Rafinesque Hall

The sound of flowing water can often be heard from this passage.

NPS Photo/ Thomas DiGiovannangelo

Quick Facts

Amenities

3 listed

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information - Ranger/Staff Member Present, Scenic View/Photo Spot

Coming into Rafinesque on the left is a metal tower. This tower is collecting environmental data, such as temperature, wind speed, humidity levels, etc. Scientist are trying to determine how the weather outside and tourism interact with the natural cave ecosystem. How do you think tourism might effect the climate of the cave? 

This chamber is named for Constantine Samuel Rafinesque, “Kentucky's eccentric naturalist”. Here, you have the opportunity to see the effects of water on the limestone walls at lookout mountain, see images of some of the cave inhabitants, and learn about a mushroom growing venture gone wrong. The chamber branches off to right and to left. The continuations do not go very far before they taper and become impassable. Take a moment to look around. This is the turn around point for this journey.