Would you like to try rappelling? Here's your chance. No experience will be necessary. This will NOT be a "how to" workshop. You'll be given basic instructions, put on the rope, and monitored on the descent. Required equipment includes leather gloves and a hard hat with a chin strap. Follow signs in front of lodge to the site.

Saturday 8:30am
TRIP #4: Up For Idiots (Level 2) - Duration: 1.5 hours - Limit: 10 people - Status: 10 Spots Open

Now that you have rappelled into the pit you have to get out, right? This trip will give you a taste of what is needed to ascend out of that pit you may someday find yourself at the bottom of. You will be introduced to a basic system of rope ascending commonly used by cavers and you will get a chance to do a rope climb. These same techniques are used whether you need to climb 12ft. or 1200ft. Down for Dummies may get you to the bottom, but you'll need us to get you out! Leather gloves and a hard hat with a chin strap is required. Don't have a hard hat with a chin strap, no worries we can provide one. Follow signs in front of lodge to the site.

Saturday 8:30am
TRIP #5: History of Mine Lighting (Level 1) - Duration: 3 hours - Limit: 10 people - Status: 10 Spots Open

Eastern KY has a rich and proud coal mining heritage. This trip will strive to show the participants what it was actually like to work in the mines with only the light of various flame lamps. From early clamshell lamps to carbide, the last flame lamp, this will be a history and hands on experience of how the miners did their hard work underground with barely enough light to see. We will have working original examples and explain the history of each type of mine light. See original photographs from the day of not only the miners, but the kids as young as 6 years old that worked in the mines day in and day out. Trip will take place on the commercial routes of Cascade Cave. No Flashlights will be used , participants will be provided a carbide miners light (one light per two people) to light the path ahead. Meets at lodge; transportation needed.

Saturday 8:30am
TRIP #6: Geocaching at Carter Caves (Level 1) - Duration: 1.5 hours - Limit: 20 people - Status: 20 Spots Open

Do you like the outdoors? How about gadgets and gizmos? We have the perfect activity to combine both. Geocaching is a fairly new sport that uses the internet, GPS units, and a sense of adventure in the outdoors to send you on a scavenger hunt like no other. Growing in popularity by the day, there are over 800,000 active Geocaches found around the world. Don't have a GPS unit? Don't worry! We will provide the instruments and instruction on how to begin participating in this World Wide Phenomenon! Meets at the Welcome Center; transportation needed.

Saturday 8:30am
TRIP #7: The "8800" Trek (Level 2) - Duration: 3 hours - Limit: 18 people - Status: 18 Spots Open

Can you count to 8800? Find out as you trek into the wilderness with us. You will hike alongside big sandstone cliffs, through three Natural Bridges, visit scenic overlooks of Smoky Lake and see what nature has to offer during the winter at Carter Caves. It takes 8800 steps to complete this adventure. No other visitors will know you were there, since we will learn and practice Leave No Trace hiking principles along the way. Meets at the lodge.

Saturday 9:00am
TRIP #8: Cliff to Cliff High Line Ride (Level 2) - Duration: 1.5 hours - Limit: 10 people - Status: 10 Spots Open

Now that you have had the chance to go down a rope and up a rope we are introducing the concept of across the rope. That's right a 300ft long high line will be stretched across a 50ft gorge for your amusement. We will strap you in and you can take a ride to remember. Make sure you bring your cameras for there will be some great photo opportunities. The company Passages To Adventure from Fayetteville, West Virginia will set up and operate the high line trips. Note additional waiver form will be required to sign on-site for all participants. Follow signs in front of lodge to the site.

Saturday 9:00am
TRIP #9: Corrugated Cave (Level 1) - Duration: 1 hours - Limit: 10 people - Status: 10 Spots Open

Yet another rendition of the cardboard box cave. Bring a light (NOT carbide) but you can leave your shoes & helmet behind. Dress lightly, it's strenuous and can get stuff in the cave. Must be at least 10 years old to participate. Follow signs from the lobby to the basement.

Saturday 9:00am
TRIP #10: Recreational Tree Climbing (Level 2) - Duration: 1.5 hours - Limit: 6 people - Status: 6 Spots Open

Like climbing trees? Recreational tree climbing is a popular high adventure activity that puts a twist to our backyard tree climbing pastime. We will cover what the traditional tree climbing schools are teaching, which is traditional double rope technique that involves using a modified hip thrust to pull themselves 20-40 feet off of the ground. A familiarity activity that involves accessing the tree recreationally. This is a strenuous high adventure activity. Participants 15yrs & under require parent or guardian supervision. Required equipment includes climbing appropriate gloves, a hard hat with a chin strap and warm clothing. Meets at lodge.

Saturday 9:00am
TRIP #11: Walking in the Footsteps of Pre-historic Stone Age People (Level 2) - Duration: 1.5 hours - Limit: 10 people - Status: 10 Spots Open

This activity will actually take participants into archaeological sites that had been used for many thousands of years. There will be an opportunity to see where Aboriginal visitors camped and lived during seasonal visits to the area that is now part of Carter Caves Resort Park. Depending on the level of interest there will be an opportunity to examine at least 14 archaeological sites. Also, participants may assist in a surface reconnaissance review to determine the extent of what may be an unreported large open habitation site. Nothing will be collected but we will make note of what is observed and include the information in a report that is being prepared for the Office of the State Archaeologist. This is an opportunity to actually see, walk through, and study sites that have a pre-historic significance. Materials will be made available to participants to actually see what archaeological evidence has been discovered in the County. This will be a "touch activity" and not like visiting a museum where nothing may be contacted. You will have the opportunity to actually participate in an archaeological investigation. Meet at the lodge.

Saturday 9:00am
TRIP #12: Surface Karst Features of CCSRP (Level 3) - Duration: 7 hours - Limit: 20 people - Status: 20 Spots Open

A multi-mile hike through much of the park demonstrating a variety of karst features ranging from streams, springs, cave entrances, karst windows, and arches. Time permitting, various sandstone features can be visited as well (caves, arches, springs).

Saturday 9:30am
TRIP #13: Winter Survival Workshop (Level 1) - Duration: 3 hours - Limit: 25 people - Status: 25 Spots Open

Winter survival will involve the fundamentals of survival methodology and mindset, along with practical application and skill building for specifics including shelter, fire basics, water, food, and signaling. Meets at lodge; transportation needed.

Saturday 9:30am
TRIP #14: Visit To X Cave (Level 1) - Duration: 1 hours - Limit: 30 people - Status: 30 Spots Open

A commercially lit tour of X-Cave. X-Cave has two vertical joint passages that meander through a large layer of limestone which puts you up-close to many beautiful cave formations. Some of the highlighted features include turkey rock, the pipe organ, and the giant column which is the largest cave formation found at the park. Be aware of your surroundings and you will discover how this cave became known as "X-Cave." Meets at Welcome Center; transportation needed.

Saturday 9:30am
TRIP #15: Down For Dummies (Level 2) - Duration: 1.5 hours - Limit: 10 people - Status: 10 Spots Open

Would you like to try rappelling? Here's your chance. No experience will be necessary. This will NOT be a "how to" workshop. You'll be given basic instructions, put on the rope, and monitored on the descent. Required equipment includes leather gloves and a hard hat with a chin strap. Follow signs in front of lodge to the site.

Saturday 9:30am
TRIP #16: Tygart's Creek Regretta (Level 4) - Duration: 5 hours - Limit: 14 people - Status: 14 Spots Open

This is a 6-mile canoe trip that navigates you through the Tygart's Creek Gorge. Kentucky's most scenic limestone gorge. You will be on the creek for at least 4 hours. It is cold and wet, especially if you swamp! Because of the remoteness of the gorge and limited access, there is no turning back once you start. Canoes, paddles, and vests will be provided. You should bring waterproof containers for caving gear, polypro and/or wool clothes, change of clothes (wet suit, a recommended option), drink, and lunch or snack. This trip can be canceled if the creek is frozen over. If this happens you can cancel your registration and receive a full refund or we can register you for other trips during the weekend. Meets at lodge; transportation provided.

Saturday 9:30am
TRIP #17: Bridges Of Carter County - On Rappel!!! (Level 4) - Duration: 7 hours - Limit: 15 people - Status: 15 Spots Open

Join us in dropping the three largest natural bridges at Carter Caves.......We will drop Smokey (25'), Natural (50') and Fern (80') Bridges. Each has something unique to offer. This is not an instructional trip, you should be well versed in caving SRT (i.e., no 'Aussie' rappels). Equipment required: Helmet with chin strap, harness, rappel rack or figure eight (no other rappel devices will be acceptable), quick attach safety (handled ascender on a sling), an extra 2' - 3' sling with carabineers on each end, sufficient carabineers for your system, rappel gloves, appropriate clothing for outdoor rappelling in January, including a heavy coat such as a down parka for wearing while waiting your turn at each drop, and potentially rain gear if precipitation is forecast. To save time, please have your harness on when you show up for the trip. EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS WILL BE RUTHLESSLY ENFORCED. You must be 18 yrs or older to participate. Anyone who does not exhibit safe practices at all times will be removed from the trip. Meets at lodge; transportation needed.

Saturday 10:00am
TRIP #18: Cliff to Cliff High Line Ride (Level 2) - Duration: 1.5 hours - Limit: 10 people - Status: 10 Spots Open

Now that you have had the chance to go down a rope and up a rope we are introducing the concept of across the rope. That's right a 300ft long high line will be stretched across a 50ft gorge for your amusement. We will strap you in and you can take a ride to remember. Make sure you bring your cameras for there will be some great photo opportunities. The company Passages To Adventure from Fayetteville, West Virginia will set up and operate the high line trips. Note additional waiver form will be required to sign on-site for all participants. Follow signs in front of lodge to the site.

Saturday 10:00am
TRIP #19: Corrugated Cave (Level 1) - Duration: 1 hours - Limit: 10 people - Status: 10 Spots Open

Yet another rendition of the cardboard box cave. Bring a light (NOT carbide) but you can leave your shoes & helmet behind. Dress lightly, it's strenuous and can get stuff in the cave. Must be at least 10 years old to participate. Follow signs from the lobby to the basement.

Saturday 10:00am
TRIP #20: Up For Idiots (Level 2) - Duration: 1.5 hours - Limit: 10 people - Status: 10 Spots Open

Now that you have rappelled into the pit you have to get out, right? This trip will give you a taste of what is needed to ascend out of that pit you may someday find yourself at the bottom of. You will be introduced to a basic system of rope ascending commonly used by cavers and you will get a chance to do a rope climb. These same techniques are used whether you need to climb 12ft. or 1200ft. Down for Dummies may get you to the bottom, but you'll need us to get you out! Leather gloves and a hard hat with a chin strap is required. Don't have a hard hat with a chin strap, no worries we can provide one. Follow signs in front of lodge to the site.

Saturday 10:30am
TRIP #21: Visit To Cascade Cave (Level 1) - Duration: 2 hours - Limit: 60 people - Status: 60 Spots Open

Cascade is the largest commercial cave in Carter County. You will experience large cave passageways, bats, beautiful cave formations and finish with a look at a 30 foot underground waterfall. This is a walking tour with some stooping and bending. Meets at Welcome Center; transportation needed.

Saturday 10:30am
TRIP #22: Down For Dummies (Level 2) - Duration: 1.5 hours - Limit: 10 people - Status: 10 Spots Open

Would you like to try rappelling? Here's your chance. No experience will be necessary. This will NOT be a "how to" workshop. You'll be given basic instructions, put on the rope, and monitored on the descent. Required equipment includes leather gloves and a hard hat with a chin strap. Follow signs in front of lodge to the site.

Saturday 10:30am
TRIP #23: Recreational Tree Climbing (Level 2) - Duration: 1.5 hours - Limit: 6 people - Status: 6 Spots Open

Like climbing trees? Recreational tree climbing is a popular high adventure activity that puts a twist to our backyard tree climbing pastime. We will cover what the traditional tree climbing schools are teaching, which is traditional double rope technique that involves using a modified hip thrust to pull themselves 20-40 feet off of the ground. A familiarity activity that involves accessing the tree recreationally. This is a strenuous high adventure activity. Participants 15yrs & under require parent or guardian supervision. Required equipment includes climbing appropriate gloves, a hard hat with a chin strap and warm clothing. Meets at lodge.

Saturday 10:30am
TRIP #24: Geocaching at Carter Caves (Level 1) - Duration: 1.5 hours - Limit: 20 people - Status: 20 Spots Open

Do you like the outdoors? How about gadgets and gizmos? We have the perfect activity to combine both. Geocaching is a fairly new sport that uses the internet, GPS units, and a sense of adventure in the outdoors to send you on a scavenger hunt like no other. Growing in popularity by the day, there are over 800,000 active Geocaches found around the world. Don't have a GPS unit? Don't worry! We will provide the instruments and instruction on how to begin participating in this World Wide Phenomenon! Meets at Welcome Center; transportation needed.

Saturday 10:30am
TRIP #25: Flashlight Tour of X-Cave (Level 1) - Duration: 1 hours - Limit: 25 people - Status: 25 Spots Open

View X-Cave in a way that most visitors do not... by flashlight only. We will turn out the commercial lights of the cave and cruise the passages with your flashlights. A dependable light source is required for every participant. Meets at Welcome Center; transportation needed.

Saturday 11:00am
TRIP #26: Cliff to Cliff High Line Ride (Level 2) - Duration: 1.5 hours - Limit: 10 people - Status: 10 Spots Open

Now that you have had the chance to go down a rope and up a rope we are introducing the concept of across the rope. That's right a 300ft long high line will be stretched across a 50ft gorge for your amusement. We will strap you in and you can take a ride to remember. Make sure you bring your cameras for there will be some great photo opportunities. The company Passages To Adventure from Fayetteville, West Virginia will set up and operate the high line trips. Note additional waiver form will be required to sign on-site for all participants. Follow signs in front of lodge to the site.

Saturday 11:00am
TRIP #27: Corrugated Cave (Level 1) - Duration: 1 hours - Limit: 10 people - Status: 10 Spots Open

Yet another rendition of the cardboard box cave. Bring a light (NOT carbide) but you can leave your shoes & helmet behind. Dress lightly, it's strenuous and can get stuff in the cave. Must be at least 10 years old to participate. Follow signs from the lobby to the basement.

Saturday 11:00am
TRIP #28: Walking in the Footsteps of Pre-historic Stone Age People (Level 2) - Duration: 1.5 hours - Limit: 10 people - Status: 10 Spots Open

This activity will actually take participants into archaeological sites that had been used for many thousands of years. There will be an opportunity to see where Aboriginal visitors camped and lived during seasonal visits to the area that is now part of Carter Caves Resort Park. Depending on the level of interest there will be an opportunity to examine at least 14 archaeological sites. Also, participants may assist in a surface reconnaissance review to determine the extent of what may be an unreported large open habitation site. Nothing will be collected but we will make note of what is observed and include the information in a report that is being prepared for the Office of the State Archaeologist. This is an opportunity to actually see, walk through, and study sites that have a pre-historic significance. Materials will be made available to participants to actually see what archaeological evidence has been discovered in the County. This will be a "touch activity" and not like visiting a museum where nothing may be contacted. You will have the opportunity to actually participate in an archaeological investigation. Meet at the lodge.