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Lockport Cave & Underground Boat Ride

Lockport's Downtown Attraction

The Lockport Cave Walking Tours are once again open seasonally for reservations. The staff and management of the Lockport Cave would like to thank everyone for their patience and understanding during this unique and difficult period.

Begin With The Walking Tour

You will explore the historic and newly rehabilitated “Flight of Five” Erie Canal Locks 67-71, constructed in 1838 and Locks 34 & 35 which allow boats to travel “uphill” 60 feet through the Niagara Escarpment ridge of rock. View the Historic Engineering Marvels on the Erie Canal from the 1800’s and examine industrial ruins, allowing a glimpse into America’s industrial revolution and the fortitude it took to build the Erie Canal. Once inside you’ll view stalactites, flow stone, various geological formations in their early stages of development and artifacts left behind by the workmen who built the tunnel and factories.

Let History Surround You

Walk through a 2100 foot water power tunnel blasted out of solid rock. The Hydraulic Tunnel provided water power to several industries. The tunnel was the invention of Birdsill Holly, a mechanical genius, whose inventions might never have been realized without the water power provided by this tunnel. Holly’s inventions include the life-saving fire hydrant, central steam heat and the rotary pump. During his lifetime, Holly held over 150 patents.

This was an awesome tour, the kids and I really loved it. I never knew it existed. It’s worth the trip! A real must see when visiting Lockport, NY!!!

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SIGNATURE ROCK DISCOVERY TOUR

ADVENTURE TOUR

LANTERN TOUR

Howe Caverns Spelunking Tour

Signature rock discovery tour.

Finally, A Century Old Question Will Be Answered:

What’s behind those dam doors.

Since 1900, the 1,200 foot section of the Signature Rock Discovery Tour has been closed to the public leaving Howe Caverns visitors perplexed and wondering what might be behind the “dam doors” at the furthest point of the Traditional Cave Tour. Opened to the public May 3, 2015, the Signature Rock Discovery Tour revealed the mystery behind the doors opening a new world of fascination, sights and memories for adventurous visitors.

The Signature Rock Discovery Tour is a 2.5 hour adventure, with visitors donning boots and helmets as they journey through the halls, tunnels and walkways of the original cavern discovery. Sights, lighting and sounds are dramatically different than what guests experience on the Traditional Tour.

Signature Rock tours will only be offered at 12pm, noon, 1 tour per day. (Reservations Required)

Highlights of The New Tour Include:

The Dam: Installed in the early 1900’s by Helderberg Cement Co. after 900 ft. of the cave was destroyed by mining for limestone.

The Old Boat: The remains of Lester Howe’s boat that he used for transporting visitors across the Lake of Venus.

The Music Hall: The sound was said to echo better in this area than any other part of the cave system.

The Fan: The Fan used to circulate air, provide air conditioning to the lodge (originally Howe’s idea), and to prevent fumes caused by blasting at the quarry from entering the cave.

The Pipeline: The pipeline is believed to have been installed by Howe himself. These were part of the efforts to improve the cave and increase business after the Civil War. One pipeline provided running water for the Cave House and the other provided the cave with gas lighting.

Congress Hall: Named for its size and resonating qualities.

Gypsum: Sparkling deposits that occur when limestone absorbs water. In the 1800s, gypsum was mined out of many caves for the production of gunpowder.

Franklin Avenue: This is a long tall room with a seemingly bottomless pit on the left and the sound of rushing water echoing from below.

Signature Rock: This massive flowstone formation, including hundreds of initials and notable signatures dates back to 1843– and is only revealed to those who visit*.

This tour is available May 1st through October 31st only.Guests must be at least 14 years old to participate.

Please plan accordingly and book early as space is limited!

Traditional Cave Tours

Whether you live in New York, want to take a day trip, or are looking for a fun affordable overnight stay, Howe Caverns is one of the most exciting NYS natural attractions. On your journey you will wind through limestone corridors, pass through cavernous galleries, walk under massive boulders, and take a serene boat ride on a subterranean riverbed carved over countless millennia. The cave is 52°F (11°C) so a jacket or sweatshirt and closed-toed comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Flip flops are NOT permitted in the cave. The cave tour consists of a 1.25 mile walk with a 0.25 mile boat ride. There are 139 stairs throughout the tour.

Get ready to experience the most immersive escape rooms in the Capital Region. 

“The Cave” is the first of three high-tech escape rooms to open at Howe Caverns. Do you think YOU know HOWE TO ESCAPE!?

The Ultra-Max penitentiary known as “The Cave” houses the most notorious criminal geniuses in the country. Built 15 stories underground, The Cave has the latest in cutting-edge escape deterrent technology deployed in the facility. Many infamous individuals have spent the waning years of their lives behind its triple-reinforced cell walls and state-of-the-art security systems. This distinguished clientele has resulted in multiple escape attempts, but none have been successful… until now! A motley crew of the criminal elite, led by maniacal mastermind, Stu “The Flu” Galopso, have done the impossible and breached the confines of their containment sector. Society’s most dangerous and unpredictable fugitives are now at large, and only YOU can stop them!

Escape Room By Reservation Only

All ticket sales are nonrefundable, non-transferable, and may not be  exchanged.

(518) 296-8900

History & science.

13 Most Awe-Inspiring and Best Caves in New York

Ready to get down and dirty inside some of the best caves in New York? If so then this list is 110% for you! Because a lot of this state’s greatest natural treasures lie just beneath the surface.

They quietly sit there, waiting to be discovered by intrepid explorers such as yourself. So, embrace the fine art of spelunking (aka caving) and explore the labyrinth of awe-inspiring caverns, underground lakes, long-forgotten fossils, and subterranean waterfalls that New York is known for.

Yes, it will be dirty. Yes, it will be wet and cold. And yes, you’ll probably run into creepy-crawly things like bugs and bats. But, if you’re a true adrenaline junkie then these caves are not to be missed during your next trip to New York .

Just be sure to avoid abject misery by wearing moisture-wicking clothes and by having a headlamp/flashlight handy before you explore many of these epic caves.

Pro Tip: Do NOT shine your light directly at any bats since this might wake them up and disrupt their natural sleep pattern.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

1. Howe Caverns

Howe Caverns is definitely the most well-known cave in New York. In fact, it’s actually the second most-visited natural attraction in all of New York state – only surpassed in visitation by the ever-beautiful Niagara Falls.

Opened to the public in 1929, Howe Caverns lies fifteen stories beneath the surface! And you can explore this underground wonder through a 90-minute cave tour. You’ll even get to enjoy a cool subterranean boat ride as part of the experience.

And if a 90-minute excursion just isn’t enough time for you to enjoy Howe Caverns and one of the best caves in New York, then there are plenty of other activities here too.

You can take a signature rock discovery tour, which includes a guided visit to lesser-known parts of the cave. As an alternative, you can take the adventure tour instead, complete with two hours of spelunking!

There is also the lantern tour, the family flashlight tour, and even a private tour, so there are loads of options for you to choose from.

Last but certainly not least, if you happen to be visiting around a holiday, the Howe Caverns may have a themed excursion for you. For example, around Halloween, there’s the haunted cave tour that’s filled with mysterious music, gruesome costumes, and nerve-wracking stories!

Can you say creepy? After all, can you think of a spookier place to celebrate the scariest holiday of the year?

2. Secret Caverns

Believe it or not, Secret Caverns is located right next door to Howe Caverns. So, as you can probably already guess, that means it’s not much of a secret anymore. But, that doesn’t mean you should miss out!

Plus, Secret Caverns has quite a funny discovery story. See, in 1928, two cows actually fell into a hole, and unearthed Secret Caverns! After that, a local engineer decided to see what else was down there, and the story of these fantastic New York caves began.

Despite the fact that the Howe Caverns and the Secret Caverns are right next to each other, they are two completely separate cave systems. They don’t ever connect, which means both are some of the best caves in New York and worth visiting.

However, to explore Secret Caverns, you’ll need to book a tour. Then, you’ll get to visit an underground wonder that’s nearly 150 feet below the surface!

You’ll even get to touch the cave walls and mineral formations – something that you can’t do in many of the best caves in New York, especially while on a guided tour.

All of that said, the main highlight of the Secret Caverns is the gorgeous 100-foot underground waterfall! As one of only a dozen or so easily accessible subterranean waterfalls in the world, it’s certainly a cool sight to see.

3. Lockport Caves

The Lockport Caves are actually a pair of man-made caves that are situated about 30 minutes away from Niagara Falls .

See, these caves were originally built between 1858 and 1900 as a hydraulic water system – a system that successfully transferred water from Lake Erie to local businesses in Lockport, New York.

As can be expected from any caves built as part of a water system, the Lockport Caves are known for their subterranean boat rides. So, you’ll be able to sail along this calming, yet eerie waterway and take in the majestic limestone walls – all while sitting a cool 40 feet below the surface!

In addition to a boat ride, tours also include a walking portion that showcases dangling stalactites, sharp stalagmites, and even some artifacts from the construction workers who created these caves over a century ago!

Also, like Howe Caverns, the Lockport Caves offer visitors a variety of holiday-themed tours to choose from.

For example, each October, you can book a haunted cave lantern walking tour that is brimming over with spooky vibes. It’s especially fitting considering the fact that these caves were once featured on an episode of Ghost Hunters.

Who knows? Maybe a ghost will pay you a visit during your Lockport Caves tour.

4. Dover Plains Stone church

Grab your hiking shoes because you are going to need them when visiting the Dover Plains Stone church. Be forewarned. The trail can get slippery but it is worth the effort. 

Carved out by the brook, the entrance way of the cave is triangular and it resembles the steeple of a church. That is where it got its name. Full disclosure! This is not a real church. 

Getting to it is easy. You will find the trail just off Route 22. The whole path is lined with maple trees which makes it a really pretty trail. Definitely one of my favorites. The church is also interesting. A fissure in the roof allows sunlight to filter in, illuminating the cave walls. It gives it a very otherworldly feeling.

Aside from a large monolith in the cave, there is also a waterfall. You won’t see it clearly from the outside though it cascades over 30 feet. If you listen you’ll hear it. 

The Dover Plains Stone church is one of the most popular caves in New York and since it is an easy destination to reach, expect to see tourists around. I didn’t find the trail overtly crowded but then again, I may have been lucky.

5. Natural Stone Bridges and Caves

Situated in the Adirondack Mountains, just about a half-hour away from Lake George , are the Natural Stone Bridge and Caves.

They are easily some of the best caves in New York. Plus, before you reach the Natural Stone Caves, you’ll see the Natural Stone Bridge. It’s basically a natural marble arch that is ridiculously amazing.

Because for hundreds – if not thousands – of years, this arch has managed to seemingly defy gravity.

So, once you take an absurd number of pictures of the Natural Stone Bridge, you can continue onto the Natural Stone Caves.

And as the largest marble cave entrance in the eastern U.S., this is definitely a special attraction. It’s actually still slowly but surely being carved out by Trout Brook, so it’s getting slightly bigger every day!

You also have a few different options when it comes to exploring the Natural Stone Bridge and Caves. First, you can take a self-guided tour of the premises. But if you’d prefer to have a guide with you, you can book one of the guided tours, including the summer adventure tour or the winter weekend tour.

6. Clarksville Cave

Located in the town of the same name, the Clarksville Cave is perfect for hardcore adventurers. After all, with a length of 4,800 feet and three different entrances, there’s definitely a lot of ground to cover.

So, as you make your way through the passages, you’ll find yourself crawling and squeezing in between incredibly small spaces.

Therefore, keep an eye out for stalactites, stalagmites, and various other incredible cave features. It’s also important to note that this cave is very much NOT for people who are claustrophobic. Therefore, do keep that in mind before visiting.

Eventually, these tight and narrow passageways open up into spaces with historic petroglyphs. Other areas open up into beautiful turquoise lakes.

As a matter of fact, experienced divers can actually scuba dive in these subterranean lakes. Doesn’t that sound like an amazing, truly unique experience?

It’s also important to note that Clarksville Cave enforces strict safety regulations. Therefore, every visitor must travel in at least a group of three and wear a helmet, knee pads, and have three different sources of light.

7. Cave of the Winds

Niagara falls is on almost everyone’s bucket list. But did you know that there is a gorgeous cave that you can explore just near the falls? Well, near the falls is an understatement. The Cave of winds is located behind the Bridal falls.

In fact, it was originally named after the Greek God of wind aka Aeolus, this cave is quite a popular attraction. Don’t worry about hiking and the likes. The cave is easy to visitr. An elevator will take you down to the cave level and there are a series of platforms that allow you to view the cave. The decks are removed however in winter.

Visiting the caves as part of a tour can take about 4-5 hours so come prepared. The tours are well worth it because it is a very immersive experience. Usually you would be provided with a raincoat by the tour company. I would suggest wearing appropriate footwear though since the area is really wet and you don’t want to go back with soaking socks.

Note that some tours also include a visit to the Canadian side of the falls. You would need to carry your passport along with you but make sure that it is well protected.

8. Ella Armstrong Cave

The Ella Armstrong Cave is one of the most difficult caves in New York to explore. But before I get into the ins and outs of exploring this natural wonder, let’s talk about its fantastic history.

Ella Armstrong was a famous cave explorer in the 1800s. As you can imagine, there weren’t many female cave explorers at that point in time. But, Ella didn’t let that stop her.

And her efforts paid off in 1879 when Ella discovered the entrance to what is now known as the Ella Armstrong Cave. She then carved her name into the cave, so that everyone would know of her amazing discovery.

Today, you can retrace this famous explorer’s footsteps by descending into the cave’s entrance via a 23-foot drop. And once you reach the base of the entrance, you’ll be able to see Ella’s now 150-year-old inscription here! From there, you’ll have loads of cavernous space to explore!

Also, it’s important to note that the Ella Armstrong Cave does close on occasion to protect hibernating bats that sometimes make their home inside one of the best caves in New York.

9. Knox Cave

Not far from Ella Armstrong Cave is Knox Cave. Therefore, you could easily visit two of the best caves in New York in a single day.

Plus, Knox Cave is actually a set of two different caves that are known as Knox and Crossbones Cave. It’s also important to note that neither of these caves is suitable for beginners.

First, though, let’s talk about Knox Cave. It was first discovered in 1787 and is one of the oldest known caves in New York. It’s also an ideal place for intermediate-level spelunkers to improve their caving skills.

Then, there’s Crossbones Cave. As the name implies, this cave certainly isn’t for the faint of heart. In fact, it’s so difficult to access that Crossbones Cave wasn’t discovered until the early 2000s. As a result, very few visitors have had the pleasure of experiencing this hidden gem.

This cave is also for advanced spelunkers only. So, you’ll need advanced vertical training to even get permission to access Crossbones Cave.

And, like nearby Ella Armstrong Cave, Knox Cave sometimes closes to protect the bats that live there – something that usually happens between May and October.

10. Ellenville Fault Ice Caves at Sam’s Point Preserve

The Ellenville Fault Ice Caves at Sam’s Point Preserve are arguably some of the coolest caves in New York.

Because as the name implies, these caves don’t have walls of stone like the others on this list. Rather, they are filled with ice!

And if that weren’t enough to convince you to make the trip, the Ellenville Fault Ice Caves are situated in the largest known exposed fault system in the entire country!

To understand how cool these New York Caves really are though, you need a bit of a science lesson.

Now, as I mentioned earlier, the Ellenville Fault Ice Caves are located on the Ellenville Fault, which is the largest fault of its kind in the U.S.

These faults – or fractures in the surface of the earth due to major rock movement – then create deep crevices that remain unexposed to the heat of the sun.

As a result, the Ellenville Fault Ice Caves retain their frozen temperatures all year long. In other words, even if you decide to visit during the summer, you’ll still be able to see this one-of-a-kind cave in New York.

Since these caves remain frozen throughout the year, they have a very unique – and very cold – microclimate.

This means that there’s a unique set of plants that live inside these caves and that can’t be found anywhere else in the area, including dwarf pitch pines, hemlocks, mountain ashes, and black spruces – species that are typically only found in frigid alpine regions.

Pretty cool, right? Now, to reach this unique cave system yourself, you’ll have to hike four miles round-trip to the Sam’s Point Overlook and to the Ice Cave Trail.

For safety purposes though, this is one of the best hikes in the Catskills that closes between late fall and early spring (the Ice Trail, not the entire hike to Sam’s Point).

11. Caves of Sellecks Karst Preserve

The series of four caves at Sellecks Karst Preserve in Carlisle, New York all have something different to offer.

First, there’s Selleck’s Cave, which is the largest of the four. This cave has over 1,000 feet of subterranean paths for you to explore. But, in order for you to reach this subterranean area, you’ll need to tackle a 20-foot drop first.

Then there’s Levys Cave, which is known for a small stream that flows through it. Next, there’s Cave 575 which is arguably the coolest one. It is filled with dozens of fossils that are from hundreds of years ago!

And last but certainly not least, there’s the Natural Bridge Cave (which is different from the Natural Stone Bridge and Caves mentioned above).

This cave is more of a natural limestone arch than a cave, but it’s certainly a cool sight to see. So, between all four of the best caves in New York mentioned above, you can easily spend hours at Selleck’s Karst Preserve.

Oh, and while you’re here, be sure to keep an eye out for the hidden underground waterfall!

12. Onesquethaw Cave

If you’re looking for one of the most under-the-radar caves in New York, you’ll definitely want to check out Onesquethaw Cave.

And part of the reason why Onesquethaw Cave is under-visited is that it’s so hard to find! S

See, it’s situated in the little town of Voorheesville, New York and you’ll probably need the help of a local or a spelunking aficionado to give you more specific directions.

But, if you do happen to make it to Onesquethaw Cave, congratulations! You’ve already accomplished something that most people haven’t been able to do.

As a reward, you can explore a one-mile-long mapped passageway – an area so long that it’s believed to be the second-longest cave in the county. That’s also a lot of subterranean ground for you to cover here too!

However, after significant rainfall, Onesquethaw Cave may flood. Consequently, the cave will be closed during heavy rain and when there are predictions of heavy rain.

13. Caves at Bentleys Cave Preserve

Situated on a five-acre property in the small town of Berlin, New York, Bentley’s Cave Preserve is home to a pair of lovely caves.

But the small size of this property hides the enormous cave system down below. As a matter of fact, given the unassuming nature of these caves, they were actually used as an illegal gambling hideout once upon a time.

Now, the larger of the two caves at Bentley’s Cave Preserve is Bentley’s Cavern. This cave boasts over 1,000 feet of subterranean tunnels for you to explore, both by walking and crawling. There’s even a quiet stream flowing through the cave, making it slightly larger every day.

However, once you get through the tight, wet crawl section of Bentley’s Cavern, the walls open up to reveal a large cavern with loads of cool chambers.

From here, you can experience the second cave, known as the Dry Valley Cave. This smaller cave wasn’t discovered until 1991 and is a fantastic place that is just waiting to be explored.

Caves In New York FAQ

Does new york have caves.

Not only does New York have caves, some of them are pretty spectacular. Secret Cavern for example even has an underground waterfall. How cool is that? Howe Caverns on the other hand is a limestone cave network that wows everyone who visits!

What Is The Biggest Cave In New York?

Howe Caverns is the biggest cave in New York. Would you believe that it is also the second most visited natural attraction in the state? I’m not kidding! Every year about 200,000 people visit these caves to gaze at this gorgeous natural wonder.

What Is The Deepest Cave In New York?

Here again, Howe caverns tops the list as the deepest cave in New York. 

Are There Catacombs In New York?

Yes! New York has its own catacombs. Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral catacombs is home to the mortal remains of nine Archbishops of New York. It is also the resting place for other notable Catholics from the area.

What Is The Largest Cave In the USA?

While the Howe Caverns is large, it isn’t the largest cave system in the USA. This title is held by Mammoth cave in Kentucky. The cave system expands out over 400 miles!

Map of the Best Caves in New York

Additional New York Travel Resources You’ll Love

• Best Hikes in the Adirondacks
• Best Winter Hikes in New York
• Best Waterfalls Near Syracuse New York
• Best Hikes in New York State
• Best Hot Springs in New York
• Best Hamptons Beaches
• Best Waterfalls in New York

There you have it! That just about wraps up this epic guide to all. of the best caves in New York!

Tell me, did your favorite caves in new york make the list if not then let me know in the comments below., and if you found this post useful, be sure to join our email list before pinning this post now so that you can read it again later.

For Additional Information Please Call 518.296.8558

• Links/Affiliations

SECRET CAVERNS is CLOSED for the 2023 SEASON

Shhhh. tour guides are now hibernatiing..

• $20 Adults, $10 Kids (6-12), 5 and under FREE
• CA$H ONLY, No ATM on site, please plan accordingly
• Tours start at the top of the hour, every hour (while open)
• NO RESERVATIONS REQUIRED for general tours
• All bags are beautiful and welcome
• STURDY FOOTWEAR is ADVISED
• There are 103 stairs that are used to enter and exit Secret Caverns
• Walkways are scientifically illuminated by hundreds of electric lightbulbs
• Strollers not permitted
• 50 degree year round temperature, jackets recommended

Secret Caverns is "Cool," Naturally

The mummified remains of the first tour guide (pictured above) and many other interesting things are on display at the Secret Caverns lodge and may be viewed before or after (not during) the guided tour

Read what others are saying

• "Awesome, unspoiled, and beautiful...an unforgettable outing not to be missed...sure to delight the youngsters." -Excerpt from Kaatskill Life
• "It retains much of its wild character while still being quite accessible...a good place to bring a class" -Dr. William M. Kelly, NYS Geological Survey and Curator of Geology, NYS Museum
• "Wonderfully funny and informative guide, and his lack of body odor was greatly appreciated." -Andrew Hildreth, NY
• "This place rules, We drove from California just to see this." -Tyson Mrosek, Pro Mtn Bike Downhill Racer.

But don't take their word for it, see for yourself why Secret Caverns is off the beaten path in more ways than one.

For more Information, give us a call at (518) 296-8558 or email us at [email protected]

• The Batsquatch of Secret Caverns is real but we are not supposed to talk about it, so don't ask.

General Information

Nestled in the hallowed halls of hollow earth, Secret Caverns is a small commercial cavern located in upstate New York. Founded by local civil engineer Roger Mallery, the caverns have hosted Americas roadside travellers and seekers of subterranean knowledge and the batsquatch since its discovery by intrepid bovine explorers in 1928.

• Geology of the Caverns

Visitors to the cave can expect a 45 minute to 1 hour guided walk through an unsullied but accessible prehistoric passageway encrusted by the patient hand of time. Mother Natures handiwork can be easily viewed in the form of stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone. Because visitors enter the cavern by use of the petrified escalator (the 103 stairs), the various layers of limestone deposited faithfully by the prehistoric ocean, which covered North America during the Silurian-DEVOnian eras, one can easily view Americas "first" settlers in the form of brachiopods, corals, and crinoids.

The tour culminates when one reaches the world famous 100 ft underground waterfall. Truly a wonder of nature, this rare sight is unmatched among showcaves.

The caverns maintain a year round temperature of 50 degrees F (~10 degrees C). As a result, we recommend a light jacket or sweater and comfortable walking shoes. Cameras, pictures, and touching of the formations and ghosts is allowed, as is not the case with most other showcaves in the US.

"Rock Bottom" Group Rates!

Secret Caverns offers fantastic group rates to all! Take advantage of them before we come to our senses! Call the caverns lodge for quotes!

Click the coupon above, print it out and bring it with you on your next visit to receive $2 off each adult ticket, or since it is 2023 just show us the coupon on your phone screen and save yourself the hassle of finding a way to print it on the road, either way works for us.

©Copyright 2013 • All Rights Reserved • Secret Caverns • 671 Caverns Road Howes Cave New York 12092 • 518.296.8558

7 Incredible Caves in New York to Explore

The Big Apple is a one-of-a-kind city with a ton of attractions, a wide variety of food choices, and a culturally-diverse people, but not many tourists go here to visit caves in New York…

…and I think more people should while we still have access to these geological structures.

7 Caves in New York You Should Visit at least Once in Your Life

From traditional caves to jungle-rock gardens and other awesome underground worlds, these 7 caves in New York are some of my favorites.

I recommend you visit a couple of them (that are skill-appropriate of course) at least once in your life.

1. Lockport Cave & Underground Boat Ride

• Location : 5 Gooding Street, Lockport NY
• Phone : 716-438-0174
• Tour info : 75-minute guided walk tour | $7.35 to $27.55 + tax per person (kids enter at discounted rates)
• Hours : Open daily for tours 10:00 am to 4pm

If you’re new to caving, Lockport Cave is a beginner-friendly cave that gives a huge payoff.

Constructed in the 1800s, Lockport Cave is the country’s longest underground boat tour .

The adventure begins on a boat ride starting at the Niagara Escarpment through the Erie Canal. Here you’ll be able to see artifacts left behind by miners who worked these caves over a century ago.

The best part of this tour is the quiet boat ride, as it travels into the manmade, 2100-foot tunnel and cave with just a lantern light leading the way. Visitors will be very close to flowstones, stalagmites and other geological features that could wow anyone regardless of age.

Note that the tour includes approximately 70 stairs and 3 landings, so it cannot accommodate wheelchairs and strollers. You also can’t choose between a walking tour and boat ride – part of the experience includes the eeriness of the boat ride and the challenge of walking underground.

Lockport Caves also offer special tours during the Halloween season. Join either their Ghost Hunter or Haunted Cave Lantern tours with young kids for a new (and memorable) experience.

2. Clarksville Cave

• Location : New Scotland, NY 12186
• Tour info : self-guided walk tour | free to enter
• Hours : Open daily 7AM to 11PM, except from October 1st through April 30th (when bats hibernate in the cave)

If you’re new to caving, Clarksville cave in Voorheesville New York is one of the few caverns in NY that cater to beginner to expert caving (thanks to multiple routes that fit all skill levels). It is, however, not for anyone who are claustrophobic .

The entire Clarksville cave is a massive 4,800 feet with three different entrances. Before you can get into the main cave, there would be crawling and sliding into small spaces or wading through knee-deep or waist-deep water.

As you get deeper into the horizontal cave, you’ll find stalactites, stalagmites and flowstones permanently fixed to the walls. Other deposits of coral fossils from 490 million years ago had been found inside Clarksville cave.

The tight passages do give gorgeous payoffs . Depending on where you began your path or which route you took, you’ll be led to the space with petroglyphs or small lakes .

If you’re a pro diver (and you have your gear with you), you can even scuba-dive in these turquoise lakes.

Everyone visiting Clarksville cave is required to follow NSS rules , which says you can’t go into the cave alone. You need to have at least 2 people with you. Every visitor must also wear their own helmet with a flashlight mounted on top, along with a handheld flashlight and knee pads.

3. Cooper’s Cave

• Location : 46 Saratoga Ave, South Glens Falls, NY 12803
• Phone : 518-761-3864 or 518-793-1455
• Tour info : Group tours need reservation | free admission
• Hours : Open daily from 8am-8pm, May 1 through October 31

Cooper’s Cave , which was carved out by the mighty Hudson River, is located in Glens Falls, New York.

This cave was the inspiration of the “dark and silent” caves featured on the great American novel, “ The Last of the Mohicans ” by author James Fenimore Cooper.

Above the cave is the Cooper’s Cave Bridge , which connects the Village of South Glens Falls and the City of Glens Falls.

There is a wheelchair-accessible overlook situated right next to the bridge, where visitors which gives a stunning front-seat viewing of the falls.

This stop is part of New York State’s historic Independent Trail . The cave entrance is located within Cooper’s Cave Park (by the southern end of the Glens Falls Feeder Canal Trail). The good news is there are signs that mark the entrance.

Although the cave is relatively small (about 20 feet wide and 60 feet long), you can still see unique stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone deposits at Cooper’s Cave . These formations have been formed over million of years ago.

If you’re just stopping by and have time to spare, visit the nearby Cooper’s Cave Ale Co and order the best craft beer or gourmet sodas.

4. Ella Armstrong Cave

• Location : Gallupville, NY
• Tour info : advanced caving | free admission | not recommended for summer camps, church groups, scouts, and school groups
• Hours : Open daily for tours until 4pm, Closed October 1st through April 30th (during bat hibernation season)

Located near the more popular caves, Knox and Crossbones Caves, Ella Armstrong Cave is a short vertical cave that isn’t for the faint of heart.

The cave is named after a 19th century woman who explored the cave and left her inscription at the drop’s base. The “graffiti” remains to this day even if she left this behind nearly 200 years ago.

You can’t just walk to get into the Ella Armstrong Cave . You’ll need special climbing equipment for the straight vertical drop safely to the base of the cave.

Like most self-guided caves in New York, you need to have at least 3 people in the group and be completely equipped with safety helmets, flashlights and other basic caving equipment.

5. Panama Rocks

• Location : 11 Rock Hill Rd, Panama, NY 14767
• Phone : (716) 703-0021
• Tour info : private park (not a state park) | $7 to $10 (kids 5 years old and below enter free)
• Hours : Open daily 10 am to 5pm during early May to October (closes for the winter)

The Panama Rocks is home to a handful of privately-owned caves in New York. The entire 15-acre area is full of deep crevices, tight passageways, massive rock formations, and small caves that dates back to over 350 million years.

Established in 1885, Panama Rocks has been around even before the state park system was even born. There are hiking, treasure hunting for kids, ax-throwing, picnics, and other geology activities for kids 11 and above.

The jungle-like charm of Panama Rocks isn’t just for kids. Even adults would find the place’s history, geology, and environment pretty educational and enchanting.

This is a laidback cave option for young kids and adults without any caving experience. Kids under 18 years old have to be accompanied by an adult. Pets are also not allowed.

6. Howe Caverns

• Location : 255 Discovery Dr, Howes Cave, NY 12092
• Phone : (518) 296-8900
• Tour info : Traditional 90-minute tours cost $15 to $25 per person (kids 4 and under enter free) | Special tours available
• Hours : Open daily for tours 10:00 am to 2pm, but closed on Mondays and Tuesdays

Howe Caverns is the most famous cavern in New York state. After Niagara Falls, this cave is the second most-visited natural attraction in the state.

If you’re looking for a cave that your family can enjoy, even without any caving experience, Howe Caverns can be a one-of-a-kind experience for you.

It’s been around since 1929. To reach the actual cave, you’d have to go down fifteen stories down (about 140 stairs), 1.23-mile walk, and the remaining 0.25-mile riding a boat.

Howe Caverns offers the basic 90-minute guided tour where you’ll be able to see a mix of limestone corridors and galleries, dripping stalactites and plenty of cool formations all over the walls. The path’s twists and turns leading you to an underground lake and the cave’s Eastern Terminus, where your heart is bound to skip a beat as you pass by total darkness.

If this isn’t enough, Howe Caverns also has other special tours, such as the guided, 2-hour signature rock discovery tour, the family flashlight tour, and lantern tour, among others. The place also has tours dedicated to particular holidays, such as Halloween (haunted tours) and Christmas (festive tours).

You have the option of visiting as a day-tour guest, or staying at the Howe Caverns Hotel .

7. Secret Caves

• Location : 671 Caverns Rd, Howes Cave, NY
• Phone : 518.296.8558
• Tour info : 1-hour guided walk tour | $10 to $18 (kids 6 and under enter free)
• Hours : Open weekends, from 11:00 am to 3pm every April to October

If you stayed or visited Howe Caverns and have time to spare for another natural experience, head down the road to Secret Caverns that feature a breathtaking underground waterfall.

Secret Caverns is situated 100 feet below the surface, but unlike other New York caves, this one has a waterfall to greet you after traveling down 100+ steps.

The one-hour guided tour is a half-mile long and leads you to gorgeous views of stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone that keep the temperature underground 0 degrees year-round.

The best part of this place is that guests are allowed to touch the rock formations (which is often the opposite for other caves). Photography and cameras with flash is also allowed.

Done with Caves in New York. Where to go Caving Next?

Enjoyed your trip to New York’s best caves? If you’re planning your next spelunking adventure, here are several guides to help you decide your next destination:

• Caves in Maryland
• Tennessee Caves
• Ohio Caves (tours and hikes)
• Caves in Pennsylvania
• Arkansas caves
• Cool caves in Washington

Have you ever seen jaw-dropping ice caves before? Check out these four ice caves in Colorado .

If you’re extending your stay in New York, make sure to read my guide about 10 underrated things to do in New York .

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Take a Trip to the Natural Stone Bridge and Caves of New York

Have you ever wanted to explore a unique cave, bask in the beauty of mother nature, or trek to an amazing natural structure? Look no further! The Natural Stone Bridge and Cave in Pottersville, New York provides all of this, and more.

Whether you love hiking or sitting down and enjoying a lovely scenic view, this park will not disappoint. There are several exciting activities and tours available when the weather permits, but we recommend a visit during the winter. Read on and you will see what brings cavers to this location all year.

About Natural Stone Bridge and Caves

The Natural Stone Bridge and Caves Park in Pottersville is not only one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Adirondacks but also a geological wonder.

The massive marble bridge, the largest of its kind, is an outstanding example that highlights how ancient caves bring beauty and history to an area.

The family-owned and operated park features several waterfalls, caves, hiking trails, and many activities for children. One activity is disc golf, a game in which players try to throw discs into metal baskets. There’s also gemstone mining, museum adventure tours, and even dinosaur fossils! For parents or couples, there is a picnic pavilion and space for weddings available.

The self-guided tour is included in the admission price, but guests can opt for an Adventure Tour. These tours are facilitated by expert guides and have rigorous physical activity, reservations are required for the activities.

The Noisy Cave tour from the Natural Stone Bridge and Caves takes visitors through a shallow cave where Trout Brook pours in from several openings. The rush of water is likely to have played a role in naming the area.

If you’re lucky, you will see participants on an Adventure Tour moving through the waters of a cave. The winter season offers snowshoe tours with 14 miles of trails. It also provides a rental space where you can bring your equipment and use it for the day.

The largest and most abundant type of rock in the caves is marble, which is easier to erode than granite. Other rocks along the trail include quartzite and amphibolite, which were formed into their present states after undergoing tremendous heat and pressure.

Natural Stone Bridge and Caves Tours

Summer self-guided cave trail.

The trail in the Natural Stone Bridge and Caves crosses Trout Brook and the old Sawmill Site Waterfalls, which a massive Stone Bridge surrounds. The trail also features significant potholes, plus several surface caves and grottos, perfect for exploration! Explore the aboveground self-guided nature trail to view a spectacular display of ancient Adirondack geology.

The trail is a ¾-mile hike with over 500 irregular steps. Most groups take 45-60 minutes, but it’s up to you! If you feel like resting on one of the beautiful benches along the way, go for it.

The trail is as natural as possible, though you will encounter some bridges, boardwalks, and other manmade structures to limit erosion and maintain safety. You can wear sturdy walking or hiking shoes for the best experience!

Remember, you’re mostly above ground in this forest, so dress for whatever weather comes your way!

Stone Bridge Adventure Tours

This is a one-of-a-kind guided Adventure Tour that brings hardy individuals on a 3-4 hour long cave crawl through rock, sand, mud, and water.

Unlike other cave crawling tours, this one takes you into four different caves, each with its own environment and caving technique.

Dealing with the challenges of a cave depends largely on personal preference. If you find yourself uncomfortable in an area, you can opt out and still enjoy your entire tour. The grand finale of a visit to the caves is floating through Garnet Cave, where local “mermaids” used to swim.

Trained guides lead groups from the Natural Stone Bridge and Caves. They prepare you for a rigorous 3-4 hours of walking, kneeling, and crawling as well as some hoisting. The tour’s group size is limited to 4-10 participants aged 13+ and physically capable.

Winter Snowshoe Trails at Stone Bridge

If cold weather is your favorite, you’re in luck! Marvel at the sparkling stone bridge when frozen ice flows along Trout Brook. During the winter, most of the caves are inaccessible because of ice. Bridges that can get washed during the spring floods are removed in advance.

The 14.5 miles of additional trails provide many more opportunities to explore. Snowshoe along the old Sink Hole, Beaver Stump Loop, or Bobcat Ledges, where you might see exciting geology and animal tracks along the way.

You can bring hiking boots and warm clothing; if you don’t have your snowshoes, you can rent them at the site. The site recommends that people arrive by 1 pm, so they will be able to maximize their enjoyment of the tour.

Snowshoe tours are available through early March on Friday, Saturday and Sundays, with self-guided tours from 10:00 AM to 2:30 AM.

Chester Challenge Hikes

The trails at Adirondack Mountain Reserve offer a mountain peak experience for hikers of all kinds: well-marked paths with maps available to novices and seasoned hikers alike. CCTrails has exceptional signage at the summit. It points out nearby peaks while providing clear views across ranges.

Hikes must start before 1 pm and be ended between 4,5, and 6 depending on the season.

Catamount Trail: This 1.8-mile hike has a 678-foot ascent and was one of 5 shooting locations for Ben Stiller’s Showtime miniseries “Escape at Dannemora.”

Green Mountain Trail: This 4.6-mile hike with a 1263′ ascent takes you through some of the most scenic areas in the Adirondacks, including views of many High Peaks!

What to Wear

Boots : Warm Hiking Boots

Clothes: Wear synthetic clothing (that will dry if you sweat during your hike), Dress in layers that are easy to put on or take off.

You will want to of course bring appropriate gear for the snow if you plan to visit in the winter.

Kids & Family Fun At Natural Stone Bridge & Caves

The Caveman Adventure Park will be an excellent place for kids, with its 18-hole “Intro To Disc Golf Challenge” and climbing bouldering walls.

• Climbing Walls
• Gemstone Mining
• Geode Popping
• Jewelry Making

Bring a picnic to the park if you like! There are many tables throughout where you can sit and relax while your kids have fun. The park also sells food, such as sandwiches, hot dogs, and hamburgers.

This is one place where you can come with your friends, co-workers, better half, or entire family. There are no restrictions. The scenic views and the rich history of this place leave both entertained and educated.

Ensure you visit their website to know the requirements and what you need to bring with you. You can see more information when planning your trip here .

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• Destinations

10 Best New York Caves

Last Updated By VI on April 9, 2024 in Things to Do in New York State & Places to Visit

Cave of the Winds, New York

Ellenville fault, new york, howe caverns, new york.

• Complete List & Map

The Cave of the Winds used to be a cave in the rock behind Bridal Veil Falls at the Niagara Falls. The cave, 130 feet high, 100 feet wide, and 30 feet deep, was closed after a massive rock fall. A visit to the cave had been a popular tourist attraction since 1841. After the closure, it continued from 1924 in a different form, bringing visitors to the spot close to where the cave existed, as close to the waterfalls as anyone can get. The visitors come via an elevator from the area roughly between the American and Canadian Falls, descending down to the Niagara River level at the very base of the American Falls. They walk along a series of wooden decks and platforms until they reach the base of the Bridal Veil Falls, close to where the original Cave of the Wind was. It is quite an experience with the water falling all around them, ending under the decking, and is not for the faint of heart. Niagara Falls, NY 14303, USA, Tel. +1 716-278-1796

The Ellenville Fault Ice Caves are located in the 4,600-acre Sam's Point Preserve on the 2,289-foot-high Shawangunk Ridge in New York. It is the largest open fault in the States, with a series of ice caves that were formed from fault’s falling debris. The caves are up to 100 feet deep fissures in the quartz rock, with a very cold microclimate that supports several northern species such as black spruce, mountain ash, hemlock, and dwarf pitch pine. There are several hiking trails leading to Sam’s Point and the ice caves. The trail, steep in places, leads down the caves, winding around large boulders, with ice trapped in places. There are bridges, wooden steps, and ladders in parts of the caves. The trail continues up stone steps, under low exposed rock outcroppings, and by high, scenic cliffs before coming back to the surface. Cragsmoor, NY 12420, USA, Tel. +1 201-512-9348

Howe Caverns, located in the town of Howes Cave, lie 156 feet underground and are composed of two types of limestone deposited hundreds of millions of years ago. The cavern contains a lake named the Lake of Venus and features many speleothems. The 2-hour Signature Rock Discovery Tour mimics real cave exploration. The guides take visitors to a section of the cave not previously open to the public. There is no electricity and no light. It is very cold and muddy. Another expanded tour passes by the remains of the original tourist boat, points out the signatures written on the rock by the early explorers over 100 years ago, and enters a cave named Music Hall, which has great acoustics. The tour ends at the Lake of Mystery, where the visitors have to crawl through a low water-logged passage. The caverns have a cave with a heart-like formation that is a popular spot to hold weddings. 255 Discovery Dr, Howes Cave, NY 12092, USA, Tel. +1 518-296-8900

New York Caves: Lockport Cave

Lockport Cave is a man-made hydraulic raceway built between 1858 and 1900 to supply water from the Erie Canal to local businesses. It is located in Lockport, New York, on the Erie Canal, not far from Niagara Falls. The cave is the site of the popular tourist attraction, the Lockport Cave and Underground Boat Ride. The tour starts with a walk through the water tunnel blasted from the solid rock, passing stalactites, interesting geological formations, and objects left behind by the men who constructed the tunnel in the 1800s. The tour continues with an underground boat ride that takes almost 70 minutes, about 40 feet underground, with very little light, creating a spooky, wet, and muddy atmosphere.   5 Gooding St, Lockport, NY 14094, USA, Tel. +1 716-438-0174

Natural Stone Bridge & Caves, New York

Natural Stone Bridge and Caves is a tourist attraction in the Adirondack mountains in upstate New York, close to Lake George. The pretty, scenic riverside area contains a huge stone bridge or arch and a massive ¾ mile wide marble cave entrance. The cave is located mostly above ground and has natural stone steps and a trail. The cave contains some of the oldest marble in North America in the caves, which were formed during the last ice age. The cave contains interesting marble features such as grottos, portholes, a gorge, and a waterfall. This geological wonder is a popular location for earth science classes. 535 Stone Bridge Rd, Pottersville, NY 12860, USA, Tel. +1 518-494-2283

Tory Cave, New York

The Tory Cave is a small, shallow limestone cave close to the top of the Helderberg Escarpment. It is part of the popular Thacher State Park near Albany, New York. There is a story linked to the cave and its name about Jacob Salsbury, a loyalist, or Tory as they were called, who was a spy and reported on the movement of rebel troops to the British during the American Revolution. He spent some time hiding in the cave, which must have been very uncomfortable because the cave offers very little shelter. It does contain ice stalagmites in the spring, what is rare in the local caves. The cave is off limits to tourists.

Secret Caverns, New York

More caves in the USA

New York Caves: Stone Church

Cart Road, Dover Plains, New York 12522

New York Caves: Coopers Cave

46 Saratoga Avenue, South Glens Falls, New York 12803; Phone: 518-793-1455

• 1. Cave of the Winds, New York
• 2. Ellenville Fault, New York
• 3. Howe Caverns, New York
• 4. New York Caves: Lockport Cave
• 5. Natural Stone Bridge & Caves, New York
• 6. Tory Cave, New York
• 7. Secret Caverns, New York
• 8. New York Caves: Stone Church
• 9. New York Caves: Coopers Cave

People everywhere are strongly attracted by the mysteriousness of the caves, and New York caves are very popular tourist attractions. Some no longer exist, like the Cave of the Winds, while others, like Clarksville Cave, are very difficult to explore. One of the most interesting and the most popular is Howe Caverns, which has a number of tours and is even used for weddings. Some caves, such as Ellenville Fault Ice Caves, are formed by the fallen debris from the surrounding fault. Some caves are manmade, like the Lockport Caves, but are no less fascinating and attractive.

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25 Best Things to Do in Upstate New York

15 Best Things to Do in Hyde Park, New York

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Secret Caverns New York: Family-Friendly Cave In New York State

Discover why a visit to Secret Caverns New York should be on your radar. Explore this incredible show cave and its 100 ft underground waterfall!

Our Journey To Secret Cavern Began In New York City

Table of Contents

We love visiting New York City. Growing up, my family made the 8-hour drive from the outskirts of Toronto to New York City many times throughout the year to visit family. With every visit, we would explore a different park, museum, or neighborhood.

New York City has so much to offer, I don’t think it would be possible to see everything even in a lifetime of visits. I have passed this love for New York to my children.  Their favorite is definitely spending Christmas in New York City. They even like to chime on about which places to eat when in New York City. But on a recent road trip, we discovered Secret Caverns New York and we realized there is much more to discover!

Secret Caverns is just one of a series of incredible caves in New York waiting to be explored. But this often-overlooked secret cave in the town of Howe’s Cave’s, New York is one that shouldn’t be missed. It often gets overshadowed by its more famous cousin, Howe Cavern , but Secret Cavern is an experience all of its own.

Where Is Secret Caverns, New York?

Our long weekend trip to Watkins Glen State Park  really opened up our eyes to the amazing nature that is abundant in New York. So, we have it our mission to discover places that are within just a few hour’s drive from Toronto, Canada.

As we were researching for more waterfalls in the area to visit, we found a secret! Located deep within a cave, was a waterfall, hidden from view, but open to the public for visitation. As we love  visiting caves with kids , off we went on a 5.5 hr road trip from Toronto to Howes Cave, New York .

Make sure to  subscribe  to our YouTube channel see all our latest videos!

The 100 ft waterfall is located within Secret Caverns in Howes Cave, New York. It is the final attraction in this New York show cave. But I am getting ahead of myself! So, let me start from the beginning. The drive from Toronto to Howes Cave was mostly on multi-lane highways.

We chose to take the interstate highway, I-90, which is a toll highway in New York, to speed up the drive. At less than $10 for the toll we felt it was definitely worth the time it saved us. The final 30 or so kilometers were on rolling country roads. The kids enjoyed seeing all the farm animals lazing around.

As we got closer to Cobleskill , the town where Secret Caverns is located, we started seeing the infamous billboard signs promoting Secret Caverns. We had read about the history of the signs at the Secret Caverns website. Each sign is unique and artistically decorated by hand by the guides.

Tour of Secret Caverns

At the time of our visit, Secret Caverns was open from 11 am – 3 pm. Reservations ahead of time were not necessary. Tours were conducted every half an hour; more often if it is busier. They are open year-round and only close when inclement weather causes flooding into the cave.

The entire journey underground is less than 1km (0.5 miles) and takes approximately 1 hour. The tour starts at the lodge where you buy your tickets. According to the story, the caves were discovered when cows accidentally fell into the cavern in 1928.

The “original” entrance is now blocked off. Instead, we descended down 103 steps to the concrete floor. I could immediately feel the temperature difference. It was a warm day out at 29ºC.

But the cave interior was 10°C, as always. As we climbed lower it was easy to see the different layers of exposed limestone. The guide also pointed out some fossils when our group had all reached the bottom.

Interesting Formations in Secret Caverns

We explored the length of the cave in a single file. There were 10 people in our group (including us). I was told that the tour group is normally kept to less than 20 people.

This is great as the cave was a lot narrower than I had anticipated. There were also spots with low-hanging ceilings. Secret Caverns New York is definitely not for the claustrophobic.

Secret Caverns Waterfall

As we neared the waterfall, I was surprised that the sound of the falling water was not more obvious. Except for the tell-tale signs of the mist, I would not have known that a 30 m (100 ft) waterfall was just around the corner.

The tour is not a loop so after getting our fill of the waterfall, we headed back the same way we came in.

Tips for Visiting Secret Caverns New York

• Wear a light jacket. The temperature in the cave is constantly 10°C.
• Wear running shoes or hikers. If it has been raining, many parts of the cave will be wet and slippery so open toed footwear is not recommended.
• There is no need to bring a flashlight or headlamp. Secret Caverns is a show cave which means the cave is lit up.
• Light snacks and drinks are available for purchase at the entrance lodge. However, there are many picnic tables by the parking area so it is possible to eat a boxed lunch comfortably.
• The caves can sometimes be inaccessible due to weather conditions. If unsure, check the Secret Caverns Facebook page which posts updates whenever the caves will be closed to the public.

Show Caves of New York

Secret Caverns was definitely worth the drive from Toronto to Howes Cave, New York. It’s a family-friendly cave tour and our guide went out of her way to make the tour even more entertaining for C and D.

But our tour of New York’s show caves is not over yet. Just 4 km (2 mi) from Secret Caverns was another cave system, Howe Caverns . And while it didn’t have an underground waterfall, the cavern is explored partly by boat! What is your favorite show cave?

You can explore more incredible attractions in New York State on our New York Family Travel Blog .

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Wednesday 7th of June 2017

Picture it: your kids. My kids. race to see which set gets through the caverns first. Just a thought...

Actually, really cool place. It's rare to tour a cavern with a waterfall that's more than a steady trickle, so I'm totally intrigued. Have you guys done Lewis and Clark Caverns in Montana? It's a fav for us. OOoooh, summer 2018....

Kevin Wagar

Thursday 8th of June 2017

Epic! Sign up up!

Cyndi Neshawait

Thursday 25th of May 2017

Growing up in Central New York I have visited Howe Caverns many times. This past month I had family visiting from down south, they wanted to go to Howe Caverns. We enjoyed our tour but will agree that HC is very commercial and corporate, our quite basically read from a script and had no personality. On our way home we chanced upon Secret Caverns. How I had never heard of them before was amazing. We decided to take a detour and a quite pleasant one at that. We LOVED Secret Caverns! It was so much more fun and interactive. We had a group of 9 with children ranging from 6yrs to 15 yrs. Everyone had an awesome time and liked it even more than our earlier tour at HC. As my daughter says "you have to go to Howe Caverns first to really appreciate Secret Caverns". It was a definite win and I have told everyone about it... I guess it's not a secret anymore!

That is a great summary of the two. Howe Caverns is certainly impressive and far more expansive, but the personality of Secret Caverns really makes it stand out as a fun and engaging destination!

Jacqueline Sogunro-Pitan

We just went to both Secret Caverns and Howe's Caverns during Spring Break. I had no idea either of these existed until about 6 months ago. They are both an Amazing Sight to See. Our Favorite parts of Howe's Caverns was the boat ride and The Bridal Altar. Howe's Caverns is much more commercialized and more easily accessible. A hoodie and sneakers or hiking boots would be your best bet. Secret Caverns has a Long set of steep slippery stairs to get in​ and out. I would not recommend bringing small children Especially those that need to be carried. Our trip to the Caverns and Cobleskill was not complete without The Mining Company, Stewart's Shops for their own unique ice cream flavors, and Justine's. If You Love Italian food be sure you bring Your appetite!

Those are great tips. I totally agree that the stairs in Secret Caverns are very steep and I ended up carrying our 3-year-old, although mostly because he was holding up the group :) I wish I had known about the Ice Cream shop, that would have been a great stop!

Tuesday 16th of May 2017

WHAT?! I had NO IDEA these secret caverns existed! They're right on our path for our summer road trip, so we will have to check them out in person!

That's fantastic! Where else are you heading?

Monday 15th of May 2017

Whoa, looks like so much fun! We just explored some caves in Missouri and I posted a picture of my daughter with the caption, "Kids love caves!" Isn't it so true??

So true! We look for them wherever we go!

Privacy Overview

Secret Caverns

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Secret Caverns - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Sun - Sat 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
• (1.36 mi) Howe Caverns Motel
• (2.58 mi) Super 8 by Wyndham Cobleskill NY
• (3.12 mi) Twin Oaks Campground
• (3.86 mi) The Gables Bed & Breakfast Inn
• (3.56 mi) Charming Victorian located between Albany and Cooperstown
• (1.64 mi) Grapevine Farms
• (1.35 mi) Howe Caverns Cafe
• (1.02 mi) Rubbin Butts BBQ
• (1.27 mi) Perrone's Farm Inc.
• (5.90 mi) Apple Barrel

• Find the right tour for you!
• Self-Guided Cave Trail
• Adventure Tour
• Chester Challenge Hikes
• Snowshoe Trails
• Virtual Tour
• Something for Everyone
• Kid & Family Fun
• Ice Cream Shop
• Young Family Fun
• Pro Shopper
• Local Yokel
• Weekend Warrior
• Teen Spirit
• Pedal Pusher
• The Naturalist
• Private Groups
• School Groups
• News & Events

Natural Stone Bridge & Caves

Family owned for over 200 years, summer self-guided cave trail.

Walk the self-guided and above-ground nature trail to witness this spectacular display of ancient Adirondack geology.  Our rustic stone-step and gravel trail features the massive Stone Bridge, Trout Brook, the old Sawmill Site Waterfalls, Artists' Gorge, incredible potholes and of course several surface caves and grottos.  

The trail is ¾ mile and has over 500 stairs of irregular rock, root and timber. Most groups take about 45-60 minutes. Go at your own pace and rest as you need at any of the picturesque benches along the way. If someone in your party isn’t up for the hike, a Mountain Lake PBS produced video,"Under the Adirondacks," plays on a loop, free of charge near the gift shop.

We keep the trail as natural as possible, however you will encounter some bridges, boardwalks, concrete and steel to limit erosion and maintain safety. Wear sturdy walking or hiking shoes for the best experience!   Remember, you’re mostly above ground, so dress for the weather!

For those fit explorers who want some fabulous views of the Adirondacks, your ticket also includes use of two hiking trails to the top of Catamount and Green Hill (but must start hike before 1pm).

Tickets are Rain/Shine.

Scroll down past the pictures for pricing/info.

Self-Guided Cave Tours

See More Photos

Summer Rates and Dates

Rates self guided cave trail -  summer 2024 .

SEASON PASSES Available

F or an additional $10.00/Adult & $5.00/Child

Best option for return visits and to do our 2 Chester Challenge Hikes

Shop Hours & Admission Sales

Peak season:     .

May 17- Sep 2

9am-6pm (last ticket 4:30pm)

Fall Season:

Sep 3 - Oct 20

10am-5pm (last ticket 3:30pm)

Reservations are now recommended

Book Online Now

Ticket sales end 90 minutes before closing

Plan 1 hour for the trail and 1+ hours for other Activities

Large groups please go to Plan Your Trip

**The trail is not wheelchair accessible, although the shops and PBS video are wheel chair accessible**

**Trail not advisable for anyone with a health problem that prohibits climbing up/down uneven steps**

PEOPLE'S PARK ONLY - PLEASE NO PETS - NO DRONES

Stone bridge park hours, winter self-guided snowshoe tour, closed for the winter season .

• Self-guided tour tickets available 10am-2:30pm. 
• LAST TICKETS SOLD at 2:30pm. 
• Close at 4pm. Reserve On-Line to insure availability
• Snowshoes required, we have limited rentals available
• Small gift shop 10am-4pm
• CLOSED CHRISTMAS DAY
• OPEN MARTIN LUTHER KING DAY JAN 15
• OPEN PRESIDENTS WEEK EVERYDAY FEB 19-23

Summer Self-Guided Tour

May 17 - september 2 2024.

• Self-guided tours  9am-4:30pm
• LAST TICKETS SOLD at 4:30pm 
• Purchase ON LINE at least 1 day prior to ensure availability
• Gift/Rock Shop 9am-6pm
• Additional Hiking Trails 9am-1pm, return by 6pm.

Fall Self-Guided Tour

September 3 - october 20 2024.

• Self-guided tours 10am-3:30pm  
• LAST TICKETS SOLD at 3:30pm.
• Gift/Rock Shop 10am-5pm
• Hiking Trails 10am-1pm, return by 5pm.

Park is CLOSED:

Mid October - Mid December

March- late may, christmas day, stone bridge ice cream stand, located 2.5m from the caves, park at corner of 8061 st rt 9 and stone bridge rd..

Closed for the season.

See you in 2024!

535 Stone Bridge Road Pottersville, NY 12860 518-494-2283

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Natural Stone Bridge and Caves Park

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Caves and mines in Upstate NY: 12 fun places for outdoor, underground adventures

• Updated: May. 29, 2019, 8:37 a.m. |
• Published: May. 29, 2019, 8:26 a.m.
• Ngoc Huynh | [email protected]

Whether you want to discover gems or witness  geological treasures, the mines and caves in Upstate New York do not disappoint.

Prospectors young and old can dig for Herkimer diamonds in and around Herkimer County. These double-terminated quartz crystals (pointed on each end) were created in specific geologic conditions more than 450 million years ago.

For adrenaline junkies, NY state has plenty of caves and caverns to explore. Known as "spelunking," cave hiking will provide an abundance of fossils, mineral deposits, and ancient geological structures with lots of history.

Here are 12 places to check out below.

Prospectors digging for Herkimer diamonds at Herkimer Diamond KOA Resort. (Gary Walts | Syracuse.com)

Herkimer Diamond Mines KOA Resort

This place is a mining entertainment center. It has three quarries and plenty of attractions and activities. High-end accommodations include solar luxury cabins, a tree house lodge, and even an astronomy themed lodge with its own observatory and telescope. The Scialdo family purchased the Herkimer Diamond KOA in 1979. Dr. Renee' Scialdo-Shevat and her father Rudy currently run the facility today. Across the street from the mines is the KOA Resort, situated on the West Canada Creek. Dining options include a restaurant, cafe, and breakfast joint. The Herkimer Diamond Mines KOA Resort was named Campground of the year in 2010.

Phone : 315-717-0175 for mining and 315-891-355 for campground.

Address : KOA Resort Campground,4626 State Route 28, Herkimer, NY 13350. Miners' Village, 4601 State Route 28, Herkimer, NY 13350.

Hours : 9 a.m to 5 p.m. daily. Season starts in April and runs through November.

Cost : $14 age 13 and older, $12 age 5 to 12, and free age 4 and younger. Admission includes an all day prospecting wristband ticket, use of a rock hammer, zip lock bags, and mining information.

Ace of Diamonds Mine & Campground

Young and old adventurers can dig for treasures here. During your visit, dress for the outdoors wearing old clothes, shoes for climbing over rocks and mud, as well as gloves, hats and safety glasses. Bring your own hammers, chisels, and small garden tools. If you want to rent tools, they range from $1 to $6. Camping is available onsite with showers and restrooms are open 24 hours. Camping rates are $20 per night for two people and add $1 for each additional person.

Phone : (315) 891-3855

Address : 84 Herkimer St., Middleville, NY 13406

Hours : 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from April 1 to Oct. 31.

Cost : $10 age 8 and older; $5 age 4-7; and free age 3 and younger. For those who are serious miners, there's a personalized service which includes three 100,000-pound excavators, and cost for the day is $1,900.

Crystal Grove Diamond Mine and Campground

Come relax in this spacious campground by a stream surrounded by trees in the Central Leatherstocking region. Check out many species of bird and wildflower at Crystal Grove and try your hand at mining. Various types of camping accommodations are available. They include cabins, tents, and water/electric hook ups ranging from $32 to $115.

Phone : (518) 568-2914

Address : 161 Co Road 114, St. Johnsville, NY 13452

Hours : 9 a.m. to sundown from mid-April through mid-October.

Cost : For non-campers cost is $12 age 12 and older; $10 age 5-11; and free for age 4 and younger. For campers, cost is $8 age 12 and older; $5 age 5-11 and free ages 4 and younger.

Diamond Acres

Also known as the Margaret Hastings Farm, Diamond Acres is surrounded by miles of beautiful Amish farmland where horses and wagons share the road with cars. Bring your own tools for digging.

Phone : (518) 853-4201

Address : 1706 Stone Arabia Rd., Fonda, NY 12068

Hours : Opens from sun up until sundown from May 1 to Oct. 1.

Cost : Dig fees are $5 per day for age 13 and older and $2 per day age 12 and younger.

Garnet Mine Tours

Located in the Adirondack Mountains since 1878, Barton Mines is one of the oldest family-owned operating mines in the United States. The garnets found in this mine on Gore Mountain have the largest crystal formations of any garnet mine known in the world. The garnet crystals, also known as the hardest in the world, are 12 sided. In the old days, these hardy stones were extracted for their use in products like sandpaper. Now, these garnets are used for waterjet cutting and surface preparation. The Governor of New York, Nelson Rockefeller, made garnet the state's gem stone in 1969.

The Garnet Mine Tour starts at at the Gore Mountain Mineral Shop, and then guests will follow the guide to the site of the Garnet Mines. You'll learn some history and geology of the Garnet Mine and how to find your own gemstones.

Phone : (518) 251-2706

Address : 1126 Barton Mines Road, North River, NY 12856

Hours : 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m, Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Season usually starts mid-June through October.

Cost : $13.95 adult, $9.95 age 7-14, $12.95 senior, and free age 6 and younger. Any rock and gemstones collected on the tour cost $1 per pound.

Howe Caverns

Founded by a farmer named Lester Howe in 1842, this is the largest cave open to the public in the Northeast. It's the #2 most visited natural attraction in New York State after Niagara Falls . Head 156 feet below ground and tour the magnificent limestone caverns featuring stunning geological formations and an underground lake millions of years in the making.

Phone : 518-296-8900

Address : 255 Discovery Drive, Howes Cave, NY, 12092

Hours : 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays.

Cost : $25 adult age 16-64, $22 senior, $21 age 12-15, $13 age 5-11, and free age 4 and younger. Check site for other available specialty tours.

Lockport Cave & Underground Boat Ride

Check out a 70-minute guided historical tour through America's past. Guests will explore the historic Erie Canal Locks 67-71 constructed in 1838 and view ruins from an early industrial age. You'll see unique geological formations and artifacts left behind by the men who build the tunnel in the early days of the Erie Canal. The underground boat tour will bring you through the tunnels and explain the historic connection to the Erie Canals and industrial expansion throughout Western New York .

Phone : (716) 438-0174

Address : 5 Gooding Street, Lockport, NY, 14094

Hours : Varies, depending on month and days, but in June it's 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except for the first two weeks. Check hours here .

Cost : $17.50 adult, $12.25 age 6-13, $3.50 age 5 and younger.

Natural Stone Bridge and Caves Park

Come and explore the natural wonder in the Adirondack Mountains. Featuring the largest marble cave entrance in the eastern U.S., this park features above-ground trails to witness several cave entrances, grottos with raging water or peaceful dark pools, waterfalls and a gorge. For those who are more adventurous, sign up for a guided tour for some wading and crawling through caves before passing through a waterfall into a river and floating down a tunnel of caves.

In winter, take on a snowshoe hike through the woods or play disc golf.

Phone : 518-494-2283

Address : 535 Stone Bridge Road, Pottersville, NY, 12860

Hours : Summer self-guided tours runs 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from May 24 to Sept. 2 and 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. from Sept. 3 to Oct. 14. Guided tour is available, call to make reservations.

Cost : Self-guided tours admission is $15.50 adult, $8.50 for age 5-12, and free for age 4 and younger. For price of other tours, check site .

Panama Rocks Scenic Park

Located 15 minutes from Chautauqua Lake, here is a place to explore a world of towering rocks, deep crevices, passageways, and small caves. The rock formations extend about half-a-mile through a forest and reach upwards of 60 feet tall. Grotesque roots snake down the rocks and delicate ferns, mosses, and lichens add to Panama Rock’s unique, jungle-like charm.

Phone : (716)782-2845

Address : 11 Rock Hill Road, Panama, NY 14767

Hours : 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from early May through October

Cost : $8 cash or $8.25 credit for adult, $5.50 cash or $5.70 credit for age 6-12, and free for age 5 and younger.

Secret Caverns

Secret Caverns is a small commercial cavern founded by local civil engineer Roger Mallery in 1928. Visitors can expect a 45 minute to 1 hour guided walk through unsullied but accessible prehistoric passageway. Mother Nature's handiwork can be easily viewed in the form of stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone. The tour culminates when you reach the world famous 100 feet underground waterfall.

Phone : (518)296-8558

Address : 671 Caverns Road, Howes Cave, NY, 12092

Hours : 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from June to July ; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in August; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. from September to November; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends in December. Season starts in April and runs through December.

Cost : $18 adults, $8 age 6-12, and free age 5 and younger.

Northeastern Cave Conservancy

The Northeastern Cave Conservancy, Inc. (NCC) is a not-for-profit corporation committed to the conservation, study, management, and acquisition of caves and karst areas having significant geological, hydrological, biological, recreational, historical, or aesthetic features.  The NCC programs are focused mainly on the preservation of caves and karst. Outreach includes education in schools and local communities, establishment of park spaces on karstlands, and educational messages about the significance of groundwater pollution on this sensitive underground ecosystem.

Visitors can visit and explore 10 caves in the Capital Region managed by the NCC. Contact the preserve manager for more information . Some caves require getting a permit.

Phone : Contact via email here .

Address : Visitors are asked to contact the maintenance and oversite group to schedule visits and get direction.

Hours : All caves that have had Northern Long Eared bats are closed from Oct. 1 to April 30.

Cost : Varies

Mohonk’s Lemon Squeeze

The hike across the Mohonk Mountain House grounds to the Labyrinth rock scramble and up through the Lemon Squeeze crevice is one of the most memorable outdoor experiences in the Hudson Valley.

Phone :  845-256-2197

Address : 1000 Mountain Rest Road, New Paltz, NY 12561

Hours : Sunrise to sunset

Cost : From Monday to Friday, fee is $22 adult and $16 age 12 and younger. For weekends/holidays, price is $27 adult and $21 age 12 and younger.

Visitors at Walkway over the Hudson. (Dominick Fiorille | NYup.com)

Here are other things to do in Upstate NY.

The best rail trails in Upstate NY: 18 pathways to bike, run or walk this summer

Got a great photo of the Erie Canalway? Here’s a chance for bragging rights

Faerie festivals in Upstate NY: Here are a dozen magical events this summer

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THE GRAND CANYON OF THE ADIRONDACKS

Explore unique adventures at Ausable Chasm, an unparalleled destination in the Adirondacks. Immerse yourself in a journey through time at one of the United States' oldest natural attractions (Established in 1870). Hike, float, or climb amidst the primeval Adirondack forest, encountering captivating landmarks such as Rainbow Falls, Elephant's Head, Column Rock, Hyde's Cave, and the serene Mystic Gorge. Delve hundreds of feet below to traverse natural stone walkways, marveling at the eons of geologic history etched in stone. Visit Ausable Chasm for an extraordinary experience unlike any other in the Adirondacks.

Why Choose Us?

Most visitors opt for the popular two-part Classic Tour that includes a breathtaking hike through the upper chasm followed by a scenic float (via raft) through the lower chasm on the legendary waters of the Ausable River. During the hot days of summer you can also cool yourself off with a relaxing Tube Ride down the river where you will float amongst the towering chasm walls and past the same amazing sights as the rafts.

Looking for more adventure? Try our Adventure Trail via ferrata located in the Upper Chasm.  This family friendly (ages 8+) trail contains cliff walks and other daring elements such as cable bridges that crisscross over the roaring Ausable River. View the stunning Elephant's Head up close and personal and journey through Hell's Gate while en route to the breathtaking Inner Sanctum trail. Visitors also taking the float tour (raft or tube) should purchase our Premium Package as it comes with a nice discount. No reservations are needed all summer long!

The Ausable Chasm Recreation Center at the Ausable Chasm Campground is a biker’s paradise. With over 15 miles of unspoiled terrain, our Mountain Biking Trails offer endless fun for beginners and experts alike. Disc Golf is also offered at the Recreation Center. Bike and disc rentals available.

SPECIAL PACKAGES

Choose from our two most popular packages.

Starting from $49.95

Adirondack Tours at Ausable Chasm offer breathtaking views around every corner, and our Classic Tour is the most popular of all!

Starting from $74.95

Combine the Adventure Trail, Inner Sanctum Trail and float via raft or tube.

WHAT OUR GUESTS SAY

We love getting your feedback. Send a comment below and we can add you to our testimonials.

A must see for everyone! Truly a hidden treasure. When people saw my pictures, they were asking where this place was. Beautiful and amazing place. You can stay on their campgrounds in a cabin, tent or RV. Go!

Breathtaking!!! So happy we visited the Chasm. What breathtaking views. We are left with wonderful memories of the Adirondacks. We will make sure to visit here again the next time we are in the area. The views are not to be missed!!!

Hiking/ Sightseeing. This was my first time visiting Ausable Chasm and I was amazed. Whether you are a adventurer seeker or a sightseer there is something for everyone. I chose the hiking/ sightseeing but I heard from other friends the water rafting experience is awesome! I definitely know I will be returning soon. I strongly recommend visiting this place! Whether you’re with friends or family you will definitely enjoy yourself.

The chasm is absolutely amazing! We went on the adventure trail and rafting, both of which were tremendous fun. The staff was super friendly and helpful. Definitely worth a trip!

One of the best places I’ve ever been to! A great place for anyone to see a natural wonder and to walk through it, no matter what your fitness level.

Awesome place. We did the adventure trail which was awesome. Totally worth it. I didn't know what to expect when we started but it was a thrill. The inner sanctum hike was scenic as well. If you have a chance don't miss the ADVENTURE TRAIL!!

Great day! We recently spent the day in the chasm during our camping trip. We had a great time! Trails are well maintained and we enjoyed both rafting and tubing. The tubes were great for fun on your own and the rafting provided a guide who gave facts and history. Would recommend if you are looking for a fun day that you can make as active or nonactive as you want.