Last stop for the day is Russell Cave National Monument. This is an interesting area, in that the National Park Service does not allow much exploration of the cave these days, beyond a short boardwalk leading to the large cave entrance. Russell Cave has proven to be a treasure hoard of archaeological and anthropological artifacts over the last century. After doing some reading and chatting with the ranger, it seems this large cave system has yielded evidence of human habitation dating back over ten thousand years.
The short walk to the main entrance passes by a sinkhole, which is now filled with water and then twists around a hillside to arrive at the cave entrance. A quick-moving stream pours out of the main chamber, while to the right and slightly above the river a large overhang protects the dig-site. Apparently, this area provided shelter to indigenous peoples for thousands of years. I would love to explore the cave further, but I respect the need to preserve it and all of its history. I'll have to settle for this cursory visit.
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