Russell Cave is part of the national parks system and is located in the rural community of Bridgeport, Ala. It is in the northeast corner of Alabama, just south of the Tennessee state border.

Once home to prehistoric peoples, the cave offers a look at the daily life of early North American inhabitants from 6500 B.C. to 1650 A.D. The cave shelter archaeological site contains the most complete record of prehistoric cultures in the Southeast, according to the National Park Service.

Hours: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CDT seven days a week, year-round except for New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

Distance: Forty to 45 miles from Chattanooga. Take Interstate 24 west to Kimball exit 152, follow U.S. Highway 72 west about nine miles, turn right on County Road 75. Go one mile and turn right on County Road 98 for four miles to the park entrance.

Estimated fuel cost: At $4 per gallon, about $8 one way.

What’s worthwhile: See demonstrations of authentic Native American culture and life at the annual Native American festival, view artifacts and reproductions of items found in the cave shelter. Nature hikes along the Alabama Birding Trail. Expect to spend about two hours to tour the cave, visit the museum and view educational videos. Only a drink machine is available.

Admission: Free. Reservations requested two weeks in advance for groups of 20 or more.

For the kids: Rangers give demonstrations of early inhabitants’ tools and weapons. See the flintknapping method of making a spearpoint or knife, and how to make a fire using natural materials and a bow drill. Take a turn at using a pump drill and grinding corn. Demonstrations are available upon request and as staffing allows. Calling in advance for a reservation for a demonstration is recommended.

Information: www.nps.gov/ruca/index.htm, Gilbert H. Grosvenor Visitor Center (256) 495-2672.

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