I am always confused about the difference between stalactites and stalagmites, which one goes up and which one down. I looked it up…again.
The most common stalactites are a type of formation that hangs from the ceiling of caves. They form through the deposition of calcium carbonate and other minerals. The solution slowly travels through the rock until it reaches the edge and then drips down.
Stalagmites rise from the floor of the cave as the mineral filled water drips from above.
We were able to renew our acquaintance with these amazing structures in Mammoth Cave in Western Australia. The region from Busselton to Augusta is one of Australia’s most cave-rich areas. Mammoth Cave is on the aptly named Caves Road in the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park.
Come for a walk through the cave. It is well named. It is huge…500 metres long and 30 metres deep. Steps lead down into the cave and a timber path winds through it. It is well lit to enable the stunning structures to be seen.
The path eventually leads to the 170 steps that take you out of the cave into the sunlight and the beautiful Marri forest.
A kookaburra sat waiting on a high vantage point for a meal to appear.
More steps….
Mammoth Cave is stunning. Don’t miss it if you are able to drag yourselves away from the many wineries and restaurants in the area.