Naturalist Week - Bertha Cave Explorers

Learn what makes cave ecosystems so delicate and special in this adventure where you will have the opportunity to see unique formations and animals that only exist in caves.

This is not a walking cave tour. Participants must be able to bend, stoop, duck, crawl, scoot, crouch, and balance in uneven terrain without handrails. This tour is moderately strenuous and not recommended if you have a heart condition, breathing issues, poor balance, trouble walking, issues climbing stairs, or have back, knee, hip, ankle, foot problems or have claustrophobia.  

All participants are required to wear provided helmets, headlamps, gloves, and knee pads (unless you are providing your own). Participants must wear clothes that can get very dirty and muddy (moisture-wicking fabrics and not cotton), as well as non-slip close-toed shoes. Open-toe shoes will not be permitted. The cave temperature is 49°F or 9°C; wear appropriate clothing like long pants and a light jacket or sweater to spend an hour and twenty minutes in the cool temperatures. Please bring water and snacks in a personal small day pack, and a change of clothes is also recommended.

To protect the resource, visitors are asked not to touch the cave walls or features along the route. No tobacco products of any kind allowed. Pets are not allowed.

Registration is required since space is limited to 10. Please call (276) 699-6778 to register. The $20 fee per participant is waived for Naturalist Week. There is an age requirement which is strictly enforced for safety reasons. Youth participants must be at least 10 years old. The adventure will begin at the Boat and Bike Shop at Foster Falls. 

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