Stark Caverns - A Great Place For First Time Cavers

Interested in taking a cave tour, but not sure what to expect? That is often the case as tourists ponder the option of visiting one of Missouri’s amazing caves.

Stark Caverns is a great experience for first-time cave-exploration. Our wide, paved walking paths make the cavern 85% wheel-chair accessible, and allow even the most claustrophobic individuals plenty of breathing room. 

Stepping inside the cave is always a wow moment as visitors are exposed to the grandeur of Stark Caverns. The vast width and breadth of the cave is immediately visible as folks begin the tour by crossing the boardwalk through the center of the cavern. Surrounded by unique formations, your tour guide will explain how people and wildlife have utilized the cave for shelter, food, and protection across the ages.

Carved by water from dolomite and chert, visitors will be able to see formations like soda straws, draperies, and cave bacon. Fossilized seaweed and crinoids offer a glimpse of the Mississippian period when Missouri was partially submerged in a shallow sea.

Fascinating features are all around, including overhead. Guests that look up will see that the cave is still forming; helictites and stalactites grow from the water that slowly flows into the cave from the surface, adding to these formations. If you’re lucky, you’ll experience a “cave kiss”, which is a droplet of water that has finally completed its journey from the outside, through the many layers of rock, down the formations, and finally to you. Many people believe it’s a sign of good luck to receive a cave kiss!

Filled with plenty of interesting history, this one-hour guided tour is fun for explorers of all ages, so bring the whole family. Our guides are happy to answer all of your questions and will point out interesting artifacts and minerals along the way. Open year-round, you can purchase your tickets online at www.StarkCaverns.com. We’re confident that your first cave tour won’t be your last.

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