megafauna fossils, and it has been featured in documentaries on The Discovery Channel and in articles in Archaeology Magazine. The caves are open weekends from 1 to 4 p.m. For tour information and pricing, check out Indian
Trail Caverns Tour.
5. Mary Campbell Cave, 1326 Hillcrest Drive, Cuyahoga Falls
This shale and sandstone formation in Akron is the crown jewel of Gorge Park in the Summit County Metro Parks. The cave once served as the home of Mary Campbell, who was taken captive by Lenape Native Americans during the French and Indian War.
6. Perry's Cave, 979 Catawba Avenue, Put-In-Bay
Another South Bass Island treasure is Perry's Cave, which is hidden 52 feet below the surface. The cave was discovered by its namesake Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, who is locally famous for his role in the Battle of Lake Erie. Today, the site is under a family fun center that offers cave tours, gem mining, and more.
7. Hosak's Cave, 14755 Cadiz Road, Lore City
If you have never visited Salt Fork State Park, you absolutely must. This 60-foot high sandstone overhand is just one of many lovely features that this park offers, and at only two hours from Cleveland, it's a fun weekend getaway destination.
8. The many caves of Whipps Ledges, Hinckley Lake Loop Trail, Hinckley
Whipps Ledges made national news in the 1960's when a young boy became trapped in Wildcat Cave. Today, the cave is sealed, but many smaller, safer caves remain in the sandstone cliffs.
9. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, 405 Truxell Road, Peninsula
Like Whipps Ledges, the sandstone bluffs of this national park are full of caves worthy of exploration. The park also features dozens of trails and a scenic railroad that takes you on a tour of the lush forest.
Ohio's natural history made us a pristine location for the formation of caves, especially around the Lake Erie area. While these caves have, over the years, served as homes and hiding places for humans and wild animals alike, they are much more well-suited today for a spelunking adventure. Have you ever visited an Ohio cave? Tell us about your experience, and share any pictures you might have snapped during your visit!
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