Ohio's largest cave system at Ohio Caverns has nearly two miles of narrow passageways bordered by damp rocks that occasionally open to wide chambers and underground streams. If you have ever wanted to feel like a true explorer, check out these unique caving opportunities in Ohio. Many of the caves are inaccessible to the public, but there are few that you can explore to get a glimpse of the fascinating underworld of stalactites, stalagmites, and minerals that have crystallized over thousands of years.Įxploring some of Ohio's exciting natural resources within the cave systems requires no previous experience and all of the caves that are open to the public offer trained guides to lead the way. The Ohio Caverns is just the beginning of some of the 400 caves in Ohio that are made up of elaborate tunnel networks below ground. I wonder what I can expect when I cross through the small entrance into the winding and narrow cave that remains a consistent 54-degrees year-round. My second train of thought shifts to my own exciting moment of discovery. I ponder the amazement and confusion he must have felt uncovering this complex cave network that remains one of Ohio's most stunning natural resources. First, I wonder what it must have been like for the farmer who accidentally discovered this massive and elaborate cave system below the land that he was tending in 1887 in rural Ohio. Starting from Leigh Lake Trailhead, head west on Leigh Lake Trailhead Connector, then head immediately north onto String Lake Trail.As I walk down the staircase to the entrance of Ohio's largest cave at the Ohio Caverns, my mind shifts between two trains of thought. From here, soak up the awesome views of the surrounding Teton Range just across String Lake. These views are best during the morning hours when the skies tend to be clearer. Initially String Lake Trail is doubletrack, but after turning left (west) at the junction of Leigh Lake Trail, the trail becomes singletrack. Immediately after this junction you'll cross a long, trussed footbridge and enter some deep forest. Continue through this mature forest until you reach an intersection with Paintbrush Canyon trail. Turn right (northwest) and start your ascent of Paintbrush Canyon. The higher you ascend, the more the forest starts to thin out and the more colorful your surroundings will become. In addition to great views, this canyon is teeming with wildflowers, specifically Indian Paintbrush - this canyon's namesake. When you hit the junction for Holly Lake trail, you can continue up the canyon, but it's recommended that you head to Holly Lake to get some great lakefront views. Continue up this steep climb to this crystal clear lake set in the shadow of Mount Woodring (11,591'). After a nice break, continue up this trail and rejoin Paintbrush Canyon. Paintbrush Canyon climbs for ~1 more mile, rises above treeline, and gains Paintbrush Divide (10,700'). The divide is north-facing, so plan for snow (an ice axe may be necessary through July here). The trail is well-contoured up to the divide somewhat offsetting the presence of snow.Īfter some great views from the divide, head down an equally, if not more scenic route down to Lake Solitude. For the majority of this descent you can see both Lake Solitude, Mica Lake and Grand Teton. Over time Lake Solitude has become one of the most heavily trafficked routes in the park, so don't expect total solitude here.Īfter taking in the views from the lake, head down North Fork Cascade Canyon. Grand Teton is constantly looming overhead on this trail, an awesome view you might miss if you do this route the other direction.
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