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Tumbling Rock Cave Preserve
4.8 ★★★★★ 163 Google reviews · Running trail in Fackler, Alabama · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- 4 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Tumbling Rock Cave Preserve's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Wild cave system, part of the Southeastern Cave Conservancy.
What runners say about Tumbling Rock Cave Preserve
“This is a magical cave filled with beautiful formations, stalactites and stalagmites, crystals, and sparkly mineral deposits.”
My group loved how you have to go up a little hole flowing with water to see the topless dome! This is definitely a great cave to take beginners. In most areas it seems just like an underground hike. The formations and uniqueness of each area are top knotch! I appreciate the care put in to preserve this site.
What a phenomenal experience! There was an "open house" supported by experienced cavers this weekend, August 10th 2024. These volunteers outfitted us with helmets and lamps (very necessary), explained a few things, then off we went!
This is a magical cave filled with beautiful formations, stalactites and stalagmites, crystals, and sparkly mineral deposits. The creek running through the cave keeps the air fresh. In one big room after the elephant foot, we just sat with our lights out and enjoyed the peaceful dark. It is a cave for active folks.
We loved exploring this cave with the kids. We just did about a mile but loved it. I thought it would more more cold than it was, and was glad that I didn’t bring my jacket in there
Trail conditions & character
“This is a magical cave filled with beautiful formations, stalactites and stalagmites, crystals, and sparkly mineral deposits.”
“And finally, besides a helmet & light, bring extra lighting (flashlights), wear boots and knee pads, and clothing you won't mind getting wet and muddy!”
“And finally, besides a helmet & light, bring extra lighting (flashlights), wear boots and knee pads, and clothing you won't mind getting wet and muddy!”
Plan your run at Tumbling Rock Cave Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- Distance4 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- LightingRunners report lights on the path — useful for pre-dawn and after-work miles. Lighting and opening hours are separate things, so check both.
- Websitepermits.scci.org
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
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