Caves in the United States

Ever feel like going underground to explore a completely different world? I’ve done it a few times, and you might be surprised by how incredible these caves are. You’ll find massive chambers, crystal formations, and stories written in stone—all across the country. If you're anything like me, you'll come out a little awestruck.

Highlights:

• Mammoth Cave in Kentucky completely blew me away—it’s the longest cave system in the world, and you’ll wander through passage after passage of otherworldly rock formations. If you go, take one of the guided tours—I learned so much.
• Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico felt like stepping onto another planet. I stood in huge limestone chambers, stared into underground lakes, and thought, “How is this even real?” You’ll want to bring your camera for this one.
• If you like color and texture, Luray Caverns in Virginia is a must. I took a tour through glowing flowstone and hanging stalactites that looked like frozen waterfalls—it’s one of those places where you just keep looking up in wonder.
• Want something really different? You can ride a boat underground at Lost River Cave in Kentucky. I’ve done it, and you’ll love the quiet glide through dark waters—it’s the only tour of its kind in the U.S.
• Ape Cave in Washington State gave me a whole new respect for volcanic landscapes. I walked through lava tubes formed by Mount St. Helens and couldn’t believe how raw and powerful the space felt. Bring a good flashlight—you’ll need it!