Introduction to Caving

This caving course will introduce you to the basics of caving. We will discuss safety concerns, lighting issues, and basic caving techniques, as well as give you an introduction to the local geology and an explanation of how the magnificent cave structures are formed. The course will lead you on foot, knee, and stomach as you explore the many caves that make up Crazy Horse Buttress.

In the morning, you will hike, walk, and crawl around the entire Crazy Horse area as you are led through many of the smaller caves that dot the mountain. During this time, you will be dazzled by the Karst stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstones as they glisten in the diffused sunlight while you learn the skills and knowledge that will make your afternoon safe and enjoyable.

In the afternoon, you will squeeze, scramble, and crawl your way deep into the belly of the Furnace Cave. Explore the unpredictable and magnificent architecture created by thousands of years of rainfall through the delicate Karst limestone. Navigate through the darkness, and learn basic techniques for keeping your bearings in a dark and winding environment. Be prepared to step out of your familiar zone and discover as much about yourself as you do about caves!

The Furnace Cave is significantly underground, and is unsuitably wet for much of the rainy season (June-September). Please check with CMRCA staff to determine the availability of this course,  and read about our Introduction to Vertical Caving course for another caving alternative!

CMRCA's Introductory Caving courses are completely independent and can be taken in either order. Both courses, or equivalent experience, are prerequisites for the Exploratory Caving course.