Travertine dripstone formation, Shenandoah Caverns (James St. John/Flickr/CC BY 2)
Virginia’s beautiful Shenandoah Valley has a rich geological heritage, shaped over millions of years of natural history. Gregg Clemmer, an experienced caver and explorer, takes you deep into that ancient past at two of the state’s most notable caverns and offers a chance to sample products of the valley’s fertile soil at a visit to a regional vineyard and winery.
Begin at Endless Caverns in New Market, where in 1879, a deep hole covered by boulders was found to be the entrance to a 6-mile-long limestone cave at the foot of the Massanutten mountain ridge. Even today, much of the cave remains unexplored and untouched. A guided tour takes you through its subterranean wonders.
After a picnic boxed lunch, spend the afternoon exploring Shenandoah Caverns, where you descend inside Virginia's only cave elevator to see the formations that first captivated explorers in 1884. Marvel at the bush-like structures of aragonite crystal bursting from walls and stunning rock draperies—cascades of flowstone mineral deposits suspended from ceilings.
Above ground, conclude the day with a relaxing visit to Cave Ridge Winery and enjoy a guided wine tasting while taking in the breathtaking views of the Shenandoah Valley.
Know Before You Go
- The tour departs by motorcoach from downtown Washington, DC with a designated secondary pick-up outside the city. Content delivered by the study leader on the way to the destination, after the secondary pick-up, is an integral part of the study tour experience. Meeting the group once the tour is en route is discouraged.
- Tour participants meet at and leave by bus from Holiday Inn Capitol, 550 C St., S.W., with a pickup stop at the Vienna Metro south-side Kiss and Ride kiosk at about 7:55 a.m.
- This tour requires a significant amount of walking, standing, and dealing with steps.
General Information
- Registration for this tour will end by 2 p.m. ET on Friday, September 20, 2024.
- Smithsonian Associates is a mask-friendly environment. Please feel free to bring and wear a mask at any time during a tour, both for your safety or the safety of others.
- As we aim to move away from single use water bottles, guests are strongly encouraged to get in the habit of bringing their own reusable water bottle on tour.
- For additional tour information:
