Gardner Caves and more fun

 

Saturday we decided to go check out Gardner Caves.

 

We tried for the 12pm tour but it was full so we waited for the 12:45 one instead.  There was a nice picnic area so we had some snacks.

 

Here is our tour group.  In back is me, Marc, Kristen, Ryan and Ryan's Mom, Carol.  In front is Emma, Cruz, Kaydin, Olivia and Marcus.

 

We finally got to the caves.  It was 90 degrees outside but only 39 degrees in the cave...brr..

 

We learned about how the limestone formed and got to see fossils and learn about the ice age.

 

Marcus thought it was pretty cool

 

All the formations had their own unique characteristics.

 

This was our guide...Ranger Christiansen.  Funny story, Marc actually knew him!  He gave Marc a ride up Mt. Spokane once so he could meet his buddies to mountain bike. 

 

We climbed down a total of 500 feet!  The kids did great!

 

Behind the cave was a trail that lead to Canada.  So we hiked down the trail and went into another country!  It was only 1/2 mile away.

 

Can you see the border line up the mountain in the background?

 

Emma was excited to be so close to another country.

 

 

Warning...we couldn't stay though...we had to head back.

 

There was some fresh water...Marcus got the first drink.

 

Emma next...

 

Then Olivia.  This was the coolest tour ever...we were so glad we did it.

 

We headed back to the cabin and of course Marcus did some more swimming.

 

Steve agreed to hang out with Marcus while he swam.  The rule for all kids was they must have a life jacket on and an adult with them at all times on the dock. 

 

Thanks Steve for having us out...we had a blast!!!