Underground Adventure at Grand Caverns, Grottoes VA
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, including families and seniors
Overview
Step into Grand Caverns in Grottoes, VA, where historic trails meet extraordinary rock formations. From easy walking tours to adventurous spelunking, discover what makes this underground world a must-visit destination.
Adventure Tips
Dress in layers for stable cave temps
The caverns maintain a steady 55°F year-round, so bring a light jacket even in summer.
Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes
The cavern floors can be wet and uneven; solid footwear ensures safe footing throughout the tour.
Arrive early to avoid crowds
Tours can fill quickly on weekends and during special events; early arrival guarantees your spot.
Bring a flashlight for adventure tours
While walking tours are lit, the Rock Bottom and Gauntlet Adventure Tours require personal light sources for darker passages.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Eastern box turtles
- Various cave-dwelling bats
History
Grand Caverns has been open to the public since the early 1800s and is the oldest continuously operating show cave in the United States.
Conservation
Efforts include limiting visitor group sizes and carefully managing lighting to protect delicate cave ecosystems and mineral formations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Light jacket or fleece
Keeps you warm in the cave’s steady 55°F temperatures.
all specific
Sturdy walking shoes
Ensure safety on slippery or uneven cave floors.
all specific
Flashlight or headlamp
Recommended for adventure tours requiring navigation through darker spaces.
Camera
Capture the striking geological formations and unique lighting inside the caverns.