The Cave Spring Park and nature trail are located just about three miles from my home. For years I would drive by it and never visit it. Each time I would see the sign I would ask my self “I wonder if there is really a cave there?” So I finally first visited a few years ago and I can attest that yes, there is, in fact, a cave there and not only that but a very interesting and somewhat eerie nature trail there as well.
The hiking trails are all circular and each about a mile they overlap so it is easy to go in circles. Fortunately, the trails are well marked with signs, but it wouldn’t hurt to get a free map at the ranger station or at least take a picture of the map with your phone.
The park has both paved and dirt trails. If you take a dirt trail be sure to use bug repellent because the mosquitos, ticks, and chiggers are really biting this year.
The trails have several ponds. This one was nearly covered in algae and was very popular with frogs. And deer.
Probably the coolest and somewhat eerie sights on the trails are the chimneys. Back in the 1950’s they were going to turn the area into a resort and built several guesthouses. They ran out of money and the houses eventually caved in and only the chimneys and some of the foundation remain. the trees hand weeds have taken over and the chimneys look like ruins now.
Pros: It’s right off the highway and is in the surrounded by the city so it’s a nice break and gives you the impression you are deep in the woods. It’s part of history. Lots of wildlife, a cave to explore and the chimneys are really photogenic.
Cons: Bugs, the circular trails can be confusing and you may spend more time hiking than planned. The trails can be disorienting.
Overall it’s a nice trail and I would definitely show it off to my hiking friends who come into town.
Great article. Was fascinated by the part about the spiders. You have a very smart dog. 🙂
Thank you. I was so afraid they would get in my hair. I spent like 20 minutes in the shower when i got home. Yes, Juju is pretty smart and hyper which is probably because shes normally so curious about everything.