Spelunking is a hobby that involves exploring and studying caves. It's a hobby that requires physical fitness, mental preparation, and proper equipment. As you progress, you can learn different techniques for exploring and mapping caves, as well as identifying and appreciating the unique geological, biological and anthropological features of a cave. It's a hobby that is both physically and mentally challenging, and also can be quite rewarding. Spelunking can be enjoyed by people of all skill levels and backgrounds, from beginners to experienced cavers, there is always room for discovery and new challenges to tackle. Whether you're looking to explore the underground world, or to learn more about the natural history of the earth, spelunking offers a fun and rewarding experience.
Secondary lighting in case primary fails
Area of fallen rock creating obstacles
Practices protecting cave environments
Specialized backpack designed for underground use
Network of connected underground passages and chambers
Large open space within cave system
Essential terms every beginner should know
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Common terms and definitions at a glance
25 terms organized alphabetically
Practices protecting cave environments
Example: "Cave conservation preserves formations"
Specialized backpack designed for underground use
Example: "Cave packs resist abrasion"
Network of connected underground passages and chambers
Example: "The cave system extended for miles"
Large open space within cave system
Example: "The chamber was cathedral-sized"
Formation where stalactite and stalagmite meet
Example: "The column supported the ceiling"
Navigation instrument for determining direction
Example: "Use compass to maintain bearing"
Low passage requiring hands and knees navigation
Example: "The crawlway went on forever"
Cave formation created by mineral deposits
Example: "Speleothems take thousands of years"
Tight passage requiring body contortion to pass
Example: "The squeeze required removing gear"
Mineral formation hanging from cave ceiling
Example: "Stalactites hang tight from ceiling"
Mineral formation growing up from cave floor
Example: "Stalagmites might reach the ceiling"
Mapping cave passages with measurements
Example: "The survey revealed new passages"
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