*Nomination, pending review*

California Cavern was California's first show cave, discovered around 1849. Tours were soon being offered for the price of a pinch of gold dust. This was the Gold Rush after all!

Early notable visitors included Mark Twain, Black Bart and John Muir who wrote about his visit in lyrical detail in his book, "The Mountains of California."

This horizontally-oriented cave meanders under the Sierra Foothills for almost a mile. The walk tour comprises only part of this length, and takes visitors through passageways of honey colored walls sculpted over a millennium, into formation adorned chambers. Each chamber has its own unique personality, which lends to the appeal, especially in the early days when different chambers were used as meeting places for different activities. The Bridal Chamber is a room decorated with lots of beautiful, white crystalline flow stones, and was actually used as a venue for wedding ceremonies.

Guides share the fascinating history and geology of this cave with visitors year round on 60 to 80-minute walking tours. In the wet season, visitors can see pools of water reflecting the crystalline formations overhead. In the dry season, an additional chamber becomes accessible and the tour extends into the Jungle Room which was discovered in 1980.

Besides walking tours, California Cavern offers extended wild caving expeditions by reservation only. All equipment and expertise is provided. Participants are set off in small groups to daringly explore the unlit and undeveloped areas of the cave.

Walking tours are available April through October, and weekends September through May. Weekday walking tours during September through May are available by appointment. Middle Earth and Mammoth Cave Expeditions are available in the dry season, generally July through January or February, by reservation only by calling 866.762.2837.

Fees: 2010 Fees: Walking tour - Adult $14.25 Child $7.15; Mammoth Cave Expedition - $130; Middle Earth Expedition $148