Lost River Cave

Kentucky's only Underground Boat Tour and the enchanting Butterfly Habitat await you at Lost River Cave. Daylight disappears from view as you board the boat on the river that Ripley's Believe It or Not claims is the shortest and deepest in the world. A comfortable 57 degrees year round, the boat tour offers a visit into the timeless world of a Kentucky Natural wonder. The guided walking tour along the river's edge will bring alive stories of Native Americans, Early European settlers, Civil War troops and the notorious Jesse James. 

Throughout the valley, enjoy Treetop Bridge, nature trails, bird watching stations, picnic areas, and a favorite children's activity, the gemstone sluice. Wildflower Gifts offers apparel, home decor, collectibles, jewelry, Kentucky food products, fossils, and more. 

Just looking to stretch your legs and enjoy some fresh air? Enjoy the valley's blue hole trails at no charge by simply checking in at the Visitor Center to let them know you're there. Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the valley.

Special tours including Kayak the Cave and the Discovery Cave Crawl are available on a limited basis during the fall, winter and early spring when the river level is safe. All equipment including kayak, paddle, personal floatation device, helmets and headlamps is included. Contact the cave for reservations and more details. 

Lost River Cave is available for corporate, civic, or social events after 6:30 pm each day. Walk along the river's edge, hold a ceremony or cocktail party on the bridge or at the Butterfly Habitat. The ballroom is under roof, has a crystal chandelier and holds 300 seated guests with room for dancing. The new River Birch Meeting Room will hold approximately 50 people and is perfect for an annual meeting, social gathering or birthday party.

*NOTE: There has been some concern with cave tours about White Nose Syndrome found in bats. With regular flooding of Lost River Cave in addition to lack of human contact with trails or surfaces inside the cave due to the nature of the boat tour, the possibility of human transmission of any fungus is negligible. Less than a handful of bats find their way into Lost River each year and normal operations will continue.