Caving Adventures

Guided Caving and Spelunking Near DC, Maryland and Virginia

Voluntary Caving Moratorium – Response to Spread of White-Nose Syndrome among bat populations…

With nearly 2500 explored caves in West Virginia alone, caves can be found in almost every state in the US.  These unique and delicate ecosystems are home to some of the most beautiful cave structures (speleotherms) as well as a myriad of wildlife, some of which spends its entire life cycle in underground darkness.  Join us for our Introduction to Caving Series, which takes place at Whiting’s Neck Cave, near Martinsburg, WV.

How It Works:

Designed for groups of 4 to 16, the Introduction to Caving consists of two options:

Level 1 – Introduction to Caving

We’ll meet your group at the Yankauer Nature Preserve and hike out to Whiting’s Neck Cave.  From here, your group will enter the upper chambers of the cave, and explore tight passages, large caverns, and exit through (or over) the “keyhole” a challenging concave hole in the rock through which you must pass your head – then shoulders – then the rest of you – before squeezing out the other side.

  • Equipment
  • Movement Techniques
  • Basic Exploration

Level 2 – Intermediate

For groups who have completed the Introduction to Caving, or have previous caving experience, we return to Whiting’s Neck for “The Drop” a 60-foot rappel into the lower chambers of the cave.  Here spelunkers will explore the less-traveled and more beautiful/challenging parts of the cave before ascending the rope and exiting through the keyhole – or back the way they came in…

  • Basic Rappelling
  • Basic Ascending
  • Guided Exploration

Who It Works For:

Due to the highly physical nature of cave movement, participants should have a reasonable fitness level, and be 10 years-old or older.

  • Adult Social Groups
  • Youth Groups
  • School Groups
  • Camps
  • Scouts
  • University Clubs
  • Sports Teams
  • Anyone interested in an introduction to the beauty and challenge of caving and spelunking.

What It Costs:

The Introduction to Caving Series can be highly instructional, or can be more of a recreational day-out.  For groups on a tight budget, we can provide high quality instruction at a reduced rate – with a few restrictions in the amount of instruction offered.  Or, if you prefer in-depth, instruction and experience, we can provide excellent guides who will create a program that focus on a unique caving experience.

Here is an example of our method of pricing:

Program:  Level 1 – Introduction to Caving
Season:  Summer
Time:  6 hours
Group:  10 participants
Group Classification:  Youth Camp
Event Location:  Whiting’s Neck Cave
Price:  $650**

**Please Note:  This is only one example of our method of pricing. Please contact us to negotiate a price that fits your group goals and budget.