🔎 Speleology Spotlight Tour Brings Cave Geology to Life in McMinnville

Cumberland Caverns is hosting a special guided tour led by a geologist as part of the Tennessee STEAM Festival, offering visitors a rare chance to explore the science behind one of Tennessee’s most remarkable underground landscapes. For residents and families across the Sequatchie Valley and surrounding counties, this event bridges education and adventure in a way that connects the region’s unique geology to hands-on learning.

📍 Expert-Led Tour Focuses on Cave Science

On Saturday, October 24th at 12:00 PM, Cumberland Caverns General Manager and Cave Geologist Nicole Ridlen will lead the “Speleology Spotlight” tour, a special one-time opportunity designed to help visitors understand the geological processes that shaped the cave system. 🪨 Ridlen holds a Master’s degree in Geology and has trained the cave’s tour guides, bringing deep expertise to the experience.

The tour promises to connect the landscape visible above ground with the geological forces at work below, answering questions about how caves form and evolve over time. Visitors are encouraged to come curious and prepared with their own questions about cave science and the natural history of the region.

🎓 Part of Tennessee STEAM Festival

This tour is part of the broader Tennessee STEAM Festival, which emphasizes science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics education. For families and learners in the area, the event offers a tangible way to engage with earth science in an authentic, underground setting-turning a natural wonder into a classroom. ✨

🎟️ How to Attend

Reservations are required and can be made at CumberlandCaverns.com. Visitors should plan to arrive at Cumberland Caverns, located at 1437 Cumberland Caverns Road in McMinnville, Warren County. For more information, call (931) 668-4396 or visit the website.