It is time to think about doing something different for a vacation, get out of the rut and go to places off the beaten track and in this case, way, way off the track, beaten or otherwise. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a bat and live way down deep in the earth, in some of the most spectacular places that Mother Nature ever thought of? You have seen cave explorations on television, but how about giving yourself and the family an off the beaten track experience of a life time and explore on your own in the caves of up state New York. You do not have to block out a large amount of time, you can come just for a day or a weekend and see if you want to come back for a longer stay. The kids will love it and just think of the stories you can tell around the water cooler on your return. Be sure to bring walking shoes and a light jacket, the caves are cool all year long. So come on, read about the caves of Up State New York, leave the beaten trails behind you and take the bull by the hones and just do it.
Howe Caverns
Howe Caverns is probably the most well known of the caves in New York State. How would you like to take the family on a boat ride on an underground lake, or let the kids participate in their special activities like mining for gen stones or going on pony rides, but the spotlight of the trip will be the guided tours deep down under the earth, to places that have been unchanged for thousands and thousands of years. Howe Caverns has their own motel and has some great overnight packages.
Secret Caves
http://www.secretcaverns.com/
Secret Caves is located just a few miles from Albany, the state capital. Your guided tour will take you to see the magnificent under ground waterfalls. The trail is about a half mile and is completed in one to tow hours, but the things you will see will stay with you forever, especially the pre historic fossils.
Natural Stone Bridge and Caves
http://www.stonebridgeandcaves.com/
The Adirondack Mountains on Northern New York have some of the most beautiful scenery anywhere to be found. You can explore the outdoors on your own, walk over natural bridges and stop and rest by the side of flowing streams and see the Adirondack wild life up close and personal. The cave tours are very hand on, much more than walking on a pre made trail. It is for those 13 and older only and you get down on your hands an knees and explore the caves the professional way. Don’t worry, they supply you with special suits. You can mine for gemstones, mine a gold mine or even play frisbee golf.
