Outerthere's first caving trip was epic! Want to thank you guys for making this trip a real adventure! Huge thanks to Loui the Greek tractor guy, Tom the tow truck guy, John the mechanic, Rich and Laura for taking a chance on a pair of hitchhikers, Maylis’s friends who she hadn’t spoken to in years but called us back, and Dan and his awesome waitstaff at Jake Moon, who, without a doubt, saved our lives! Extra love and gratitude to Harn for making sh*t happen like Harn do and keeping me from passing out. Next caving trip Sept. Better ask somebody!
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I'm beyond stoked to introduce you to the first Starter Cave trip, a trip I'm organizing for a select few Outerthere Warriors! Recognized among the northeast caving community (yes, there's such a thing) as a great cave for beginners, this trip will introduce you (get you hooked on?) to the wonderful world of caving (aka spelunking to you old fashioned types).
It goes without saying that if you're uncomfortable in pitch black surroundings and tight spaces, this trip is not for you. The entire experience will last about 3 to 4 hours, requiring you to army crawl (boot camp anyone?) through a muddy hole in the ground, which'll have more bugs than you're probably accustomed to crawling over (I'm really selling it now, aren't I?)
Underground, there are large pools of water, a running river, and a mini waterfall, so we're also getting wet. But I promise that once you're in the cave and get through the whole experience, it'll be like nothing you've ever experienced before. Your senses will on fire. It's going to be epic. This trip is rated INTERMEDIATE.
The only way to get there is by car, so we're going to need a minimum of 3 people to make this trip happen (6 max). If you want to bring a friend, fine, but be selective. This trip is not for everyone and despite its difficulty rating, no one should take the risks for granted. We'll be meeting Saturday, Aug 9 at 8a at the Fairway Market in Chelsea at 766 Sixth Ave between 26th and 25th streets to get food, then driving up to the caving site right after. We'll be returning same day. We’re going rain or shine.
Here's how you need to pack (in no particular order, they're all important):
- We'll be crawling on our hands, knees, and bellies the entire time, over wet mud and rock. You want to wear your bummiest clothes that you were going to throw out anyway. Or perhaps your Carhartt coveralls that you only use when you work construction sites. Some cavers opt to wear neoprene wet suits, 3mm or less is recommended for this time of year. Don't forget a complete change of clothes stuffed in a garbage back, which you'll use after to stuff your dirty clothes in*.
- You want to remember an extra pair of underwear unless you prefer to roll commando afterwards. I won't judge you if you do.
- The cave is typically a constant 50-degrees all year round, and because you'll be in a constant state of stress, you won't get cold at all. In fact, you might overheat if you over dress. So, a single base layer and/or mid-layer is sufficient. Definitely bring additional warm layers for after the trip. (Note that 50-degree air produces 50-degree water, and the combination will make you chilly, risking hypothermia. You know how you are, so layer appropriately).
- Knee pads and elbow pads are a must.
- Helmet is a must.
- Footwear, anything goes, traction not an issue, but keep in mind, they won't be usable for anything else after you're done. Your sneaks, boots, sandals, everything will get wet, dirty, and totally wrecked.
- Three light sources, minimum, and don't forget batteries in zip locks. Headlamps are suggested. Regular flashlights can be used. Bring rubber bands.
- Ziplocks for your valuables and/or camera/phone. We'll be able to leave things in the car, but you definitely want to bring your camera.
- Some hands may get cold. Bring neoprene gloves (or gloves you just don't love anymore) or hand warmers.
*Note that when you get home, you'll have to thoroughly hose down/wash off all your gear.
Need gear? Rent some through our partners at Traverse Outfitters. Ask for Avi.