|
Hi all
Aug 8, 2006 16:22:10 GMT -5
Post by gbrass on Aug 8, 2006 16:22:10 GMT -5
I just wanted to say Hi, and I really enjoy this site.! There is a lot of usefull information here . I have quick question maybe someone could help with, I have been doing small caves since I was a little guy, and now that I'm not so little anymore I wanted to do bigger and better stuff. Is there a place where I can get locations and map drawings or do I need to join a grotto for all that kinda stuff?? anyways thanks for you help Gearld
|
|
Brian Roebuck
Site Admin
Caver
Caving - the one activity that really brings you to your knees!
Posts: 2,732
|
Hi all
Aug 8, 2006 17:15:52 GMT -5
Post by Brian Roebuck on Aug 8, 2006 17:15:52 GMT -5
Welcome to the forum. Let us know the general area where you live or intend to cave and a bit about yourself if you like. It will make it easier for other forum members to help you find a grotto or group to join up with. When I first started caving I tried to find locations of caves nearby. I was not too successful but managed to find a few. One of the problems with that approach is that you find ones that "everybody" knows about and they tend to be trashed or closed due to over visitation. Owners can get tired of frequent visitors no matter if they are respectful of the property or not. Eventually joining a grotto allowed me to find people I liked to cave with, learn about equipment and techniques, and be introduced to new caves as I progressed. The NSS is also a good source of information and support. Be aware that joining a grotto can sometimes be less than wonderful if you don't make an effort to be accepted. Find a friendly face and ask questions etc. to start out. Make sure you let people know your level of caving experience or limitations (be honest about it) and ask if anyone would be willing to lead you on a trip or two. Often if you sit there at a meeting and say nothing cavers are more than happy to let you continue to do just that. Usually you will get to go on a trip or two to see if you really enjoy caving and are up to others expectations. Expect to be tested along the way as your experience builds up and make sure you let trip leaders know your limits before the trip. This is important if for example you are afraid of heights, tight places, or have medical conditions that could impact a cave trip. Cavers are generally friendly and enjoy teaching newcomers the ropes if they are approached in the right way. Don't expect to learn all the secrets of caving in one day, be patient and respectful, and you should have a great time becoming a caver. Good luck and welcome to US Cavers Forum
|
|
L Roebuck
Technical Support
Caving
^V^ Just a caver
Posts: 2,023
|
Hi all
Aug 8, 2006 18:02:16 GMT -5
Post by L Roebuck on Aug 8, 2006 18:02:16 GMT -5
Hi gbrass! Welcome to the Forum ! I also recommend you start by joining a local grotto. Just let us know what state you live in and we would be happy to point you in the right direction. Safe Caving and Enjoy the Forum!
|
|
|
Hi all
Aug 8, 2006 18:16:08 GMT -5
Post by gbrass on Aug 8, 2006 18:16:08 GMT -5
Thanks to you two for the quick responces!! I live in Douglasville, Georgia, my experiences are like I said, I've done almost all the small caves, that are "well known" and yeah, they are well trashed. I have repelling ecperience, not afraid to follow Alice in wonderland's rabbit into a hole .Not afraid of heights. Just want to do something a little more. I have 3-5 people that I normally take with me on these 3-6 hour tours. I suppose it would be beneficial to let them tag along to a grotto meeting as well? Thanks Gearld
|
|
L Roebuck
Technical Support
Caving
^V^ Just a caver
Posts: 2,023
|
Hi all
Aug 8, 2006 19:34:48 GMT -5
Post by L Roebuck on Aug 8, 2006 19:34:48 GMT -5
I'd say Dogwood City Grotto Atlanta, GA may be the closest grotto and contact information, etc, is on the website. If your friends are interesting in caving they would probably like to tag along.
|
|