Stephens Gap Callahan Cave Preserve: An Underground Jewel
Explore a stunning Alabama cave with a 143-foot pit, mesmerizing waterfall, and walk-in access for hikers and cavers alike. Permit required!
Discover the beauty of Stephens Gap Callahan Cave Preserve, a 123-acre natural attraction near Woodville, Alabama. Known for its stunning 143-foot pit cave and a mesmerizing waterfall, it offers a unique experience for hikers, photographers, and cavers alike [6, 7, 9]. Managed by the Southeastern Cave Conservancy, Inc. (SCCi), the preserve ensures the protection of this beloved cave system for future generations [6, 9, 18].
A brief summary to Stephens Gap Callahan Cave Preserve
- 8408 Co Rd 30, Woodville, Alabama, 35776, US
- +1423-771-9671
- Visit website
Local tips
- A permit is required to visit the preserve and can be obtained through the Southeastern Cave Conservancy, Inc. (SCCi) [3, 5, 6].
- Helmets, headlamps, and sturdy shoes are highly recommended, even for the walk-in passage [9, 18].
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best chance to see the light beams, and after rainfall for enhanced waterfalls [7].
- Cell service is unreliable in the area, so don't rely on it for communication or emergencies [18, 19].
Getting There
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Driving
Stephens Gap Callahan Cave Preserve is located at 8408 Co Rd 30, Woodville, AL 35776 [6]. From Huntsville, take US-72 E and AL-35 N to Co Rd 30 in Jackson County. Follow Co Rd 30 to the preserve. The drive is approximately 45 minutes to an hour. Parking is available at the trailhead [5, 8]. Be aware that cellular service is limited in the area [18, 19].
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Walking
From the parking area [5, 8], the trail to Stephens Gap Cave is approximately 0.7 miles [5, 18]. The trail begins at the "Trailhead" sign on the right end of the parking area, next to a kiosk [5]. The trail ascends through a boulder field with ferns [5]. At 0.35 miles, the trail parallels a rocky drainage [5]. The main trail ends at Stephens Gap Cave [5]. Follow the trail to the edge of the Stephens Gap Cave pit [5]. Be cautious near the edge [5, 18].
Discover more about Stephens Gap Callahan Cave Preserve
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