The great cave of the Northeast is an underground world of stalagmites and stalactites that took millions of years to create. Imagine stepping into an elevator that takes you 156 feet below the Earth's surface. When the elevator stops, the doors open into a prehistoric underground cavern six million years in the making. As you exit into the Vestibule, your imagination takes hold.
The air down here is different. A constant 52 degrees Fahrenheit and 70-75% humidity, year round. As your eyes adjust to the underworld, shadows hide secrets in every crack and crevice. Every sound echoes off the walls and ceiling, reminding you of just how deep you have descended and what surprises await you in this underground wonder!
You don't have to be a serious caver or spelunker to appreciate the geology of Howe Caverns. Your specially trained tour guide will help you negotiate the cave and learn more about the magnificent limestone stalagmites and flowstone, and the tremendous conservation effort underway to protect and preserve Howe Caverns for future generations.
Grades: K – 12
Class Limit: Minimum class size = 25 persons (including chaperones)
Length of Program: 1 Hour 30 Minutes in the cave
Description: Tour a living limestone cave. Hear about the history and geological development of the cave; view stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, fossils and grottos. A boat ride takes you on the underground lake formed by the underground river which runs through the cave.
Common Core Learning Standards: English Language Arts:
Vocabulary Acquisition and Use
Learning Standards for Physical Education:
Personal Health and Fitness (will walk one mile on tour)
Science and Engineering Practices:
Analyzing and interpreting data
Learning Standards for Social Studies:
History of the US and NY
Geography
Cost:
$10.00 per student
$20.00 per chaperone
1 complimentary chaperone per every 15 students
A minimum of 25 participants (including chaperones) are required to receive this group discount