Stephen’s Gap Cave is one of the many reasons Alabama is known as “Alabama the Beautiful”. You’ve probably arrived here because you have seen the famous photos of “that cave in Alabama with the light rays” and you’re curious where exactly it is and how to access it. If that’s the case, welcome, you have come to the right place! And if that is not the case, you are in for a sweet surprise! It doesn’t matter how you got here, all that matters is when you are finished reading this post, you will be ready to head out on an incredible adventure hidden in the middle of nowhere, AL.
Check out what to pack for a day hike for gear recs!
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About Stephen's Gap Cave
Stephen’s Gap Cave is one of the most photographed caves in the Southeast. Hikers and Cavers come from all over the U.S. to experience the incredible light rays that descend into the pit from the mouth of the cave. It is a short and easy hike to get to the cave, but there are some very important details that you need to know before heading out on this adventure.
How to Get a Permit for Stephen's Gap Cave
Stephen’s Gap is managed by The Southeastern Cave Conservancy Inc. (SCCi). The SCCi is a nonprofit that protects and preserves the beloved caves of the southeast. They protect 170+ caves on 35 preserves across 7 states. To access one of these preserves, you must register your information with the SCCI and gain a permit. The permitting system is easy to navigate and 100% free of charge.
Because of the popularity of the Stephen’s Gap Cave Preserve, I would suggest booking your permit at least 2-3 weeks in advance (especially if you plan to go on a weekend).
Where is Stephen's Gap Cave
Stephen’s Gap is located in a very small town about 30 miles East of Huntsville, AL called “Woodville”. The trailhead can be accessed via google maps by typing in “Stephens Gap Callahan Cave Preserve”, but for convenience, here is the address-
8408 Co Rd 30, Woodville, AL 35776
When to Visit Stephen's Gap Cave
You can access Stephen’s Gap year-round. It is important to note that the ideal conditions for exploring the cave is on a nice and sunny day! This will allow the light rays to shine through the pit. Avoid going when it is raining, the trail is already slippery and can be very dangerous.
The Trail to Stephen's Gap Cave
The trail is 1.4 mi out and back with roughly 300 ft elevation. It is heavily wooded and can be muddy after a good rain. It is important to wear some closed toe shoes with good traction as it can be slippery at times. Also, keep an eye out for poison ivy! Long pants wouldn’t be a bad idea.
The Cave
After about 0.7 mi you will come upon a memorial remembering someone who lost their life while exploring the cave. Let this be a very somber reminder to be cautious of your footing and respect the boundry signs that are placed. When you see this memorial, you will know that you have arrived at the cave. Just behind and to the right is the opening to the TOP of the cave. To the LEFT will be the opening to the MOUTH of the cave.
Information for Hikers
From the memorial, follow the sign to the left, pointing you to the mouth of the cave. It is a short, steep trail that can be a bit scrambly at times, but nothing that an experienced hiker cannot handle.
“Optional but Helpful”
- Trekking Poles
- Satellite Rescue Device
- Camera/GoPro
- Light jacket
“Mouth” of the cave/Hikers entrance
Information for Cavers/Experienced Climbers
The opening to the top of the cave is just behind the memorial. There are numerous boundry signs, warning you of the opening, but please remember to be extra careful as it is always slippery and many accidents have happened here.
Beta: The cave is about 150 ft from top to bottom. We used a 60m rope, single strand method and were fine. There was a nice solid tree that we used for an anchor. We were able to rappel into the cave, and then hike out of the hiker’s entrance, BUT there is not necessarily an easy way to do this, depending on your skill level. It is imperative that you have the knowledge, skills, and equipment to be able to ascend your rope in order to exit the cave if need be.
“Must Haves”
- Static Rope
- Harness
- Anchor options
- Rappel device
- Backup safety system (prusik/ect.)
- Rope ascension system
- Helmet
- Locking carabiners (always bring extra)
- Water
“Optional but Helpful”
- Satellite rescue device
- Rappel gloves
- Light jacket
- Gopro
Helpful Tips for Visiting Stephen's Gap Cave
We lived in Alabama for 20 years and had NO IDEA that this hidden gem existed. In sharing this information, we hope to inspire you to not only visit the cave, but to do so safely and with enough information to know what you’re getting yourself into. With a little preperation and research, you will be ready to enjoy this little slice of heaven for yourself! And with all sincerety, please remember to follow the principles of “leave no trace” so that we may all get to enjoy this area for the foreseeable future!
- There is no service on the trail.
- Inside the cave is extremely dark, you will need a headlamp and/or flashlight.
- It can get quite chilly in the cave, bring a light jacket if you get cold easily.
- Don’t underestimate the Alabama humidity, bring PLENTY of water.
- Dogs are allowed on leash, but please be extra careful if you choose to bring yours.
- BUG SPRAY IS A NECESSITY!
- The rocks are always moist and therefore very slippery. Please be careful with your footing.
- Try to go when the sun is at its peak, so you get those beautiful rays shining straight through!
Happy Caving!
