All Level 2 Field Trips
Level 2:
These trips can expose you to the weather elements for a longer period of time. They are more strenuous and require more physical ability. Level 2 trips may last up to 3 hours in length. Level 2 caving trips visit undeveloped cave passages and offer longer periods of crawling through small, constricted passages. Extended periods of bending, stooping and on occasion belly crawling might be required. Wet conditions, which may or may not exist, can create the possibility of hypothermia.
Thursday 1:30pm 
3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 10 Wilburn cave is located near the top of a big ridge. The trip to the cave entrance is a strenuous 250 foot climb up a 30 degree banking, so you should be in good health to participate in this trip. There is little to no walking passage found in the whole cave and it is known for plenty of nasty little crawls. At one point in the cave you will have to straddle over top of a 20 foot canyon to navigate through the passage. The park will provide transportation to and from the cave. The cave is on private property and we have permission to visit the cave during Winter Adventure Weekend only!
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at lodge. No transportation required.
Thursday 1:30pm 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 20 Find some hidden secrets in these wild and once often-visited park caves. Dripping dome rooms, scalloped rock passages, huge breakdown, a belly-crawl connection between caves, and a room filled with dozens of mini bathtub-like dams are just a few of the treasures you'll discover. These caves contain active streams. Be prepared to have wet feet, wet hands, possibly more if you slip! Water bottle/snack suggested. Total outdoor hike of at least 1.5 miles required over hilly terrain, so be mindful of the weather and dress appropriately!
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Friday 1:00pm 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 20 Cascade Cave has been developed for commercial tours, but the fun begins when you head into the darkness and leave the tourist route behind. Participant will get a chance to walk the commercial routes and enjoy the formations along with scrambling over breakdown, attempting some duck walking, and experiencing some hand and knee crawls. Cascade is one of the largest caves found at park, and in my opinion, this tour is one of the best ways to appreciate its size. This tour, unlike the commercial tour, will cause some of those assorted aches and pains associated with caving.
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at lodge. Transportation required.
Friday 1:30pm 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 20 Find some hidden secrets in these wild and once often-visited park caves. Dripping dome rooms, scalloped rock passages, huge breakdown, a belly-crawl connection between caves, and a room filled with dozens of mini bathtub-like dams are just a few of the treasures you'll discover. These caves contain active streams. Be prepared to have wet feet, wet hands, possibly more if you slip! Water bottle/snack suggested. Total outdoor hike of at least 1.5 miles required over hilly terrain, so be mindful of the weather and dress appropriately!
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Friday 1:30pm 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 6 Experience the drop of a lifetime as you rappel through the sinkhole in the top of Carter Cave's Natural Bridge! Enjoy not only the experience of rappelling but also the natural beauty of the area as you descend over 60 feet into the bed of Cave Branch Stream. Thousands of people enjoy the view of our Natural Bridge from the ground up, but only a few get to enjoy the view from top down. Here is your chance to be one of the few! For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines. This trip requires a 1/4 mile walk from the Welcome Center to the Rappel Site.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Friday 1:30pm 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 10 Cavers descend into deep pits to explore, but how do they get out? This trip will give you insight into the basics needed to ascend on a rope. You will be introduced to a system of rope ascending commonly used by cavers, and you will get a chance to do a rope climb silhouetted by Smoky Bridge. This is a physical activity that requires the use of your whole body to successfully participate in. We will provide you with all the necessary equipment including a climbing system and helmet. For your safety and comfort, you must be able to fit in the harness per manufacturer safety guidelines and be able to follow directions while on rope.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Friday 1:30pm 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 6 Would you like to try rappelling? Here's your chance. No experience will be necessary. This will NOT be a "how to" workshop. You will be given basic instructions, put on the rope, and monitored on the descent. The rappel location is very scenic and is guaranteed to make you pucker before your 50-foot descent. For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Friday 1:30pm 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 10 Drop in. Would you like to know if you're the fastest rope climber at Winter Adventure Weekend? Now is your chance to find out! So come, compete and see how you stack up. Everyone is welcome to compete, regardless of age or experience! This is a physical activity that requires the use of your whole body to successfully participate in. All of the required equipment will be provided for you. Personal equipment can be used, however the use of a seat harness is required. All personal gear will be inspected by the climbing competition staff, and the staff reserve the right to refuse gear that does not pass inspection. Prizes will be awarded by age group during the Saturday evening program. Staph are welcome to participate but will be in a separate category from event participants.
Follow signs from in front of lodge to climbing site. No transportation required.
Friday 2:00pm 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 15 Come learn all about the amazing diversity of organisms that inhabit the Carter Caves forest. We will discuss everything from why some trees make good whiskey barrels and others do not to how to use different plants when the zombies come. This hike will be about 1.5 miles in length along the Horn Hollow Trail.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Meets at Welcome Center. No transportation required.
Friday 2:00pm 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 10 Sandy Cave has a huge and long trunk passage that is part of the Cascade Cave system. It also provides some interesting areas that are accessed by crawling and climbing. The entrance is through a karst window with a 70-foot pool of deep water at its bottom. The guides intend to lower a john boat to the pool and offer a boat ride to dry land. This is subject to cancellation if potential flooding conditions occur. Participants must help carry the boat through the woods for 1/2 mile to the cave on Friday afternoon trip and from the cave on the 10:00 Sunday morning trip. This cave is only accessible during Winter Adventure Weekend!
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at lodge. Transportation required.
Friday 2:00pm 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 6 Experience the drop of a lifetime as you rappel through the sinkhole in the top of Carter Cave's Natural Bridge! Enjoy not only the experience of rappelling but also the natural beauty of the area as you descend over 60 feet into the bed of Cave Branch Stream. Thousands of people enjoy the view of our Natural Bridge from the ground up, but only a few get to enjoy the view from top down. Here is your chance to be one of the few! For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines. This trip requires a 1/4 mile walk from the Welcome Center to the Rappel Site.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Friday 2:00pm 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 6 Would you like to try rappelling? Here's your chance. No experience will be necessary. This will NOT be a "how to" workshop. You will be given basic instructions, put on the rope, and monitored on the descent. The rappel location is very scenic and is guaranteed to make you pucker before your 50-foot descent. For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Friday 2:30pm 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 6 Experience the drop of a lifetime as you rappel through the sinkhole in the top of Carter Cave's Natural Bridge! Enjoy not only the experience of rappelling but also the natural beauty of the area as you descend over 60 feet into the bed of Cave Branch Stream. Thousands of people enjoy the view of our Natural Bridge from the ground up, but only a few get to enjoy the view from top down. Here is your chance to be one of the few! For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines. This trip requires a 1/4 mile walk from the Welcome Center to the Rappel Site.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Friday 2:30pm 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 6 Would you like to try rappelling? Here's your chance. No experience will be necessary. This will NOT be a "how to" workshop. You will be given basic instructions, put on the rope, and monitored on the descent. The rappel location is very scenic and is guaranteed to make you pucker before your 50-foot descent. For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Friday 2:30pm 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 10 Drop in. Would you like to know if you're the fastest rope climber at Winter Adventure Weekend? Now is your chance to find out! So come, compete and see how you stack up. Everyone is welcome to compete, regardless of age or experience! This is a physical activity that requires the use of your whole body to successfully participate in. All of the required equipment will be provided for you. Personal equipment can be used, however the use of a seat harness is required. All personal gear will be inspected by the climbing competition staff, and the staff reserve the right to refuse gear that does not pass inspection. Prizes will be awarded by age group during the Saturday evening program. Staph are welcome to participate but will be in a separate category from event participants.
Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Friday 3:00pm 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 6 Experience the drop of a lifetime as you rappel through the sinkhole in the top of Carter Cave's Natural Bridge! Enjoy not only the experience of rappelling but also the natural beauty of the area as you descend over 60 feet into the bed of Cave Branch Stream. Thousands of people enjoy the view of our Natural Bridge from the ground up, but only a few get to enjoy the view from top down. Here is your chance to be one of the few! For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines. This trip requires a 1/4 mile walk from the Welcome Center to the Rappel Site.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Friday 3:00pm 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 10 Cavers descend into deep pits to explore, but how do they get out? This trip will give you insight into the basics needed to ascend on a rope. You will be introduced to a system of rope ascending commonly used by cavers, and you will get a chance to do a rope climb silhouetted by Smoky Bridge. This is a physical activity that requires the use of your whole body to successfully participate in. We will provide you with all the necessary equipment including a climbing system and helmet. For your safety and comfort, you must be able to fit in the harness per manufacturer safety guidelines and be able to follow directions while on rope.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Friday 3:00pm 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 6 Would you like to try rappelling? Here's your chance. No experience will be necessary. This will NOT be a "how to" workshop. You will be given basic instructions, put on the rope, and monitored on the descent. The rappel location is very scenic and is guaranteed to make you pucker before your 50-foot descent. For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Friday 3:30pm 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 6 Experience the drop of a lifetime as you rappel through the sinkhole in the top of Carter Cave's Natural Bridge! Enjoy not only the experience of rappelling but also the natural beauty of the area as you descend over 60 feet into the bed of Cave Branch Stream. Thousands of people enjoy the view of our Natural Bridge from the ground up, but only a few get to enjoy the view from top down. Here is your chance to be one of the few! For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines. This trip requires a 1/4 mile walk from the Welcome Center to the Rappel Site.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Friday 3:30pm 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 6 Would you like to try rappelling? Here's your chance. No experience will be necessary. This will NOT be a "how to" workshop. You will be given basic instructions, put on the rope, and monitored on the descent. The rappel location is very scenic and is guaranteed to make you pucker before your 50-foot descent. For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Friday 3:30pm 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 10 Drop in. Would you like to know if you're the fastest rope climber at Winter Adventure Weekend? Now is your chance to find out! So come, compete and see how you stack up. Everyone is welcome to compete, regardless of age or experience! This is a physical activity that requires the use of your whole body to successfully participate in. All of the required equipment will be provided for you. Personal equipment can be used, however the use of a seat harness is required. All personal gear will be inspected by the climbing competition staff, and the staff reserve the right to refuse gear that does not pass inspection. Prizes will be awarded by age group during the Saturday evening program. Staph are welcome to participate but will be in a separate category from event participants.
Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Friday 4:00pm 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 6 Experience the drop of a lifetime as you rappel through the sinkhole in the top of Carter Cave's Natural Bridge! Enjoy not only the experience of rappelling but also the natural beauty of the area as you descend over 60 feet into the bed of Cave Branch Stream. Thousands of people enjoy the view of our Natural Bridge from the ground up, but only a few get to enjoy the view from top down. Here is your chance to be one of the few! For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines. This trip requires a 1/4 mile walk from the Welcome Center to the Rappel Site.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Friday 4:00pm 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 6 Would you like to try rappelling? Here's your chance. No experience will be necessary. This will NOT be a "how to" workshop. You will be given basic instructions, put on the rope, and monitored on the descent. The rappel location is very scenic and is guaranteed to make you pucker before your 50-foot descent. For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Friday 6:00pm 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 20 Get ready for the cave experience you never knew you needed with Tutus and Glow sticks! On this unique trip through Cascade we will share trivia around the history of dance, art, and entertainment in caves. Did you know a 9,000 year old cave painting is the earliest proof of human dance? Or, that the art of flamenco came from people living in excavated caves in Spain? Join our trip and learn more fun tidbits as we walk through large trunk passage, and scoot through optional side tunnels for anyone itching for a hands and knees crawl! At the end of the trip we will have hot chocolate waiting. This trip is appropriate for all ages and comes with a free tutu to keep.
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at lodge. Transportation required.
Friday 6:00pm 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 20 On this Friday Night Crawl we will be warming up Bat Cave for the weekend. After a 1/4 mile walk into the dark forest you will enter the dark underground world of Bat Cave. Plenty to see on this trip with a mix of walking passage, rock scrambling, hands and knee crawls, belly slitherin all with a taste of mud and water. After all is said and done this trip will get you itchen to get back to cavin the rest of the weekend! .
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at lodge. Transportation required.
Friday 7:00pm 2.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 8 Take a trip into Cascade Cave and see it like the old timer's (e.g. John Tierney) back in the day. We will go caving in Cascade Cave with only carbide lamps, and ONLY old-style carbide lamps. No newer type carbide generators, LED's or battery-powered lamps will be allowed. This trip will show you how the cave looked to the early explorers of the area when all they had was flame-type carbide lamps. We will tell you the history of the carbide lamp and how its simple design brought dependable light to miners and cavers throughout Kentucky back in the early 1900's. We will show you the exact spot where back in 1923, John Tierney scared a hibernating bear and then accidently blew out his carbide lamp and was stuck in the cave for two days until he was rescued by park staff. This is but one of many stories associated with this cave. If you have an older type carbide cap lamp that is in working order please bring it. We will also supply carbide lamps for the rest of the group to use. There will be some stooping, bending and crawling involved so level 2 caving equipment is required minus the lights.
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at lodge. Transportation required.
Friday 8:30pm 9.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 30 Prepare for an expedition into the depths of the earth and your imagination. We'll take a mock multi-day cave expedition to a base camp in the ancient cave system of the Cascades. Cavers will team up with Sherpa's to setup a deep base camp as we spend one Friday night in the cavern. Once camp is set we will take off and do some exploring of the unknown passages that lies ahead. We will likely encountering passages requiring stooping bending and crawling so level 2 cave gear is required. All overnight gear is to be supplied by the participant including a required 3 sources of light. Gear must be limited to cold weather camping gear and a tarp or piece of plastic to keep your gear on. Bring caving stories, caving questions, and caving lies to share around the base camp. All participants 17yrs and under must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, no exceptions!
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $30.00 - Meets at lodge . Transportation required.
Saturday 8:30am 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 20 While the bats are sleeping in the front of the cave, we will be entering into the back of the cave after a quarter mile hike to the cave entrance. Bat Cave is a completely wild cave with the exception of the cave gates. This trip is a combination of walking, duck walking, scrambling over breakdown piles, creek crossings, belly slides, and hand and knee crawls. You get the whole package with the cave being a combination of dry, muddy and wet. How wet you get depends on how merciful your guide is.
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at lodge. Transportation required.
Saturday 8:30am 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 10 Sandy Cave has a huge and long trunk passage that is part of the Cascade Cave system. It also provides some interesting areas that are accessed by crawling and climbing. The entrance is through a karst window with a 70-foot pool of deep water at its bottom. The guides intend to lower a john boat to the pool and offer a boat ride to dry land. This is subject to cancellation if potential flooding conditions occur. Participants must help carry the boat through the woods for 1/2 mile to the cave on Friday afternoon trip and from the cave on the 10:00 Sunday morning trip. This cave is only accessible during Winter Adventure Weekend!
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at lodge. Transportation required.
Saturday 8:30am 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 6 Would you like to try rappelling? Here's your chance. No experience will be necessary. This will NOT be a "how to" workshop. You will be given basic instructions, put on the rope, and monitored on the descent. The rappel location is very scenic and is guaranteed to make you pucker before your 50-foot descent. For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 8:30am 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 10 Cavers descend into deep pits to explore, but how do they get out? This trip will give you insight into the basics needed to ascend on a rope. You will be introduced to a system of rope ascending commonly used by cavers, and you will get a chance to do a rope climb silhouetted by Smoky Bridge. This is a physical activity that requires the use of your whole body to successfully participate in. We will provide you with all the necessary equipment including a climbing system and helmet. For your safety and comfort, you must be able to fit in the harness per manufacturer safety guidelines and be able to follow directions while on rope.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 8:30am 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 10 Drop in. Would you like to know if you're the fastest rope climber at Winter Adventure Weekend? Now is your chance to find out! So come, compete and see how you stack up. Everyone is welcome to compete, regardless of age or experience! This is a physical activity that requires the use of your whole body to successfully participate in. All of the required equipment will be provided for you. Personal equipment can be used, however the use of a seat harness is required. All personal gear will be inspected by the climbing competition staff, and the staff reserve the right to refuse gear that does not pass inspection. Prizes will be awarded by age group during the Saturday evening program. Staph are welcome to participate but will be in a separate category from event participants.
Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 9:00am 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 20 Find some hidden secrets in these wild and once often-visited park caves. Dripping dome rooms, scalloped rock passages, huge breakdown, a belly-crawl connection between caves, and a room filled with dozens of mini bathtub-like dams are just a few of the treasures you'll discover. These caves contain active streams. Be prepared to have wet feet, wet hands, possibly more if you slip! Water bottle/snack suggested. Total outdoor hike of at least 1.5 miles required over hilly terrain, so be mindful of the weather and dress appropriately!
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Saturday 9:00am 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 20 Cascade Cave has been developed for commercial tours, but the fun begins when you head into the darkness and leave the tourist route behind. Participant will get a chance to walk the commercial routes and enjoy the formations along with scrambling over breakdown, attempting some duck walking, and experiencing some hand and knee crawls. Cascade is one of the largest caves found at park, and in my opinion, this tour is one of the best ways to appreciate its size. This tour, unlike the commercial tour, will cause some of those assorted aches and pains associated with caving.
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at lodge. Transportation required.
Saturday 9:00am 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 15 This trip into Bat Cave is perfect for first-time cavers of all ages! We will see a little mud, a few puddles, and maybe a bat or two; learn some safe-caving guidelines; hear some spooky cave stories; and find out the REAL reason caves are dark. It is mostly walking with a short crawl, and you will never be more than five minutes from the entrance if you decide that caving is not your thing. A limited number of helmets and lights are available. If you need to borrow a helmet and light, you must reserve them at least two weeks before the trip by calling the Rereation Department at 606-286-7009.
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets in Fields Facility of lodge. Transportation required.
Saturday 9:00am 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 6 Experience the drop of a lifetime as you rappel through the sinkhole in the top of Carter Cave's Natural Bridge! Enjoy not only the experience of rappelling but also the natural beauty of the area as you descend over 60 feet into the bed of Cave Branch Stream. Thousands of people enjoy the view of our Natural Bridge from the ground up, but only a few get to enjoy the view from top down. Here is your chance to be one of the few! For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines. This trip requires a 1/4 mile walk from the Welcome Center to the Rappel Site.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Saturday 9:00am 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 6 Would you like to try rappelling? Here's your chance. No experience will be necessary. This will NOT be a "how to" workshop. You will be given basic instructions, put on the rope, and monitored on the descent. The rappel location is very scenic and is guaranteed to make you pucker before your 50-foot descent. For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 9:00am 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 10 Like climbing trees? Recreational tree climbing is a popular high adventure activity that puts a twist to our backyard tree climbing pastime. We will cover what the traditional tree climbing schools are teaching, which is traditional double rope technique that involves using a modified hip thrust to pull themselves 20-40 feet off of the ground. The location will not only give you a great view, the classroom portion will be sheltered from the elements. Participants 15 years and under require parent or guardian supervision. Required equipment includes climbing appropriate gloves and warm clothing.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 9:30am 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 8 Join us for an introduction to rock climbing experience on Kentucky Sandstone! This trip will teach basic technical skills and climbing techniques to safely climb in a top rope setting. All technical equipment will be provided, this includes harness, helmets, and shoes for each individual. Each participant needs to wear comfortable shoes to hike to the climb site with, and bring water and a snack with them for the day. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Follow signs from Cottage area to the site. Transportation required.
Saturday 9:30am 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 20 While the bats are sleeping in the front of the cave, we will be entering into the back of the cave after a quarter mile hike to the cave entrance. Bat Cave is a completely wild cave with the exception of the cave gates. This trip is a combination of walking, duck walking, scrambling over breakdown piles, creek crossings, belly slides, and hand and knee crawls. You get the whole package with the cave being a combination of dry, muddy and wet. How wet you get depends on how merciful your guide is.
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at lodge. Transportation required.
Saturday 9:30am 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 10 Sandy Cave has a huge and long trunk passage that is part of the Cascade Cave system. It also provides some interesting areas that are accessed by crawling and climbing. The entrance is through a karst window with a 70-foot pool of deep water at its bottom. The guides intend to lower a john boat to the pool and offer a boat ride to dry land. This is subject to cancellation if potential flooding conditions occur. Participants must help carry the boat through the woods for 1/2 mile to the cave on the Friday afternoon trip and from the cave on the 10:00 Sunday morning trip. This cave is only accessible during Winter Adventure Weekend!
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at lodge. Transportation required.
Saturday 9:30am 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 6 Would you like to try rappelling? Here's your chance. No experience will be necessary. This will NOT be a "how to" workshop. You will be given basic instructions, put on the rope, and monitored on the descent. The rappel location is very scenic and is guaranteed to make you pucker before your 50-foot descent. For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 9:30am 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 6 Experience the drop of a lifetime as you rappel through the sinkhole in the top of Carter Cave's Natural Bridge! Enjoy not only the experience of rappelling but also the natural beauty of the area as you descend over 60 feet into the bed of Cave Branch Stream. Thousands of people enjoy the view of our Natural Bridge from the ground up, but only a few get to enjoy the view from top down. Here is your chance to be one of the few! For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines. This trip requires a 1/4 mile walk from the Welcome Center to the Rappel Site.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Saturday 9:30am 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 10 Drop in. Would you like to know if you're the fastest rope climber at Winter Adventure Weekend? Now is your chance to find out! So come, compete and see how you stack up. Everyone is welcome to compete, regardless of age or experience! This is a physical activity that requires the use of your whole body to successfully participate in. All of the required equipment will be provided for you. Personal equipment can be used, however the use of a seat harness is required. All personal gear will be inspected by the climbing competition staff, and the staff reserve the right to refuse gear that does not pass inspection. Prizes will be awarded by age group during the Saturday evening program. Staph are welcome to participate but will be in a separate category from event participants.
Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 10:00am 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 20 Cascade Cave has been developed for commercial tours, but the fun begins when you head into the darkness and leave the tourist route behind. Participant will get a chance to walk the commercial routes and enjoy the formations along with scrambling over breakdown, attempting some duck walking, and experiencing some hand and knee crawls. Cascade is one of the largest caves found at park, and in my opinion, this tour is one of the best ways to appreciate its size. This tour, unlike the commercial tour, will cause some of those assorted aches and pains associated with caving.
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at lodge. Transportation required.
Saturday 10:00am 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 6 Would you like to try rappelling? Here's your chance. No experience will be necessary. This will NOT be a "how to" workshop. You will be given basic instructions, put on the rope, and monitored on the descent. The rappel location is very scenic and is guaranteed to make you pucker before your 50-foot descent. For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 10:00am 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 6 Experience the drop of a lifetime as you rappel through the sinkhole in the top of Carter Cave's Natural Bridge! Enjoy not only the experience of rappelling but also the natural beauty of the area as you descend over 60 feet into the bed of Cave Branch Stream. Thousands of people enjoy the view of our Natural Bridge from the ground up, but only a few get to enjoy the view from top down. Here is your chance to be one of the few! For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines. This trip requires a 1/4 mile walk from the Welcome Center to the Rappel Site.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Saturday 10:00am 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 10 Cavers descend into deep pits to explore, but how do they get out? This trip will give you insight into the basics needed to ascend on a rope. You will be introduced to a system of rope ascending commonly used by cavers, and you will get a chance to do a rope climb silhouetted by Smoky Bridge. This is a physical activity that requires the use of your whole body to successfully participate in. We will provide you with all the necessary equipment including a climbing system and helmet. For your safety and comfort, you must be able to fit in the harness per manufacturer safety guidelines and be able to follow directions while on rope.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 10:30am 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 10 Drop in. Would you like to know if you're the fastest rope climber at Winter Adventure Weekend? Now is your chance to find out! So come, compete and see how you stack up. Everyone is welcome to compete, regardless of age or experience! This is a physical activity that requires the use of your whole body to successfully participate in. All of the required equipment will be provided for you. Personal equipment can be used, however the use of a seat harness is required. All personal gear will be inspected by the climbing competition staff, and the staff reserve the right to refuse gear that does not pass inspection. Prizes will be awarded by age group during the Saturday evening program. Staph are welcome to participate but will be in a separate category from event participants.
Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 10:30am 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 6 Would you like to try rappelling? Here's your chance. No experience will be necessary. This will NOT be a "how to" workshop. You will be given basic instructions, put on the rope, and monitored on the descent. The rappel location is very scenic and is guaranteed to make you pucker before your 50-foot descent. For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 10:30am 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 10 Like climbing trees? Recreational tree climbing is a popular high adventure activity that puts a twist to our backyard tree climbing pastime. We will cover what the traditional tree climbing schools are teaching, which is traditional double rope technique that involves using a modified hip thrust to pull themselves 20-40 feet off of the ground. The location will not only give you a great view, the classroom portion will be sheltered from the elements. Participants 15 years and under require parent or guardian supervision. Required equipment includes climbing appropriate gloves and warm clothing.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 10:30am 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 6 Experience the drop of a lifetime as you rappel through the sinkhole in the top of Carter Cave's Natural Bridge! Enjoy not only the experience of rappelling but also the natural beauty of the area as you descend over 60 feet into the bed of Cave Branch Stream. Thousands of people enjoy the view of our Natural Bridge from the ground up, but only a few get to enjoy the view from top down. Here is your chance to be one of the few! For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines. This trip requires a 1/4 mile walk from the Welcome Center to the Rappel Site.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Saturday 11:00am 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 6 Would you like to try rappelling? Here's your chance. No experience will be necessary. This will NOT be a "how to" workshop. You will be given basic instructions, put on the rope, and monitored on the descent. The rappel location is very scenic and is guaranteed to make you pucker before your 50-foot descent. For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 11:00am 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 6 Experience the drop of a lifetime as you rappel through the sinkhole in the top of Carter Cave's Natural Bridge! Enjoy not only the experience of rappelling but also the natural beauty of the area as you descend over 60 feet into the bed of Cave Branch Stream. Thousands of people enjoy the view of our Natural Bridge from the ground up, but only a few get to enjoy the view from top down. Here is your chance to be one of the few! For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines. This trip requires a 1/4 mile walk from the Welcome Center to the Rappel Site.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Saturday 11:30am 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 6 Experience the drop of a lifetime as you rappel through the sinkhole in the top of Carter Cave's Natural Bridge! Enjoy not only the experience of rappelling but also the natural beauty of the area as you descend over 60 feet into the bed of Cave Branch Stream. Thousands of people enjoy the view of our Natural Bridge from the ground up, but only a few get to enjoy the view from top down. Here is your chance to be one of the few! For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines. This trip requires a 1/4 mile walk from the Welcome Center to the Rappel Site.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Saturday 12:30pm 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 20 While the bats are sleeping in the front of the cave, we will be entering into the back of the cave after a quarter mile hike to the cave entrance. Bat Cave is a completely wild cave with the exception of the cave gates. This trip is a combination of walking, duck walking, scrambling over breakdown piles, creek crossings, belly slides, and hand and knee crawls. You get the whole package with the cave being a combination of dry, muddy and wet. How wet you get depends on how merciful your guide is.
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at lodge. Transportation required.
Saturday 12:30pm 2.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 8 Take a trip into Cascade Cave and see it like the old timer's (e.g. John Tierney) back in the day. We will go caving in Cascade Cave with only carbide lamps, and ONLY old-style carbide lamps. No newer type carbide generators, LED's or battery-powered lamps will be allowed. This trip will show you how the cave looked to the early explorers of the area when all they had was flame-type carbide lamps. We will tell you the history of the carbide lamp and how its simple design brought dependable light to miners and cavers throughout Kentucky back in the early 1900's. We will show you the exact spot where back in 1923, John Tierney scared a hibernating bear and then accidently blew out his carbide lamp and was stuck in the cave for two days until he was rescued by park staff. This is but one of many stories associated with this cave. If you have an older type carbide cap lamp that is in working order please bring it. We will also supply carbide lamps for the rest of the group to use. There will be some stooping, bending and crawling involved so level 2 caving equipment is required minus the lights.
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at lodge. Transportation required.
Saturday 12:30pm 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 10 Tucked back in the woods of Carter Caves State Park is a cave that is noted for its large passages. Instead of electric light we will explore this cave, like the explorers of yore, in the soft ambiance of lantern light. Although you should bring your electric lights for safety purposes we request that they remain off during this trip. Past experience has shown us that adults appreciate this particular trip more than children. This is subject to cancellation if potential flooding conditions occur. This cave is only accessible during Winter Adventure Weekend!
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at lodge. Transportation required.
Saturday 12:30pm 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 6 Would you like to try rappelling? Here's your chance. No experience will be necessary. This will NOT be a "how to" workshop. You will be given basic instructions, put on the rope, and monitored on the descent. The rappel location is very scenic and is guaranteed to make you pucker before your 50-foot descent. For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 12:30pm 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 10 Cavers descend into deep pits to explore, but how do they get out? This trip will give you insight into the basics needed to ascend on a rope. You will be introduced to a system of rope ascending commonly used by cavers, and you will get a chance to do a rope climb silhouetted by Smoky Bridge. This is a physical activity that requires the use of your whole body to successfully participate in. We will provide you with all the necessary equipment including a climbing system and helmet. For your safety and comfort, you must be able to fit in the harness per manufacturer safety guidelines and be able to follow directions while on rope.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 12:30pm 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 10 Drop in. Would you like to know if you're the fastest rope climber at Winter Adventure Weekend? Now is your chance to find out! So come, compete and see how you stack up. Everyone is welcome to compete, regardless of age or experience! This is a physical activity that requires the use of your whole body to successfully participate in. All of the required equipment will be provided for you. Personal equipment can be used, however the use of a seat harness is required. All personal gear will be inspected by the climbing competition staff, and the staff reserve the right to refuse gear that does not pass inspection. Prizes will be awarded by age group during the Saturday evening program. Staph are welcome to participate but will be in a separate category from event participants.
Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 1:00pm 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 20 While the bats are sleeping in the front of the cave, we will be entering into the back of the cave after a quarter mile hike to the cave entrance. Bat Cave is a completely wild cave with the exception of the cave gates. This trip is a combination of walking, duck walking, scrambling over breakdown piles, creek crossings, belly slides, and hand and knee crawls. You get the whole package with the cave being a combination of dry, muddy and wet. How wet you get depends on how merciful your guide is.
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at lodge. Transportation required.
Saturday 1:00pm 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 10 Like climbing trees? Recreational tree climbing is a popular high adventure activity that puts a twist to our backyard tree climbing pastime. We will cover what the traditional tree climbing schools are teaching, which is traditional double rope technique that involves using a modified hip thrust to pull themselves 20-40 feet off of the ground. The location will not only give you a great view, the classroom portion will be sheltered from the elements. Participants 15 years and under require parent or guardian supervision. Required equipment includes climbing appropriate gloves and warm clothing.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 1:00pm 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 6 Would you like to try rappelling? Here's your chance. No experience will be necessary. This will NOT be a "how to" workshop. You will be given basic instructions, put on the rope, and monitored on the descent. The rappel location is very scenic and is guaranteed to make you pucker before your 50-foot descent. For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 1:00pm 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 6 Experience the drop of a lifetime as you rappel through the sinkhole in the top of Carter Cave's Natural Bridge! Enjoy not only the experience of rappelling but also the natural beauty of the area as you descend over 60 feet into the bed of Cave Branch Stream. Thousands of people enjoy the view of our Natural Bridge from the ground up, but only a few get to enjoy the view from top down. Here is your chance to be one of the few! For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines. This trip requires a 1/4 mile walk from the Welcome Center to the Rappel Site.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Saturday 1:30pm 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 15 This is a beginner-level trip along some beautiful commercial trail, with a sandy hands-and-knees crawl to see another entrance. Participants will learn about safe caving practices, geology, hydrology, and bat echo-location on a human scale. A limited number of helmets and lights are available. If you need to borrow a helmet and light, you must reserve them at least two weeks before the trip by calling the Rereation Department at 606-286-7009.
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Saturday 1:30pm 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 8 Join us for an introduction to rock climbing experience on Kentucky Sandstone! This trip will teach basic technical skills and climbing techniques to safely climb in a top rope setting. All technical equipment will be provided, this includes harness, helmets, and shoes for each individual. Each participant needs to wear comfortable shoes to hike to the climb site with, and bring water and a snack with them for the day. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Follow signs from Cottage area to the site. Transportation required.
Saturday 1:30pm 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 20 Find some hidden secrets in these wild and once often-visited park caves. Dripping dome rooms, scalloped rock passages, huge breakdown, a belly-crawl connection between caves, and a room filled with dozens of mini bathtub-like dams are just a few of the treasures you'll discover. These caves contain active streams. Be prepared to have wet feet, wet hands, possibly more if you slip! Water bottle/snack suggested. Total outdoor hike of at least 1.5 miles required over hilly terrain, so be mindful of the weather and dress appropriately!
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Saturday 1:30pm 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 10 Sandy Cave has a huge and long trunk passage that is part of the Cascade Cave system. It also provides some interesting areas that are accessed by crawling and climbing. The entrance is through a karst window with a 70-foot pool of deep water at its bottom. The guides intend to lower a john boat to the pool and offer a boat ride to dry land. This is subject to cancellation if potential flooding conditions occur. Participants must help carry the boat through the woods for 1/2 mile to the cave on the Friday afternoon trip and from the cave on the 10:00 Sunday morning trip. This cave is only accessible during Winter Adventure Weekend!
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at lodge. Transportation required.
Saturday 1:30pm 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 6 Would you like to try rappelling? Here's your chance. No experience will be necessary. This will NOT be a "how to" workshop. You will be given basic instructions, put on the rope, and monitored on the descent. The rappel location is very scenic and is guaranteed to make you pucker before your 50-foot descent. For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 1:30pm 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 6 Experience the drop of a lifetime as you rappel through the sinkhole in the top of Carter Cave's Natural Bridge! Enjoy not only the experience of rappelling but also the natural beauty of the area as you descend over 60 feet into the bed of Cave Branch Stream. Thousands of people enjoy the view of our Natural Bridge from the ground up, but only a few get to enjoy the view from top down. Here is your chance to be one of the few! For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines. This trip requires a 1/4 mile walk from the Welcome Center to the Rappel Site.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Saturday 1:30pm 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 10 Drop in. Would you like to know if you're the fastest rope climber at Winter Adventure Weekend? Now is your chance to find out! So come, compete and see how you stack up. Everyone is welcome to compete, regardless of age or experience! This is a physical activity that requires the use of your whole body to successfully participate in. All of the required equipment will be provided for you. Personal equipment can be used, however the use of a seat harness is required. All personal gear will be inspected by the climbing competition staff, and the staff reserve the right to refuse gear that does not pass inspection. Prizes will be awarded by age group during the Saturday evening program. Staph are welcome to participate but will be in a separate category from event participants.
Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 2:00pm 2.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 10 A trip to one of the less well-known caves in the Park. Discovered in 1984 and originally named Coon-in-the-Crack Cave, this short and less-known-and-visited cave has a both crawlway and pit entrances (pit negotiated with a ladder). The western half of the cave is vaguely suggestive of how Saltpetre Cave must have looked prior to mining and commercialization. The trip will include a hike to and from the cave.
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at lodge. Transportation required.
Saturday 2:00pm 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 20 Cascade Cave has been developed for commercial tours, but the fun begins when you head into the darkness and leave the tourist route behind. Participant will get a chance to walk the commercial routes and enjoy the formations along with scrambling over breakdown, attempting some duck walking, and experiencing some hand and knee crawls. Cascade is one of the largest caves found at park, and in my opinion, this tour is one of the best ways to appreciate its size. This tour, unlike the commercial tour, will cause some of those assorted aches and pains associated with caving.
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at lodge. Transportation required.
Saturday 2:00pm 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 20 While the bats are sleeping in the front of the cave, we will be entering into the back of the cave after a quarter mile hike to the cave entrance. Bat Cave is a completely wild cave with the exception of the cave gates. This trip is a combination of walking, duck walking, scrambling over breakdown piles, creek crossings, belly slides, and hand and knee crawls. You get the whole package with the cave being a combination of dry, muddy and wet. How wet you get depends on how merciful your guide is.
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at lodge. Transportation required.
Saturday 2:00pm 2.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 10 A trip to one of the less well-known caves in the Park. Discovered in 1984 and originally named Coon-in-the-Crack Cave, this short and less-known-and-visited cave has a both crawlway and pit entrances (pit negotiated with a ladder). The western half of the cave is vaguely suggestive of how Saltpetre Cave must have looked prior to mining and commercialization. The trip will include a hike to and from the cave.
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at lodge. Transportation required.
Saturday 2:00pm 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 6 Would you like to try rappelling? Here's your chance. No experience will be necessary. This will NOT be a "how to" workshop. You will be given basic instructions, put on the rope, and monitored on the descent. The rappel location is very scenic and is guaranteed to make you pucker before your 50-foot descent. For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 2:00pm 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 10 Cavers descend into deep pits to explore, but how do they get out? This trip will give you insight into the basics needed to ascend on a rope. You will be introduced to a system of rope ascending commonly used by cavers, and you will get a chance to do a rope climb silhouetted by Smoky Bridge. This is a physical activity that requires the use of your whole body to successfully participate in. We will provide you with all the necessary equipment including a climbing system and helmet. For your safety and comfort, you must be able to fit in the harness per manufacturer safety guidelines and be able to follow directions while on rope.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 2:00pm 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 6 Experience the drop of a lifetime as you rappel through the sinkhole in the top of Carter Cave's Natural Bridge! Enjoy not only the experience of rappelling but also the natural beauty of the area as you descend over 60 feet into the bed of Cave Branch Stream. Thousands of people enjoy the view of our Natural Bridge from the ground up, but only a few get to enjoy the view from top down. Here is your chance to be one of the few! For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines. This trip requires a 1/4 mile walk from the Welcome Center to the Rappel Site.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Saturday 2:30pm 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 6 Would you like to try rappelling? Here's your chance. No experience will be necessary. This will NOT be a "how to" workshop. You will be given basic instructions, put on the rope, and monitored on the descent. The rappel location is very scenic and is guaranteed to make you pucker before your 50-foot descent. For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 2:30pm 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 10 Like climbing trees? Recreational tree climbing is a popular high adventure activity that puts a twist to our backyard tree climbing pastime. We will cover what the traditional tree climbing schools are teaching, which is traditional double rope technique that involves using a modified hip thrust to pull themselves 20-40 feet off of the ground. The location will not only give you a great view, the classroom portion will be sheltered from the elements. Participants 15 years and under require parent or guardian supervision. Required equipment includes climbing appropriate gloves and warm clothing.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 2:30pm 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 6 Experience the drop of a lifetime as you rappel through the sinkhole in the top of Carter Cave's Natural Bridge! Enjoy not only the experience of rappelling but also the natural beauty of the area as you descend over 60 feet into the bed of Cave Branch Stream. Thousands of people enjoy the view of our Natural Bridge from the ground up, but only a few get to enjoy the view from top down. Here is your chance to be one of the few! For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines. This trip requires a 1/4 mile walk from the Welcome Center to the Rappel Site.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Saturday 2:30pm 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 10 Drop in. Would you like to know if you're the fastest rope climber at Winter Adventure Weekend? Now is your chance to find out! So come, compete and see how you stack up. Everyone is welcome to compete, regardless of age or experience! This is a physical activity that requires the use of your whole body to successfully participate in. All of the required equipment will be provided for you. Personal equipment can be used, however the use of a seat harness is required. All personal gear will be inspected by the climbing competition staff, and the staff reserve the right to refuse gear that does not pass inspection. Prizes will be awarded by age group during the Saturday evening program. Staph are welcome to participate but will be in a separate category from event participants.
Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 3:00pm 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 6 Would you like to try rappelling? Here's your chance. No experience will be necessary. This will NOT be a "how to" workshop. You will be given basic instructions, put on the rope, and monitored on the descent. The rappel location is very scenic and is guaranteed to make you pucker before your 50-foot descent. For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 3:30pm 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 10 Drop in. Would you like to know if you're the fastest rope climber at Winter Adventure Weekend? Now is your chance to find out! So come, compete and see how you stack up. Everyone is welcome to compete, regardless of age or experience! This is a physical activity that requires the use of your whole body to successfully participate in. All of the required equipment will be provided for you. Personal equipment can be used, however the use of a seat harness is required. All personal gear will be inspected by the climbing competition staff, and the staff reserve the right to refuse gear that does not pass inspection. Prizes will be awarded by age group during the Saturday evening program. Staph are welcome to participate but will be in a separate category from event participants.
Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 3:30pm 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 6 Would you like to try rappelling? Here's your chance. No experience will be necessary. This will NOT be a "how to" workshop. You will be given basic instructions, put on the rope, and monitored on the descent. The rappel location is very scenic and is guaranteed to make you pucker before your 50-foot descent. For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 3:30pm 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 6 Experience the drop of a lifetime as you rappel through the sinkhole in the top of Carter Cave's Natural Bridge! Enjoy not only the experience of rappelling but also the natural beauty of the area as you descend over 60 feet into the bed of Cave Branch Stream. Thousands of people enjoy the view of our Natural Bridge from the ground up, but only a few get to enjoy the view from top down. Here is your chance to be one of the few! For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines. This trip requires a 1/4 mile walk from the Welcome Center to the Rappel Site.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Saturday 3:30pm 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 10 Cavers descend into deep pits to explore, but how do they get out? This trip will give you insight into the basics needed to ascend on a rope. You will be introduced to a system of rope ascending commonly used by cavers, and you will get a chance to do a rope climb silhouetted by Smoky Bridge. This is a physical activity that requires the use of your whole body to successfully participate in. We will provide you with all the necessary equipment including a climbing system and helmet. For your safety and comfort, you must be able to fit in the harness per manufacturer safety guidelines and be able to follow directions while on rope.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 4:00pm 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 6 Would you like to try rappelling? Here's your chance. No experience will be necessary. This will NOT be a "how to" workshop. You will be given basic instructions, put on the rope, and monitored on the descent. The rappel location is very scenic and is guaranteed to make you pucker before your 50-foot descent. For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Saturday 4:00pm 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 6 Experience the drop of a lifetime as you rappel through the sinkhole in the top of Carter Cave's Natural Bridge! Enjoy not only the experience of rappelling but also the natural beauty of the area as you descend over 60 feet into the bed of Cave Branch Stream. Thousands of people enjoy the view of our Natural Bridge from the ground up, but only a few get to enjoy the view from top down. Here is your chance to be one of the few! For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines. This trip requires a 1/4 mile walk from the Welcome Center to the Rappel Site.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Saturday 4:30pm 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 6 Experience the drop of a lifetime as you rappel through the sinkhole in the top of Carter Cave's Natural Bridge! Enjoy not only the experience of rappelling but also the natural beauty of the area as you descend over 60 feet into the bed of Cave Branch Stream. Thousands of people enjoy the view of our Natural Bridge from the ground up, but only a few get to enjoy the view from top down. Here is your chance to be one of the few! For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines. This trip requires a 1/4 mile walk from the Welcome Center to the Rappel Site.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Sunday 8:30am 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 10 Eastern KY has a rich and proud coal mining heritage. This trip will strive to show the participants what it was actually like to work in the mines with only the light of various flame lamps. From early clamshell lamps to carbide, the last flame lamp, this will be a history and hands on experience of how the miners did their hard work underground with barely enough light to see. We will have working original examples and explain the history of each type of mine light. You will see original photographs from the day of not only the miners, but also the kids as young as 6 years old that worked in the mines day in and day out. Trip will take place on the commercial routes of Cascade Cave. No Flashlights will be used, participants will be provided a carbide miners light (one light per two people) to light the path ahead.
You need: Old Clothes, Flashlight, Extra Batteries, Ankle-High Shoes, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Meets at lodge. Transportation required.
Sunday 9:00am 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 20 Cascade Cave has been developed for commercial tours, but the fun begins when you head into the darkness and leave the tourist route behind. Participant will get a chance to walk the commercial routes and enjoy the formations along with scrambling over breakdown, attempting some duck walking, and experiencing some hand and knee crawls. Cascade is one of the largest caves found at park, and in my opinion, this tour is one of the best ways to appreciate its size. This tour, unlike the commercial tour, will cause some of those assorted aches and pains associated with caving.
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at lodge. Transportation required.
Sunday 9:00am 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 10 Sandy Cave has a huge and long trunk passage that is part of the Cascade Cave system. It also provides some interesting areas that are accessed by crawling and climbing. The entrance is through a karst window with a 70-foot pool of deep water at its bottom. The guides intend to lower a john boat to the pool and offer a boat ride to dry land. This is subject to cancellation if potential flooding conditions occur. Participants must help carry the boat through the woods for 1/2 mile to the cave the Friday afternoon trip and from the cave on the 10:00 Sunday morning trip. This cave is only accessible during Winter Adventure Weekend!
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at lodge. Transportation required.
Sunday 9:00am 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 15 The group will hike from the Welcome Center to the back entrance of Horn Hollow Cave, visiting other cave entrances and karst features during the trip. Caving techniques, equipment, how the caves formed, and associated geologic features will be discussed during the trip. A low 100-foot belly crawl in Horn Hollow Cave is optional. There will be a total of 1.5 miles hiking above ground which includes several long, steep hills. Be prepared to dress appropriately for the weather and your feet may get wet in the cave.
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Sunday 9:30am 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 20 Find some hidden secrets in these wild and once often-visited park caves. Dripping dome rooms, scalloped rock passages, huge breakdown, a belly-crawl connection between caves, and a room filled with dozens of mini bathtub-like dams are just a few of the treasures you'll discover. These caves contain active streams. Be prepared to have wet feet, wet hands, possibly more if you slip! Water bottle/snack suggested. Total outdoor hike of at least 1.5 miles required over hilly terrain, so be mindful of the weather and dress appropriately!
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Sunday 9:30am 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 40 Bafflement, Discombobulation.Surprise!! These are just a few of the words that could potentially describe this free-for-all trip into Carter Caves State Resort Parks largest cave system! 40 spaces.2 sets of guides choose your adventure!! You get the whole package with the cave being a combination of dry, muddy and wet. How wet you get depends on how merciful your guide is.
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at lodge. Transportation required.
Sunday 9:30am 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 6 Would you like to try rappelling? Here's your chance. No experience will be necessary. This will NOT be a "how to" workshop. You will be given basic instructions, put on the rope, and monitored on the descent. The rappel location is very scenic and is guaranteed to make you pucker before your 50-foot descent. For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Sunday 9:30am 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 10 Like climbing trees? Recreational tree climbing is a popular high adventure activity that puts a twist to our backyard tree climbing pastime. We will cover what the traditional tree climbing schools are teaching, which is traditional double rope technique that involves using a modified hip thrust to pull themselves 20-40 feet off of the ground. The 2015 location will not only give you a great view, the classroom portion will be sheltered from the elements. Participants 15 years and under require parent or guardian supervision. Required equipment includes climbing appropriate gloves and warm clothing.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Sunday 10:00am 3 hours Level: 2 Limit: 10 Sandy Cave has a huge and long trunk passage that is part of the Cascade Cave system. It also provides some interesting areas that are accessed by crawling and climbing. The entrance is through a karst window with a 70-foot pool of deep water at its bottom. The guides intend to lower a john boat to the pool and offer a boat ride to dry land. This is subject to cancellation if potential flooding conditions occur. Participants must help carry the boat through the woods for 1/2 mile to the cave on the Friday afternoon trip and from the cave on the 10:00 Sunday morning trip. This cave is only accessible during Winter Adventure Weekend!
You need: Helmet, Chin Strap, Headlamp, 2 Extra Lights, Ankle-High Boots, Knee Pads, Gloves And More.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Meets at lodge. Transportation required.
Sunday 10:00am 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 6 Would you like to try rappelling? Here's your chance. No experience will be necessary. This will NOT be a "how to" workshop. You will be given basic instructions, put on the rope, and monitored on the descent. The rappel location is very scenic and is guaranteed to make you pucker before your 50-foot descent. For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Sunday 10:30am 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 6 Would you like to try rappelling? Here's your chance. No experience will be necessary. This will NOT be a "how to" workshop. You will be given basic instructions, put on the rope, and monitored on the descent. The rappel location is very scenic and is guaranteed to make you pucker before your 50-foot descent. For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Sunday 11:00am 1.5 hours Level: 2 Limit: 10 Like climbing trees? Recreational tree climbing is a popular high adventure activity that puts a twist to our backyard tree climbing pastime. We will cover what the traditional tree climbing schools are teaching, which is traditional double rope technique that involves using a modified hip thrust to pull themselves 20-40 feet off of the ground. The location will not only give you a great view, the classroom portion will be sheltered from the elements. Participants 15 years and under require parent or guardian supervision. Required equipment includes climbing appropriate gloves and warm clothing.
Trip Fee: $10.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.
Sunday 11:00am 1 hour Level: 2 Limit: 6 Would you like to try rappelling? Here's your chance. No experience will be necessary. This will NOT be a "how to" workshop. You will be given basic instructions, put on the rope, and monitored on the descent. The rappel location is very scenic and is guaranteed to make you pucker before your 50-foot descent. For your safety and comfort, there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, however you must also fit in the harness per manufacturer's safety guidelines.
Trip Fee: $5.00 - Follow signs from in front of lodge to site. No transportation required.