On Sunday March 28th, a group of GSOC’s intrepid explorers went to our neighboring Hellertown to explore Lost River Caverns. Caves are a unique geological feature of the Lehigh Valley. There are over 30 known, and many unknown, caves across the Lehigh Valley. Most are under homes or businesses, including one on Lehigh’s campus between Dravo and Drinker House!

Three caves in the Lehigh Valley are open to the public. Crystal Caves, Onyx Cave, and Lost River Caverns (which is the closest to Lehigh). During our tour, we learned the unique and interesting history of this cave. As early as the 1900s, there is evidence that the cave was used by Lehigh Valley residents. During the 1920s (Prohibition era), Moonshiners hid illicit alcohol in the caves to keep it cool and away from authorities. In the mid-late 1900s, the cave was even used by fraternities at Lehigh University to initiate new members!

Overall we had a great time exploring the caves, learning the history, and exploring the quirky gift shop after our tour. Hope you can join us on our next visit!