I Found Myself in a Cave
On the way out of the cave, though, I discovered something really important about rappelling. One can only rappel down and not up--and "down" was the easy part. I was ready to be harnessed up and pulled out of the cave, but now that we were down in the hole, the only way up was to free climb with a safety rope attached. Getting out at the top was extremely tricky and required a maneuver around a small overhang of rock. We drew on all the strength we could muster, and that section of the climb took each of us a good deal of time to negotiate. At one point, I even wondered if we all could actually get out. My friend knew we could do it, though, but this was one of those times when I was glad my mother did not know what I was doing. When we finally got out, we had to walk at least a mile back to the car, wet feet and all. But it didn't matter. I had overcome!
Having said that, should everyone run out and explore a cave? Never, unless you have someone experienced to help you! My friend had done this for years, even underwater cave diving, and had the expertise and proper equipment. We also registered our presence with the Carter Cave visitor center so if we did not return, they would know we needed help.
Carter Cave Resort park is located near Olive Hill, Kentucky. You can obtain information here:
So, you really want to try spelunking? The 25th annual Carter Caves Crawlathon will be held in January, 2006. You'll find experienced cavers as well as those who have never been caving before at this annual event. Check it out at:
Related Articles:
Caving by Patrice Bentham
Underground America by Bambi L. Dingman
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