Howe Caverns | Albany

Howe Caverns is a popular natural attraction located in upstate New York, near the town of Howes Cave in Schoharie County. It is one of the most visited show caves in the eastern United States, known for its spectacular underground formations and unique guided tours.

Overview

Howe Caverns was discovered in 1842 by Lester Howe. It quickly became a tourist destination due to its stunning geological features and easy accessibility. The caverns extend for over 1,200 feet beneath the earth and offer visitors a fascinating glimpse into subterranean natural wonders.

Geological Features

The caverns are formed in limestone and showcase classic karst formations such as stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones, and columns. These formations have developed over thousands of years through the slow deposition of minerals from dripping water.

Visitors can see impressive rock formations shaped by natural processes including erosion and mineral crystallization. The cave environment maintains a cool, consistent temperature year-round.

Visitor Experience

Howe Caverns offers a variety of guided tours designed to explore the cave’s features safely and educationally:

Walking Tours: Visitors are led through well-lit pathways that highlight key formations and geological history.

Boat Tour: A unique aspect of Howe Caverns is the underground boat ride on an underground river, providing a serene and unusual perspective on the cave’s interior.

Adventure Tours: For more adventurous visitors, special tours allow deeper exploration of less accessible cave passages and formations, sometimes requiring crawling and climbing.

Educational Aspect

Tours are led by knowledgeable guides who explain the cave’s formation, geology, and history. The experience is both entertaining and informative, appealing to families, school groups, and geology enthusiasts.

Facilities and Amenities

Howe Caverns includes visitor amenities such as a gift shop, picnic areas, and event spaces. It is accessible year-round, with peak visitor seasons in spring and summer.

Surrounding Area

The area around Howe Caverns offers additional outdoor activities, including hiking trails, picnic spots, and seasonal events. Its location within the scenic Schoharie region makes it a great destination for combining natural exploration with rural charm.

Howe Caverns stands out as an accessible and exciting natural attraction, showcasing the hidden beauty beneath New York’s surface and offering a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.