I love caving and the Bowling Green, Kentucky region has a LOT of caves to explore in the area. The boys and I enjoyed several adventures at Hidden River Cave. I loved that this cave is tucked away under downtown streets of Horse Cave city and that you have options for all adventure levels.

Zipline Above the Cave

You can zip line 70 feet above ground at 30 mph. You can opt for a single zip or there are discounts for multiple trips.

Make sure that you wear closed toed shoes and comfortable clothing if you plan on ziplining or rappelling and don’t forget to dress in layers if you plan on entering the cave. It’s around 60 degrees year round.

Rappel to the Cave Entrance

You can also rappel down 75 ft to the opening of Hidden River Cave. The hardest part of repelling is leaning back over the edge because it feels so unnatural. My older son was a little nervous but the guide did a great job of coaching him over the edge. I promise that’s the hardest part! The rest is really fun once you make it over the edge and you get some unique perspectives of the cave.

You can choose a single rappel or there are discounts for multiple trips.

Hidden River Cave Tours

Hidden River Cave first started doing tours around 1916. The public guided tour gives you a lot of history and information on the cave ecosystems as well. There is a public guided tour that lasts about 45-60 minutes or an extreme 3 or 5-hour tour.

The cave used to be a source of hydroelectricity and a water source for the town. This tour has quite a few steps, 230, but the views are totally worth it.

If you are interested in the Wild Cave Tours you will need to make a reservation in advance.

The American Cave and Karst Center

You can learn more about cave systems inside the American Cave Museum that is onsite and included with your cave tour

At the museum, you learn about karst geology, the history of caving, archeology, cave wildlife and cave formations.

You can find out more about Hidden River Cave to plan your next adventure from their website.

Hidden River Cave & American Cave Museum is located at 119 E. Main St., Horse Cave, KY 42749.

Disclosure: I was given complimentary accommodations and admissions from Visit Bowling Green for review purposes. All opinions are my own. 

Save this post for later. Pin the image below>>