Monday, April 16, 2012

Side Views: The Caverns of Lake Shasta

An interesting side trip from the San Francisco to Seattle drive two years ago is Lake Shasta. Just off Redding, this man-made lake features the Lake Shasta Caverns, an amazing underground marvel with impressive limestone formations. Definitely unique, and a must-see when in Redding. 





A short ride aboard a catamaran across the tranquil waters of Lake Shasta is an experience in itself.


After a short boat ride and a bus ride up a steep hill, you are finally at the entrance to the caverns.


A convenient path is carved along the route, with lights to help you navigate the entire underground trail.


The beautiful limestone formations were formed by water, shaping the underground network for over 200 million years. And the natural process continues to shape the limestone, with impressive stalactites, stalagmites and flowstones.   


Each turn on the path reveals even more intricate formations, and the sound of water drops provide a rhythmic pace as you follow the trail.


One can't help but be amazed at how water can transform limestone into intricate shapes and patterns.


The view at the entrance to the caverns, a nice way to cap an amazing underground tour.

Check out some good eats on the road trip at my previous post, just clink the link http://dude4food.blogspot.com/2011/03/thousand-miles.html.

Dude for Food is now on Facebook, check out the FB Page for regular updates on good eats and amazing places. Better yet, click "Like" and enjoy the ride...just look for the FB "Like" widget on the right sidebar.

2 comments:

  1. I do remember visiting caverns once, not sure if it was in this same place. I know I still have not forgotten the difference between stalactites and stalagmites! I am sure this was a fun tour. Amazing photography here, thanks for sharing!

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    Replies
    1. Hi Tina, thanks! This was an amazing side trip, in addition to stalagmites and stalactites, I got to know about columns, soda straws and flowstones! Great to hear from you Tina!

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