Explore Westcave Preserve

On your grotto hike, your guide will take you along a 15 minute walk from the waiting area in an arid savanna through a limestone crevice down a 100 foot staircase into a sheltered canyon of lush plant life. After a 15 minute walk you will reach the head of the canyon where water falls along a stunning 40-foot cliff that stands replenishing the grotto pool below, with a 1-chamber room cave. The experience is a 1-mile, roundtrip, moderate to difficult hike from the parking lot. Visitors hike in and out of the canyon by way of a long, winding, uneven 125 step staircase built into the slope of the canyon. Once in the canyon there are additional steps, rocks and roots to navigate. We encourage visitors to wear sturdy shoes and bring their own walking stick if needed.

    The staircase is often which is the largest challenge, but those guest are welcome to enjoy the uplands with ADA friendly trail, bird blinds and a butterfly garden.