Holiday Candlelight Tours of Montana’s Lewis and Clark Caverns

'Twas the holiday season, and no, not a tavern, you want to spend some time in a cavern.

The bats are all hung by stalactites with care, waiting for candlelight to brighten the air.

With limestone galore and no need to be brave, yell "Merry Christmas to all" in an echoing cave.

And...that's all I got. Except to tell you that if you're looking for a unique Montana holiday day trip, or night trip, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks invites you to hitch up your sleighs and head for Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park.

The park will again host holiday candlelight tours of the entire developed cave route. This special event allows visitors to see and enjoy the caverns by the warm, festive glow of candle lanterns.

Participants must make reservations in advance. Tours will be offered from December 17 through 19, and again from December 21 through 23. The starting times of these tours will vary, depending on park staffing for the day. However, all tours will actually be during the day, with a portion of the two-hour walking tour being outdoors along trails that may have snow cover.

Park staff will provide tour guides, candles, lanterns, and hot drinks. The cost for this unique event is $25 for visitors ages 15 and older, and $15 for those ages 14 and younger. All participants must be at least 5 years of age. Nonresident visitors must pay an $8-per-vehicle entrance fee as they enter the park.

Reservations can be made starting this Monday, November 29, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. by calling 406-287-3541. Participants are encouraged to be prepared for winter conditions on roads and trails at the park. Vehicles with front-wheel drive, four-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive are recommended. Don’t forget to dress in layers, including a hat, gloves, and waterproof boots with good tread.

And to all, a good tour!