The MIG caves all over the midwest searching for a variety of caves and challenges.
Previous trips have taken us to Kentucky, Indiana, West Va. and Alabama.
These range from beginner (and children's) trips to much more strenuous trips
requiring considerable experience.
Trip plans are usually made at meetings where information and sources for
equipment are available at the Grotto Store. Safety and conservation are emphasized in all
of our caving activities.

    It should be said that caves are pitch black, cold, often wet and muddy, and initially confusing.
They can also be beautiful, challenging and absorbing. Most have some aspect
that is fragile - crystal formations, or bat colonies, or attractive rock shapes and colors,
which is why one has to learn how to cave without damage to the cave.

  Necessary equipment includes a helmet with a chin strap, three sources of light with one
mounted on the helmet, a small shoulder or fanny pack, gloves, elbow and knee pads,
boots with lug soles. Carbide or better electric headlamps are often used, backed up by flashlights
with spare batteries. Maglight's typically work great as they are very durable, fairly
waterproof and contain a spare bulb within the base. Clothing is usually shirt and
pants (expendable!) with coveralls. Caving is not an expensive activity - until one gets ropes,
surveying equipment, scuba gear, and other specialties.

  Some MIG members have recently participated in cave rescue training sponsored by
the Central Region of the National Cave Rescue Commission (NCRC) of the NSS. Experienced
members have volunteered for the rescue Callout List on behalf of the
Michigan Karst Conservancy  which owns caves in Michigan.