Discover the Science and Magic of Dye Tracing at Lost River Cave in Bowling Green, Kentucky

Bowling Green•easy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

Under 1 hour

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels, including children aged 8 and up. Mainly walking on flat surfaces with some uneven terrain.

Overview

Explore the captivating world beneath Bowling Green at Lost River Cave with the "Go With The Flow" program, where live dye tracing reveals the secrets of underground rivers. This interactive, family-friendly science tour offers a unique blend of education and adventure.

Bowling Green, Kentucky

Go With The Flow

Dye Tracing Program

Select participants and date

Date

Mon, Oct 13

Travelers

Adventure Photos

About This Adventure

Join us for a unique river dyeing event featuring green-tinted boat tours and a FREE educational program, "Go with the Flow." Perfect for ages 8 and up, this interactive experience includes a live dye demonstration and engaging games led by scientists, making learning fun and memorable. Reserve your spot now!

Let the shenanigans begin! Join us as we dye the river In addition to our green-tinted boat tours, we’re offering a FREE special educational program, Go with the Flow, to dive deeper into the science behind this magical event. This program is perfect for ages 8 and up, and it’s a great way to learn while having fun. Be sure to reserve your spot fast—these programs fill up quickly!

10:30 AM & 3:30 PM: Open to the Public Join us as scientists from WKU’s Crawford Hydrology Lab share the fascinating science of dye tracing and its importance in our complex underground landscape. After the live dye injection demonstration, our Lost River Cave team will lead a fun, interactive educational game that’s perfect for curious minds.

1:30 PM: Member-Only Program This exclusive program is reserved for our amazing members! Not a member yet? Join today to gain access to unique behind-the-scenes experiences like this. To sign up for the 1:30 PM session, email Kate.

Adventure Tips

Arrive Early for Best Experience

The dye injection sessions fill quickly, so plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before start time to secure your spot.

Wear Comfortable Footwear

The cave and surrounding area involve some walking on uneven surfaces; sturdy shoes are recommended.

Bring a Rain Jacket in Spring

Weather can be unpredictable near the cave entrance in spring; a lightweight rain jacket keeps you comfortable.

Prepare for Limited Cell Service

Cell coverage around the cave can be spotty, so download any needed information beforehand.

Local Insights

Wildlife

Eastern Hellbender Salamander
Kentucky Warbler

History

Lost River Cave has been a critical site for studying Kentucky’s karst hydrology and was opened to public tours as early as 1949, making it the longest commercially toured cave in the state.

Conservation

Lost River Cave partners with scientists and local organizations to protect the underground water systems and educates visitors on preserving karst environments.