Laurel Caverns

Laurel Caverns, is the largest cave in Pennsylvania by volume and area. Split into two sections, its entrance into the upper cavern is a network of interconnecting grid-like passages, while its unlit lower cavern, known as its branch-work, consists of subterranean watercourses into a dendritic system of passages. Laurel Caverns features an array of speleological and pseudokarsts formations. Its average temperature is 52°F (11° C). Located in Farmington, Pennsylvania, it sits on Chestnut Ridge near Uniontown, about 50 miles (80 km) southeast of Pittsburgh.

Laurel Caverns
Stairs, lit with electric lights, lead into the cavern.
LocationFarmington, Pennsylvania
Length4,972 meters (16,312 ft)[1]
Discovery1760s (first recorded exploration)[2]
GeologyKarst cave
Mississippian Loyalhanna limestone
AccessAdults: $14 USD
Seniors (65+): $11 USD
Children (12-18): $10 USD
Children (6-11): $10 USD
Children (0-5): free

Upper Caving (9 and up): $20 USD
Lower Caving (12 and up): $25 USD

It is a privately owned show cave specially featuring a three-hour-long guided tour descending over forty stories exploring the branch-work.

Narrow section of a portion of the cave that can be viewed on the standard tour.


The steep slope of some passageways causes an optical illusion known as a gravity hill. The illusion of a ball rolling uphill is an illustration of this effect and a mainstay for the businesses one-hour guided family tour of the network. The business also features other accommodations such as a gift shop, mini-golf course, and panning for gemstones and fossils activities.

References

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