Cathedral Caverns State Park: An Underground Wonderland

4.8 (2790)

Discover Alabama's hidden gem: a cathedral of natural wonders beneath the surface. Explore majestic caves, hike scenic trails, and create unforgettable memories.

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Cathedral Caverns State Park

Explore the depths of Cathedral Caverns State Park in Woodville, Alabama, home to stunning geological formations, including one of the world's largest stalagmites, 'Goliath,' and a massive cave entrance. Enjoy guided tours, hiking trails, and gem mining in this natural wonderland.

A brief summary to Cathedral Caverns State Park

637 Cave Rd, Woodville, Alabama, 35776, US
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Monday 9 am-5:30 pm
Tuesday 9 am-5:30 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
Friday 9 am-5:30 pm
Saturday 9 am-5:30 pm
Sunday 9 am-5:30 pm

Local tips

Book your cave tour in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability.
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on potentially damp surfaces.
Bring a light jacket, as the cave temperature remains a constant 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius).
Check the park's website for events like gem mining and educational programs.
Pack a picnic to enjoy in the park's scenic picnic areas.

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Getting There

Driving

Cathedral Caverns State Park is located at 637 Cave Rd, Woodville, AL 35776. From Huntsville, take I-565 East and merge onto US-72 East. Continue to Country Road 63 in Woodville, then turn right onto Cathedral Caverns Highway. After approximately 3 miles, turn left onto Cathedral Caverns Road. Ample parking is available near the Visitor Center. Parking is free.

Discover more about Cathedral Caverns State Park

Cathedral Caverns State Park, nestled in the foothills of northern Alabama, invites you to discover a mesmerizing subterranean world. Originally named 'Bat Cave,' its massive entrance, measuring 126 feet wide and 25 feet high, is one of the largest cave openings in the world. The cave was renamed Cathedral Caverns due to its cathedral-like appearance, adorned with magnificent stalactites and stalagmites. Inside, you'll find 'Goliath,' one of the world's largest stalagmites, standing 45 feet tall with a circumference of 243 feet. Other notable features include the 'Frozen Waterfall,' a flowstone formation resembling a frozen cascade, a 'Stalactite Forest,' and the 'Mystery River' flowing through the caverns. The 'Big Room,' the main chamber, is large enough to fit a football field. Archaeological excavations suggest Native American occupation dating back as far as 7000 BCE. During the Civil War, the Kennamer family even took refuge in the cave after their home was burned down. The state purchased the caverns in 1987 and opened it as a state park in 2000. Today, guided tours lead visitors through 1.5 miles of wheelchair-accessible paths, revealing the cave's history and geological wonders. Beyond the cave, the 493-acre park offers hiking trails, gem mining, camping, and picnic areas.