Exploring the Mystique of Vermont's Devil's Den Sea Caves
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Chapter 1: The Enigmatic Donahue Sea Caves
Nestled in Burlington, Vermont, the Donahue Sea Caves, often referred to as the Devil’s Den, are found along Long Pond in Arthur Park, bordering the wetlands of the Intervale. Accessible solely on foot during winter when the pond freezes, I've long wanted to explore these captivating caves since I first learned of their existence a few years back. This week, I finally embarked on my visit.
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Section 1.1: Journey to Arthur Park
The trailhead for Arthur Park is located behind a bus stop adjacent to several condominiums, directly across North Avenue from Burlington High School. It might seem peculiar to find such an ancient natural marvel in an urban setting, yet Vermont often surprises us with its hidden wonders, even within more developed areas.
As I ventured down a snowy trail and across the ice of the pond, I soon discovered the keyhole-shaped entrance to the cave, sculpted by glaciers long ago. Unfortunately, the water inside the cave had not yet frozen, limiting my exploration to the entrance and the left side.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Cave's Historical Significance
Historically, access to the cave was not limited to the winter months. Before the construction of the Route 127 Beltway in the mid-20th century, this area was part of the Winooski River delta wetlands connected to Lake Champlain. It was possible to walk directly to the cave.
For thousands of years, Indigenous communities, engaging in farming and fishing along the Winooski River, utilized the Sea Caves for shelter. The caves provided a climate-controlled environment, ideal for gatherings and storage.
In winter, families would gather in the caves to escape the cold, while in summer, they served as a vital storage space for essential goods, including dried fish and corn, significant items traded by the Winooskiok Abenaki community. As noted by Burlington writer Levi Smith in 1907, “In few places does nature reveal herself in so many and such diverse aspects as here at the Devil’s Den.”
This area, while potentially muddy and challenging at certain times of the year, is still captivating, especially during winter. During warmer months, kayaking may allow closer access to the cave.
Chapter 2: The Mystique Behind the Name
The name "Devil's Den," attributed by colonial settlers, raises intriguing questions about its origins and connections to Indigenous peoples. It's possible that this name reflects the prejudices of 18th-century European settlers, who often labeled sacred spaces of Native Americans with terms associated with evil.
The first video titled "Why Devil's Den Beats Other Florida Springs" explores the unique allure of the Devil's Den, comparing it to other natural springs and highlighting its distinctive features.
The second video, "Scuba Diving The DEVIL'S DEN Prehistoric Spring In Florida - Ep 112," takes viewers on an underwater adventure, showcasing the stunning beauty and rich history of the site.
Section 2.1: Geological Origins
The formation of the cave is still debated among experts. While once believed to be shaped by the Champlain Sea’s waves, it is now thought that glaciers and erosion played a more significant role in its creation.
According to University of Vermont geologist Stephen Wright, dripping water from the bedrock likely dissolved the rock and formed the cave, which was subsequently exposed by glacial erosion. Naturalist Sean Beckett posits that the cave was carved by an ancient Winooski River channel cutting through sand.
In any case, despite the various names and theories surrounding its creation, the Donahue Sea Caves remain a captivating and relatively hidden treasure just off the beaten path of Burlington, Vermont.
