Is there a travel-loving dad in your world? Whether you go as a group or give as a gift, these ideas may inspire a new adventure.
Go Caving
Learn about dry and wet caves, the creatures that live in them, and the characteristics that create these natural settings with a visit to an underground wonder. Discover the story of two University of Arizona students and amateur cavers who, in 1974, spotted a narrow crack in the bottom of a sinkhole. They followed the unusually moist air and discovered more than 2 miles of unspoiled cave passages. The caverns, carved from limestone, were not opened to the public until 1999 and are part of the Arizona State Park system. Visit this living or “wet” cave, to experience stalactites, stalagmites, “cave bacon,” and small white helictites. Many of the resident minerals are not found in any other cave in the world. Among the cave’s highlights: a 22-foot-long “soda straw” stalactite, reported to be the second longest in the world. For a unique experience, visitors 10 and older can experience the cave as the first discoverers did during a tour that uses only light provided by a helmet headlamp. Or, consider a visit to the hill country of south-central Kentucky to explore Mammoth Cave, the world’s largest known cave system and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore 400 miles of vast chambers and complex labyrinths on a variety of tours designed to appeal to multiple ages and abilities. If you are not sure spelunking is for you, consider the short, small-group Introduction to Caving tour. Reservations are strongly recommended.
For more: www.azstateparks.com/parks/KACA/; nps.gov/maca
