Duration

1.5 hours

Overview

Take the Extended Winter Tour! This tour includes highlights of the Natural Wonder Tour and ALL of the Historic Tour PLUS a section that is not toured during the summer season. This tour is ONLY offered one time each day on weekends and select holidays. Once it is full, no one else can be added.

The Extended Winter Tour was originally opened in 1996 to celebrate 100 years since the discovery of the caverns in 1897.

Extended Winter Tour guests receive a heavy dose of both historical and geological information. Guests descend 38 steps into the caverns, walk on a level concrete path, exit 44 steps for a short time where the caverns were first discovered, and eventually walk up 60 steps to end the tour at the south end of the park.

You'll see the largest stalactite known as the Crystal King, along with many other unique formation like soda straws, helictites, flow stone and many more!

Park Information

Before and after the tour, spend time in the 35-acre well maintained park, located directly above the caverns. It contains a playground, picnic shelters, picnic areas, EV charging stations, and restrooms. There is also a large gift shop located within the visitor’s center building.

FAQ Answers

• The Extended Winter tour has 38 steps down to enter, 44 steps up then back down at the site of discovery and 60 steps up to exit.
• Strollers are not recommended because the pathway is too narrow in many parts of the caverns. Chest baby carriers or back carriers work great.
• Pets are not allowed in the cavern. Certified service dogs are permitted.
• Food and drink is not permitted in the caverns. It is recommended to bring picnic lunches to enjoy the beautiful park. Snacks are available for purchase in the gift shop.
• Flash photography is welcome but please stay with the group.
• Video recording, tripods, monopods and selfie sticks are not permitted.
• The temperature in the cavern is 54° F year round so bring a jacket or sweatshirt. Closed toed shoes are recommended.

• Parking is FREE every day. Once the main parking lot is full, parking is available just off the main driveway in the grass.
• Complimentary Hybrid and EV charging is also available.

Additional information

Please arrive 15 minutes ahead of your reserved time! Check-in at the ticket booth inside the Visitor Center. You will be given a ticket to hand to the guide upon the start of the tour. The Extended Winter tour begins in the Visitor Center. The tour time may vary past the time you booked to accommodate tour spacing.

Please Note: Your tour could start up to 15 minutes after your booked time.

Cancellations

Customers will receive a full refund or credit with 24 hours notice of cancellation. Customers will also receive a full refund or credit in case of operator cancellation due to unforeseen circumstances. Contact us by phone to inquire about cancellations. No-shows will be charged the full price.