Caving Basics

"Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but carefully placed footprints, kill nothing but time"

Caving requires a certain amount of equipment and experience. If you have never explored a wild cave before, we recommend that you contact a grotto member to help you obtain the necessary equipment and training. Before entering a wild cave, you should have at least three people and the following equipment:

• A helmet with a chin strap
• A headlamp and two spare sources of light
• Sturdy boots
• Warm clothing and gloves
• Knee pads

Other tips to remember:

• Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back
• Most of the caves in the region are privately owned; if you do not know the access requirements, contact a grotto member
• If the cave contains vertical pits, you will also need the proper type of rope, vertical gear, and training; never attempt to descend or ascend a rope by hand.
  

NSS Guide to Responsible Caving