Compared to our rustic accommodations in Big Bend NP, the Best Western Sure Stay in Sonora seemed luxurious. We had a TV, microwave, refrigerator, wi-fi and a hairdryer! The waffle maker at breakfast even boasted Texas-shaped waffles.

We arrived at Caverns of Sonora in time for the first tour that began at 9:45. Raphael, a college student from Texas Tech, led our group of 11 inside the cave. As we walked through the tunnels of rock walls, he explained that the cave was discovered in 1905 the owner’s dog followed a raccoon inside the entrance. However, it wasn’t until the 1950’s that several explorers traversed a previously blocked section and discovered another five miles of the cave system. Plans were soon undertaken to put in walkways and electric lighting and the caverns opened to the public in 1960. (more…)