Exploring Cascade Cave In Carter Caves State Resort Park

Cascade Cave is a guided cave tour located in Carter Caves State Resort Park, near Olive Hill, Kentucky.

It is the longest scenic cave tour in the park consisting of large chambers and many amazing cave formations.

Tickets are $11 and must be purchased at the welcome center on the day of the tour. Tours are available year-round, except on certain holidays.

The tour schedule is accessible at the welcome center and online.

The tour spans approximately 75 minutes, covers a 3/4 mile, and includes 250 stair steps. Closed-toed shoes are required.

Cascade Cave is located 2.5 miles from the main section of the park, with directions available at the welcome center upon ticket purchase.

From the parking lot, you will take a short hike to the cave entrance.

The first room, known as the Dance Hall, was used by the previous owner for community dances.

During summer and fall, the park hosts “Cave-In Movie Nights” here once a month. For $6, moviegoers can enjoy popcorn while watching a film inside the cave!

The Lake Room, named for its large reflection pool, is illuminated by blue lights, enhancing its natural beauty. It was one of my favorite parts of the tour.

The cave features various dripstone formations such as stalactites, stalagmites, draperies, and flowstone, with stunning rock formations at every turn.

Highlights of the cavern include the Counterfeiters Room, the Hanging Gardens of King Solomon, Cardross Castle, Ice capped Mountains, and Temple Bells.

Did I mention the 30 foot underground waterfall?

Colored lights light up this beauty and it is incredible. Mystery surrounds this natural feature because, despite several investigations, the source of the water remains unknown.

Unfortunately, I didn’t get any good pics.

At one point, the tour exited the cave onto a wooden boardwalk leading to North Cave, which was unfortunately closed during our visit due to unsafe conditions.

However, the view outside is still impressive.