Caving
Ledge View Nature Center has caves....
These natural holes in dolostone bedrock were formed first by groundwater, then additionally by meltwater from the Wisconsin glacier thousands of years ago. A lot of sediment came in with the meltwater, too, and some of it’s still here.
Public cave tours are available most weekends from May through October. Access to the caves is offered by guided tour only. The caves remain locked between tours.
There are 2 different types of cave tours. Please read the information below to decide which one you would like to do.
Carolyn's Cavern Walking Tour
A naturalist-guided walking tour - crawling and exploring is optional.
$9 per person weekends, $7 per person weekdays.
We will use stairs and ladders to enter the caves.
Join a naturalist for an unforgettable interpretive tour of Carolyn's Caverns. This is a unique wild cave system where crawling and exploring is optional and encouraged, but not required. Learn how caves are formed, some geological history of this area and about animals that use the caves. This is a fun, family friendly tour, minimum 5 years of age. We will use stairs and ladders to enter the caves. Flashlights required.
These are ‘wild’ caves and we do not have paved walkways or electricity. Closed toed shoes, long pants, and long sleeves are a must! A sweatshirt, boots, a hat, and gloves are suggested. The caves are frequently muddy in areas. Please bring a flashlight other than your phone. This is a walking tour with optional crawling opportunities. Come ready to explore!
This tour is available to children 5 years and older (accompanied by a supervising adult).
Adventure Caving Tour
A naturalist-guided walking and crawling tour - for those with a sense of adventure!
Are you looking for a fun and physical interpretive tour of a wild cave? Our Adventure Caving includes Carolyn's Caverns and Mothers Cave, with lots of crawling and exploring. Learn how caves are formed, some geological history of this area and about animals that use the caves. Challenge yourself to try all the (sometimes small) tunnels and ‘The Squeeze’!
Participants need to bring a flashlight and must wear closed-toe footwear (no sandals or flip flops). To be comfortable a sweatshirt and long pants is recommended as the cave are around 55?F. This also provides protection from rocks. The tour lasts for 2-3 hours depending on the group size, maximum 30 people.