Bat Cave Preserve

The largest known granite fissure cave in North America, Bat Cave is home to the endangered Indiana bat. Bat Cave Preserve, near Lake Lure, is owned by The Nature Conservancy and is accessible only through the Conservancy's field trip program from June through mid-August. The cave itself is closed to the public at all times, but the hike through the preserve to reach the cave opening is a treat for nature-lovers.

Hikers trek a mile up a steep trail through the mature hardwood forest that cloaks the rugged slopes of Hickory Nut Gorge, and Carolina hemlock and chestnut oak forest are found on the cliff tops and ridgeline. The preserve has an abundance of spring wildflowers, including bloodroot, toothwort, trillium, and violets.
Upon reaching the cave, hikers are rewarded with Bat Cave's natural air conditioning--a cool moist draft that constantly pours from vents on the side of the large cave. The main chamber inside the cave is a dark cathedral more than 300 feet long and approximately 85 feet high. Bats hibernate inside during the winter.

Hours of Operation
The preserve is only open to the public through guided tours offered by The Nature Conservancy. Tours run at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Wednesdays and Saturdays from June 3 through August 15, 2008. The cave itself is closed to the public. Call  828-350-1431 to reserve space on a tour. 

Admission Fees
$10/adults; $5/children under 12 
*Prices are subject to change without notice & from what is listed on this website.

Location
Off Hwy. 9 between Bat Cave and Lake Lure. Next to the Apple House.

The Nature Conservancy
Mountains Office, NC Chapter
P.O. Box 17519
Asheville, NC 28816
828-350-1431
mtns_Volunteers@tnc.org
website