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(518) 494-2283

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Natural Stone Bridge and Caves Park

(518) 494-2283
535 Stone Bridge Road
Pottersville , NY 12860
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Summer: Hike self-guided tour & explore LARGEST cave entrance in East, waterfalls, gorge, caves. Also guided adventure tours, gemstone mining, disc golf, climbing walls, dino dig, simulated mines, & extensive rock shop. Winter: snowshoe trails/tour.

The massive stone bridge arch - the largest marble cave entrance in the east - dominates this spectacular display of Adirondack geology. Originally named Ponte de Dios (Bridge of God) by explorers and later described in Morse's Geography of 1790, the stone bridge has captivated visitors for over 200 years. Unlike the slow forming limestone caverns, these marble caves were rapidly formed during the last ice age by an unusual East-West trending fault which exposed a layer of ancient marble to raging acidic floodwaters from melting glaciers. Take a walking stick, map, and camera and set out on a self-guided, above-ground tour over a natural stone step nature trail and experience up-close the many unique rock features in the marble gorge, such as potholes, grottos, and mill site waterfalls. Descend into lighted surface caves with raging waterfalls or tranquil dark pools.

Cavers are currently completing a survey of the cave systems and the owners have developed an guided adventure tour to explore additional caves for those willing to crawl and get a bit dirty & then get rinsed off with the final cave float. The property continues to be managed by relatives of Jacob Van Benthuysen who received the site in the 1700's for Revolutionary War service.

Every year, new hands-on activities are added to enhance the park and educational experience. After exploring the caves, relax in one of our large family swings or enjoy homemade fudge in our wooded picnic areas. To learn more, see our Adirondack memories display or view a free PBS video describing the history and geology of the caves.

An extensive Rock Shop offers many fine crystals, gems, fossils and bookends. In addition, 8 diamond saws and 3 rock poppers are available to open Mexican geodes, each one a treasure with agate designs or crystals.

Other activities and fun for the kids include: Gemstone Mining, Gold Rush Mine, Crystal Quest Mine, Caveman Challenge Bouldering Wall, Stone Bridge Frisbee Golf Course, fish feeding, jewelry making, decorating walking sticks or uncovering ancient bones in our Dino Dig and our Butterfly Box Display. Food service includes a snack bar with sandwiches and drinks at the caves facility and full breakfast, lunch and > 40 flavors of soft ice-cream at our Rt 9 Stone Bridge Café.

Grills and pavilions are also available. The facilities are a great site for birthday parties or corporate events (inquire for special pricing or after hours availability).

Cabins are also available for rent.

NEW in 2010 was the introduction of Snowshoe Tours with views of the stone bridge cave entrance, large glacial erratic boulders, ledges and waterfalls and are available from mid Dec - March (weather dependent).

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from Monmouth Junction, NJ wrote on
Excellent place to visit with family, friends and kids. We had really nice time over there. Such a great family owned park. Staffs are awesome. Worth every penny you spend there.
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wrote on
Totally impressed and spent hours exploring. We had lunch in the picnic area, walked, hiked, climbed and mined. Worth every penny. Will be back to do the cave tour. Thanks for all of your hard work!
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wrote on
We have come to this area for 35 years and have lived here full time for the last 6 years. We had never visited the caves. We had company in mid-August and took them there. Wow! Have we been missing out! It was a great day. We were so impressed with the trails and how well maintained and safe there were. Your staff does a superb job!
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wrote on
My wife and I were there during the earthquake. Nice place. We will be going back with more family.
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wrote on
Wow! I love bringing my class to the caves for our end of the year field trip! It is always a wonderful experience and the students love all of its attractions. The trail, the rock wall, and even the gem mining is a great hit. To top off a perfect trip we head down to the ice cream stand and have an extra special treat!
Thank you Dee and Greg for great times!!!
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wrote on
I've been visiting Stone Bridge & Caves since I was a child in the 70s. Starting in the mid 90s, I haven't let a single summer go by without at least one visit. Now that I live locally, I always upgrade my initial visit to a season pass (for very little $!) and my 7 year-old and I visit several times each season. There is always something new to see, which makes each visit different. If you take the time to read the signs, it's amazing to learn about the history of the caves (and the water levels!). Everything is very relaxed, unlike other tourist spots that are crowded - where you feel rushed. Even on days where the parking lot is full, you can find some space and time to yourself to admire the absolute beauty of the place. And I can't forget to mention the shops - so many beautiful things at reasonable prices! And if you opt for the geode popping and/or cutting @ the rock shop - the kids are always astounded! And they have something beautiful to take home with them! I've been twice this season and will be back before they close for the year!
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wrote on
Natural Stone Bridge and Caves Park is an awesome place to take family and friends. Nature and fun all in one. You won't be disappointed!!! We Love it and go every year!
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wrote on
Great mplace & family. They answered all our questions on formation and history. Even the great kids they hire are educated about the caves and Adirondacks( all local kids). I can't wait for a snowy winter to go snowshoeing, it'll be awsome.
Thanks Cavemen & Women
Steve & Family
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wrote on
The caves are an amazing piece of nature worth everyones look. The staff is knowledgable and friendly. The outdoors is so good for the soul. Take in the amazing views as you try to even imagine what has naturally occurred in this area over 100s of years, it's there before your eyes.
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wrote on
Have been going to the caves for many years, even just to pan for gold and gems. Always had a great time because it changes with every season.
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wrote on
what a great family run natural spot to visit in upstate new york
over the last 30 years i have seen great imporvemtn on each visit and cant wait till my next visit
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wrote on
Great place to take the kids
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wrote on
Our trip to Natural Stone Bridge and Caves Park was the high point of our trip to Lake George! What a beautiful facility, great trail and incredible caves. Can't wait to take the cave swimming tour when our youngest is a bit older! The rock shop was amazing and the look of awe on Abby's face when the helper cracked open her geode was priceless. Our favorite vacation pics were taken here - LOVED IT!
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wrote on
I've been here several times and have always had a great time every time. We have only experienced the self-guided tour but I hear that the adventure tour is a lot of fun and we will probably try that when my kids are older.
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wrote on
I love Natural Stone Bridges and Caves! I have been here a few times with my kids (ages 4 and 1) and they love to look around and explore the bridges and different rock formations. For me, it's one of the most peaceful and serene spots in the southern Adirondacks. I have not yet been this year but do plan to go back before they close for the season.
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wrote on
Excellent place to visit with familiy and friends. My two boys loved walking the trails and exploring the caves with their grandfather! Breath taking views and the best part was the gem mining at the end! We had a great family day and one that will be cherished for a lifetime! Thanks again for all your efforts.
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wrote on
What a terrific adventure and magnificently preserved piece of American history. Have been frequenting the caves since about age four and have made several trips back each year for the past 30 years! Love brining first timers to the caves! Superb customer service (Greg and Dee) top customer's expectations year after year. Can't wait to see what they have planned for us in 2012!
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wrote on
Beautiful natural wonder. We enjoy checking out rock shops and this one is really special. Lots of different activities for all ages.
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wrote on
Yet another location where families can find New York at its finest. If you are looking to get your family outside and enjoy nature, you will not regret visiting. I was a bit afraid of the idea of exploring caves, but now I'm hooked. We hope to bring a Boy Scout group with us next time.
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wrote on
We visited the Natural Stone Bridge and Caves a few years back during our annual vacation in Lake George. Pictures can not do this place justice. Awesome. Great gift shop, friendly staff and something for everyone...from the little ones to adults.
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wrote on
We have been visiting the caves several times a yr for the past 10 years. It is one of the most spectacular and tranquil places I have ever experienced. What makes it even more enjoyable is the friendly staff who are always available to answer questions or just give a friendly "hello". The grounds, walkways, trails, bridges, etc. are kept impeccably clean and clear of debris and trash. I like the fact that they allow food and drinks so we don't need to spend money on "their" food every time we go, although they have a foodstand if you so desire. They have added extras over the yrs which my daughter loves! They have mining for gems, a butterfly sanctuary, extreme frisbee, among other things. They also have an area with an informational video playing and an area for kids to "dig" for dinosaur bones. The last thing I want to mention is that my daughter collects rocks and gems and for the last several years we have taken her collection with us and the staff goes above and beyond by spending time with us identifying her rocks. They do this with a smile on their face and have even given us baggies with stickers to label her treasures! I can't say enough good things and I highly recommend Natural Stone Bridge and Caves!
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wrote on
Natural Stone and Bridge was a fantastic family trip. I could not believe such a wonder was basically in our backyard!!! I would not hestitate to visit a second, third or fourth time, as I am sure nature is always changing the dynamics of the scene!!!
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wrote on
Best tourist attraction we've been to since we moved here 4 years ago! The price is right and you couldn't spend a few hours (though I think I could stay longer) in a prettier place. We went in early summer but look forward to going back in the fall (it should be beautiful) and for snowshoeing in the winter. Heck, I think we may buy a season pass! Great family spot!
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wrote on
The Natural Stone Bridge is an awesome place to visit. I came from Quebec with my daughter and frankly, it was well worth the 3 hours drive! A unique experience with the crystals mine and breathaking views through the walking ride. Next year we intend to take the year pass :)
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from Bolton Landing, NY wrote on
The Natural Stone Bridge and Caves is a "must do" when visiting the Adirondacks. It is a great place to bring the family and the staff could not be any nicer!! It is unbelievable how beautiful it is there!
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wrote on
I think this place is great. Not only is it beautiful, there's lots to do, especially if you have kids. A nice little gift shop, gem stone mining for kids, dinosaur dig, frisbee golf and other things. For the big kids, and adults, there are guided adventure tours that take you off the beaten path and into the caves. I was there recently and overheard a foreigner tell their spouse that it was better than going to New York City. I highly recommend Natural Stone Bridge and Caves!
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wrote on
Its a great day trip. Lots of fun, great scenery, great photo opportunities! I had a blast, and have considered turning this into an annual trip
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wrote on
I love this place! The kids love the mining and as a family we enjoy exploring the caves. I just hope someday we get the guts to try adventure tour someday.
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wrote on
We really enjoyed Natural Stone Bridges and Caves. It was a great way to really enjoy the outdoors for several hours with the kids. The trails are not too challenging, which is a plus if traveling with kids or older adults. It was quite beautiful, lots of photo ops and very close to the LG area. We have driven to Ausable Chasm before but quite honestly, the drive is way too long and my husband gets vertigo, so it was a bit too steep and precarious for him. We found Natural Stone Bridges and Caves to be more suited for us and our kids. As far as the admission goes, you have to realize you ARE in a tourist area and there is an admission for everything. We did not feel ripped off...use the coupons for extra savings.
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wrote on
Tourist trap. This place charges almost $15/ person and it's maybe worth $2. Not worth the trip
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Natural Stone Bridge and Caves Park
responded on Tuesday, August 30, 2011 at 11:59 AM
Note: The ticket prices are actually $12.98 for Adults, $8.50 for children (ages 5-12) and 4 and under are free. Most folks come in with $1.00 off coupon (available on the website). See the 24 reviews on Tripadvisor: http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g48442-d632161-Reviews-Natural_Stone_Bridge_and_Caves-Pottersville_Lake_George_Region_New_York.html

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