Frequently asked questions

What on earth is caving (i.e. what have I gotten myself into)? What are the caves like?

Caving (known in some countries as spelunking, potholing or caverneering) is the exploration of underground passages, tunnels, caverns and shafts. Washington presents a good variety of lava tubes and limestone caves. Some caves are warm, some cooler. Some caves are dusty, some muddy. Some caves consist of large passages you can walk through, others are more suited to crawling. Although our caves may not be as spectacular as caves in other parts of the world, our ones are special just the way they are.

Isn’t caving dangerous?

Accidents and injuries are uncommon on Cascade Grotto trips. By far the most dangerous part of any caving trip is the drive there and back! All of our trips will have approved leaders who are experienced cavers with relevant first aid knowledge. Safety is never compromised.

Will the caves have paths and hand rails?

No! These are wild, natural caves rather than tourist caves.

Can I take my camera?

Yes if you want to. Just be aware that caves are unforgiving and rough on gear. Our trip leaders regularly take photos they will be happy to share with you.

What trips are on? How do I sign up for trips?

You can find a list of trips and events on our online trip list. If you want to come on a trip, MAKE SURE YOU LET THE TRIP LEADER KNOW so that they can make arrangements. It is helpful to let the Trip Leader know the following:

• Full name
• Member or non-member (include Next of Kin contact details if you are a nonmember)
• Your telephone number
• Which trip you want to join AND which days you’ll be there
• If you need a lift OR if you can offer others a lift (including how many people you can take, the suburb you’re leaving from and what time you’ll be leaving)
• Any club gear you will need to borrow for the trip (e.g. helmet, headlamp, camping gear)
• How much caving experience you have
• Any injuries/medical conditions (e.g. asthma, dodgy knee, allergic to bees – this information is private and only used to choose the best caves to visit)

Can I come on a trip without being a member and then decide whether I want to join?

Yes!

I missed the Beginner Weekend!!!!

Many new members fear that they will miss out on special beginner orientation or training at the start of the year, but fear not! Beginners are welcome on all trips at any time of the year and we welcome new faces at any time. Don’t be scared of signing up – on most trips we have people with little or no caving experience. Our Trip Leaders will arrange for you to do activities that should be within your level of ability. So unless the trip list says that experience is required, just sign up for any trip and let the Trip Leader know you haven’t done much caving before. Bring a friend and have a ball together!

What do I need to bring? What gear do I need?

Clothes that can get muddy or damaged, knee pads and batteries for the headlights. A helpful checklist of basic caving equipment and camping equipment can be found here.

How do I get to caves if I don’t have a car?

Trip organisers arrange carpooling for all trips.

How much will it cost?

Generally the only costs for members are your share of the petrol and whatever groceries you bring!

Where will we stay?

It depends on the caving area you are visiting. Almost always this will involve camping.

Do I need special training?

Our trips require no previous training and are beginner-friendly unless the trip details specify otherwise.

How can I get involved?

Besides coming along to any of our awesome trips, throughout the year we have monthly meetings, which members and non-members alike are invited to attend. Watch out for Discord/Facebook notifications sent out beforehand for more information. These meetings are a great time to meet your fellow cavers, find out what trips everyone has been on, and ask any burning questions you have about caving. There are also exciting opportunities for you to learn and practise your technical skills (e.g. ascending) on our field days, or to meet fellow members at our other get-togethers.