Caving can be a dangerous
sport! The total and unremitting absence
of light is a constant source of danger to those who explore the subterranean
world. The temperature of many caves can
cause hypothermia unless proper precautions are taken. The mud and the humid atmosphere create
slippery conditions underground and normal above ground climbing techniques are
not sufficient to insure a reasonable margin of safety in cave
exploration. Virgin or infrequently
visited caves almost invariably present problems of unstable rock and
treacherous hand and footholds.
Reasonable safety in caving can only be achieved through a combination
of proper attitude, good equipment, and training from those already well versed
in the specialized techniques of cave exploration. Some of the caves featured
have water in them and are affected by the weather. Please ask at Cave Central for the most up to
date information about any particular cave.
Speleofest personnel always are keeping an eye on the weather and know
the cave conditions. Furthermore, caves in the
guidebook are rated “horizontal” and/or “vertical”. It is understood that the caver knows what
this gear is comprised of when doing a horizontal or vertical cave. Vertical work may be rated either
medium/moderate or difficult. The nature
of vertical work, at the least is medium in difficulty. There aren’t any novice vertical caves. Under the heading gear required, it is
understood that the vertical caver knows what gear is exactly required. Also, be aware of your main light source when
in wet caves as the newer LED lights are not all waterproof. Here Are The Rules Each trip is limited to a specific
number of people and is available only to those who have signed up. Eligibility
of participants on all field trips is determined by the leaders of that trip.
Their decision is final and is not subject to appeal. All caves and public
meeting places are considered smoke-free environments. Alcohol is not permitted
in public places and anyone found to be intoxicated or impaired for any reason
will not be allowed to participate in any of the field trips. What you bring and what you need at Spelelofest
depends on what trip(s) you plan to take. Each trip is given a rating. You must
have the required equipment for all levels of trips you sign up for. The guides
can remove you from their trip if you do not meet the equipment requirements. The caves for Speleofest
are rated under the following headings: Easy, Medium (Moderate), and Difficult. Difficulty Ratings Easy Easy is defined as a novice
type of cave. Minor obstacle work
encountered (climbs, scrambling up and over, etc.) No vertical rope work. Cave can be wet although water will not be
over two feet deep. Cave could still
flood if so noted in the description. EQUIPMENT REQUIRED:
Non-Insulated Coveralls or layers of clothing that can be adjusted according to
climate conditions you'll encounter both above and below ground. Boots that
cover the ankles, kneepads, gloves, a hard hat with chin strap, 3 light sources with one mounted on hard hat, small pack to
carry bottled water, snacks, extra batteries etc. Elbow pads are optional. Medium (Moderate) Medium (Moderate) is
defined as novices to exercise extreme caution.
Obstacle work will be encountered (climbs, scrambling, crawling, tight
spaces, intricate passages, etc.). No
vertical rope work unless described in cave description. Cave can be wet. Water can be up to waist or chest deep. Cave can flood if so noted in the
description. EQUIPMENT REQUIRED:
Non-Insulated Coveralls or layers of clothing that can be adjusted according to
climate conditions you'll encounter both above and below ground. Boots that
cover the ankles, kneepads, gloves, a hard hat with chin strap, 3 light sources with one mounted on hard hat, small pack to
carry bottled water, snacks, extra batteries etc. Vertical gear if so noted in
cave description. Wet suit if noted in
cave description. Difficult Difficult is defined as
advanced, experienced cavers only. Major
obstacles will be encountered. Dangerous breakdown exploration possible. Rope work required if noted in cave
description. Vertical work is tough and
tedious. Advanced vertical work required
if so noted in the description. Rope
rigging may require special treatment or manipulation. Flash flooding if so noted. Cave could be considered “a bitch” or very
“sporting”. Louisville Grotto requires a
16 year old age minimum. EQUIPMENT REQUIRED:
Non-Insulated Coveralls or layers of clothing that can be adjusted according to
climate conditions you'll encounter both above and below ground. Boots that
cover the ankles, kneepads, gloves, a hard hat with chin strap, 3 light sources with one mounted on hard hat, small pack to
carry bottled water, snacks, extra batteries etc. Vertical gear if so noted in
cave description. Wet suit if noted in
cave description.