Off The Trails: A Hiker's Guide to the Outdoors

When someone thinks of hiking, they often do not think of a trip to a cave. However, Luray Caverns is definitely a place to check out on your next trip to Virginia. Originally called Luray Cave, this cavern system was well known to Native Americans in the area. However, the official discovery of Luray Caverns dates to August 13th, 1878 by 5 local men. Andrew, William and John Campbell and Benton Stebbins (I was unable to confirm the name of the last discoverer). They first discovered a limestone outcrop and a sinkhole surrounded by cold air. After hours of digging, the men were able to descend into the cave and explore the beauty.

Luray Cavern is rich in underground rivers, reflecting pools, speleothems, stalactites (columns descending from the ceiling) and stalagmites (columns rising from the floor). These formations are commonly found in caves rich in limestone and calcium carbonate. As the calcium carbonate gives up a CO2 molecule, a lime and calcite deposit is formed. Over time as this precipitation occurs, the stalagmites and stalactites begin to dot the underground formation.

The reflecting pools and bodies of water create a unique illusion. At times the water is so still, it is nearly impossible to distinguish between the bottom of the floor and surface of the water. Mirror lake (aka. Dream Lake), spanning 2,500 square feet is the largest water body within the cave system. However, the depth is only measured 18-20 inches. Silver Sea is the name of the second and much smaller body of water.

The geologic formations in Luray Caverns took millions of years to form. The cave began forming 400 million years ago with the oldest formation being 7 million years old. Even today, the formations are slowly changing at a rate of 1 cubic inch every 120 years. Since these formations are so rare and take so long to develop, visitors are not allowed to touch any part of the cave and leashed pets are prohibited. A trip to the 64 acre Luray Caverns will be one of the highlights of any trip to northwestern Virginia!

Parking: 101 Cave Hill Road, Luray, VA, 22835

AllTrails: Not on AllTrails, self-guided local tourist attraction! Walk is about 1.5 miles and takes ~45 minutes to 1 hour to complete.