Hugden Cave
Hugden Cave is closed from September 1- May 1 for hibernating bats
Cave Permits
Hugden Cave is closed from September 1- May 1 for hibernating bats. Access to Hugden Cave and the approach trail requires a permit from the Southeastern Cave Conservancy (SCCi). You can apply for a permit free of charge through this link, or the button below. To obtain a permit, an account must be set up with SCCi through this link.
Trailhead and Parking
The parking area is a pull off along Highway 41. The trailhead is roughly 800 feet westward on the left hand side of Highway 41 (the side of the road opposite of the river). The trail meanders 0.7 miles to the mouth of the cave. There is an informational kiosk at the pull off with a map and additional information.
Safety and Stewardship
Please follow all safety protocols when spelunking at Hugden Cave. You can find important information on caving safety from this link. Also, read the cave description below to be prepared for the cave.
Please remember, Hugden Cave contains a fragile ecosystem. To help us keep the cave healthy and thriving, follow leave no trace principles. Removing, moving, or altering any plants, animals, or rocks is strictly prohibited.
Cave Description
“Hugden is primarily a low, wet crawl cave with two waterfall rooms and one dry breakdown room. The final room in the cave rewards visitors with a relaxing waterfall splashing into a pool of water, a collection of cave pearls, and several flowstone formations. During rainy weather, the low wet crawls will fill up with water, and a group's ability to access the rest of the cave is dependent on water level at the entrance restriction.
Space is limited in this cave so visitors should be prepared to drag or push a backpack through most of the cave. Getting wet during your trip is unavoidable, please prepare and dress appropriately when entering the cave. Individuals with any degree of claustrophobia are discouraged from visiting this cave.”
“During heavy rain, the low wet crawls will fill up with water with no alternate exit. The cave has a lot of mudstone in it which is not very stable and large falling rocks are possible.”
Description by our Hugden Cave Preserve Manager Jeremy Rardin
