Natural Bridge Caverns

Natural Bridge Caverns is off I-35 exit 175, then 8 mi. w. on Natural Bridge Caverns Rd. (FM 3009). Determined to prove the existence of caverns beneath a 60-foot limestone bridge, four St. Mary's University students embarked on an unforgettable adventure in 1960. During their fourth trek they discovered 2 miles of underground corridors.

The guided 60-minute Discovery Tour takes visitors 180 feet below the surface through a half-mile of rooms and passages. Stunning formations range from the 40-foot King's Throne and Watchtower to tiny, delicate soda straws. Other highlights include Purgatory Creek, Sherwood Forest and the Natural Bridge.

Lasting 60 minutes, the Hidden Wonders Tour explores two underground areas adorned with soda straws, cave ribbon and other natural phenomena. A high-tech lighting network uses both light and darkness to intensify views—at one point total blackness envelops visitors. This tour takes visitors through the Hidden Cavern into the Ballroom and then into the Box Canyon for a sound and light show. When it is time to leave, a belt-assisted transport (BAT) will carry explorers to the surface.

Adventure tours involving spelunking—hiking, crawling and rappelling are offered by reservation. Other activities include gem and fossil mining, Twisted Trails which stands six stories tall and features seven zip rails, and the AMAZEn' Ranch Roundup maze. Weight and height restrictions apply for Twisted Trails. Comfortable walking shoes are required for cavern tours.

Comfortable walking shoes are required.

Guided tours are available. Pet friendly (call for restrictions/fees.). Picnicking is permitted. Food is available. Time: Allow 1 hour, 30 minutes minimum.