Take a Hike at Dames Cave and Peace Cave
Those who dare to take those steep steps underneath the earth and into the unknown world which holds so many mysteries are not only seen as adventurous explorers but have an opportunity to witness how nature works.
These caves are referred to as karst caves. Karst described by National Geographic is ” a type of landscape made of limestone, dolomite, and gypsum rocks that slowly dissolve in the presence of water with a slightly acidic tinge.”
It is amazing to see the works of nature and how much beauty can be underneath this great forest. To witness such a small wonder like Dames and Peace Cave helps to develop a physical understanding of our world and an appreciation of its complexity and beauty.
“We look throughout the forest for caves,” said Derek Penkava. Penkava and his son are from Brooksville, Florida. “The caves are neat; it’s a neat natural wonder.”
“Even though it’s been people-ized, these are really the coolest,” said ten year old Billy Penkava.
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Just less than a mile east of south Lecanto highway on Trail 22, there are a few caves for young and old to explore. Although vandalism has sadly branded these caves with spray paint and trash, some can see beyond the graffiti and beer cans.
“Those that vandalize just see these as holes in the ground, as for us nature enthusiasts; we see these as natural wonders,” Donald Herden Jr. said.
Here are some links about caves in Florida:
http://www.karstconservancy.org/
https://www.floridastateparks.org/park/Florida-Caverns
Remember… when you venture out please be careful and aware of wildlife surroundings. Always have a backpack with necessities, such as water, bug spray, medicine, snacks, and charged cell phone for example. Never go alone or go off the trail unless you are with an experienced hiker. Please respect these areas and don’t leave trash behind. As always, you venture, explore, hike and/or dive at your own risk.
Have you been hiking? We would love to read your stories and see your photos! Please feel free send them to editor@hernandosun.com or post them on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/hernandosun352/?fref=nf