Into the Stone: A Guided Walk Through Civil War Caverns
Walk the caverns where soldiers lived and left their names.
The guide drops the flashlight into your palm like a baton. For a moment the room is a cluster of faces circled in low, amber light; then the cavern swallows the square of the world above. Stalactites drip the slow arithmetic of decades while rock surfaces, warmed for a second by your presence, cool back to the patient blue-gray of subterranean time. This is not a spelunking expedition; it’s a conversation with history. On the Historic Cave Tour, you walk where soldiers once slept, ate, and carved their names into stone.
Trail Wisdom
Bring a light jacket
Cavern temperatures hover in the mid-50s°F year-round; a lightweight layer keeps you comfortable.
Wear sturdy shoes
Paths are uneven and occasionally slippery—closed-toe hiking shoes or sneakers are advised.
Follow the guide
Stick to the guided route to protect fragile formations and historic inscriptions.
Carry a small headlamp
Although chambers are lit, a headlamp helps when passing through dim sections and frees your hands.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Edith J. Carrier Arboretum—quiet trails and plant collections near downtown Harrisonburg
- •A scenic backroad drive up North Mountain for valley overlooks and less-crowded viewpoints
Wildlife
Little brown bats (viewing from a distance), White-tailed deer in surrounding fields
Conservation Note
Visitors are asked not to touch formations or inscriptions and to stay on designated routes to protect both geological and historical features.
The caverns were used as shelter by Confederate soldiers; more than 100 signatures and drawings left by the soldiers remain visible on the walls.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Mild outdoor pairings, Wildflower drives, School breaks
Challenges: Mud on approach trails, Variable surface temps
Spring offers cool days aboveground and comfortable cave temperatures—expect muddy access roads after heavy rains.
summer
Best for: Cooling off underground, Family outings, Combining with water activities
Challenges: Higher visitor demand on weekends, Limited parking
Summer brings steady crowds seeking cool relief; book early and arrive ahead of scheduled start times.
fall
Best for: Fall foliage drives, Photography, Weekend getaways
Challenges: Shorter daylight hours, Busy regional tourism
Autumn pairs the cave’s steady climate with spectacular valley colors—perfect for a combined day of hiking and history.
winter
Best for: Off-season quiet, Comfortable cave warmth, Indoor-friendly activity
Challenges: Icy roads nearby, Limited services on holidays
Winter tours are often quieter and the cave’s consistent temperature is especially pleasant after a cold drive.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy closed-toe shoesEssential
Provide traction and protect feet on uneven, occasionally damp cave floors.
Light insulating layer (fleece or jacket)Essential
Keeps you comfortable in the cave’s cool, steady temperature.
Headlamp or small flashlight
Useful for dim passageways and hands-free illumination during close-up viewing.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Hydration before and after the tour—no drinking water available underground.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The guided tour lasts approximately 50 minutes, with groups limited to 20 guests for an intimate experience.
Is the cave wheelchair accessible?
The route includes uneven surfaces and low-clearance passages; it is not fully wheelchair accessible—contact operators for details about accommodations.
Can I take photos inside the caverns?
Photography is allowed but lighting is low; use a tripod or a camera with strong low-light capability, and avoid flash when instructed to protect delicate formations.
Are there age restrictions?
There are no strict age limits, but young children should be able to walk short distances and follow safety guidance; strollers are not practical underground.
What is the cave temperature?
The cave maintains a relatively constant temperature in the mid-50s°F (around 12–13°C), so bring a light jacket even in summer.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes—group sizes are limited, so reserve a spot through the official booking page to ensure availability.
What to Pack
Sturdy shoes, light jacket, headlamp, water bottle — for traction, warmth, illumination, and hydration.
Did You Know
More than 100 names and drawings etched into the cavern walls were left by soldiers who sheltered there during the Civil War—these inscriptions are preserved as a direct record of wartime life.
Quick Travel Tips
Book ahead; arrive 15 minutes early; expect no cell service underground; bring cash or card for entry depending on operator.
Local Flavor
After the tour, head into downtown Harrisonburg’s Court Square for farm-to-table meals and local breweries; the town’s food scene pairs well with a history-packed morning underground.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport (SHD) ~25 miles. Driving distance from Harrisonburg: about 10–20 minutes depending on traffic. Cell service: Good aboveground, limited underground. Permits: Paid tour tickets required—reserve in advance.
Sustainability Note
This site is a fragile cultural and geological resource—do not touch formations, avoid flash photography when requested, and pack out any trash to help preserve the inscriptions and cave environment.