Before visiting Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico I could not have cared less about touring a cave. “For heaven’s sake why visit a cave!?” That all changed when I was blown away at the National Park.
Luray Caverns located along the west side the Shenandoah Mountains is the closest massive cave to where I live. It was discovered in 1878 and since then has been a year-around tourist attraction. Sure enough, the parking lot was half full and it was the middle of the week with school in session.
The total walk was 1.25 miles, impressive but small by contrast to Carlsbad. Regardless, I enjoyed it very much. The rock formations were varied and interesting. The lighting was well done and good for affect albeit very dim for photography. My only gripe is that you tour the cave with a group. It’s not self-paced and consequently there’s little time to frame, set-up, and shoot pictures, especially using a tripod. That didn’t stop me though as you can see below:
Once I was outside again, I went to a couple of the neighboring sites. There are the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum and Garden Maze, which I visited. There were other things too but I’d already done my favorite: drive along the Skyline Drive of the Shenandoah National Park.
The Luray Caverns were a wonder to visit. At long last I’ve seen what my daughters have seen before me. Why is it that they so so often beat me to these great tourist sites?! I better hurry to see Mammoth Cave before they do!
by 
