Carter Caves State Resort Park
Winter Adventure Weekend
January 27-29, 2012
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Field Trip Descriptions
Friday 6:00pm Have you ever been on a scavenger hunt at night? What about on one using a GPS system? We have placed several geocaches along the golf course for this fun evening activity. Use your flashlight and GPS to locate special reflective markers to lead you to your treasure, careful though if it moves it could be some of the nocturnal nightlife found in the area. The caches will contain small trade items, if you want bring something along to trade. This activity is appropriate for all age levels. Dress for the outdoors and bring a flashlight and GPS. If you don't have a GPS but want to experience the fun, we can team you up with one of our GPS units. A list of coordinates will be given out at the registration table from 6:00pm - 7:30pm in the lobby of the lodge. Meets at lodge. No transportation required.
Friday 8:00pm If Robert Thomas Tolliver II had a Facebook page, the Activities and Interests section on his profile page would read: Coal Mining, History, Union Start-Ups, Mine Mechanics, 19th Century Life, and Early American Mining. Come on over to Cascade Cave on Friday night to ""friend"" Tommy Tolliver, get his current status updates, and tag yourself in his photos! This program starts inside of Cascade Cave at 8pm. So head for the cave to experience this great adventure as history comes alive! CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO (Participants please do not wear any clothing or shoes that have been in another cave or mine outside of the Carter Caves area since 2006. This possibly will help prevent the spread of White Nose Syndrome, a disease that is killing bats across the Eastern United States. Because of the seriousness of WNS, all participants are required to walk across a bio-mat containing Lysol I.C. solution at the end of the cave trip.) Meets at Cascade Cave. Transportation required.
Saturday 8:30am 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. (Participants please do not wear any clothing or shoes that have been in another cave or mine outside of the Carter Caves area since 2006. This possibly will help prevent the spread of White Nose Syndrome, a disease that is killing bats across the Eastern United States. Because of the seriousness of WNS, all participants are required to walk across a bio-mat containing Lysol I.C. solution at the end of the cave trip.) Meets at lodge . Transportation required.
Saturday 9:00am Drop in - no registration required. Do you like tight places? Come find out just how tight of a space you can mentally and physically squeeze through. Due to the nature of their amusement, cavers have always wondered how tight of a place they can fit through. That was when the squeeze box was invented and later constructed. Here is the way it works. There will be 3 different categories: adult competition (15yrs - 39yrs), troglobite competition (40yrs & up) and the kids competition (6-14yrs). We will have preliminary rounds from 9am-12pm & 1pm-4pm on Saturday in the fields facility of the Lodge. Adults and troglobite competitors must drop in during these times to attempt to qualify for the finals held on Saturday night. In the adult competition, the top four male contenders along with the top four female contenders in each weight class will advance to the finals. In the troglobite category the top four male and female competitors will advance. The winners in each adult & troglobite category will receive a prize ribbon, sign the squeeze box and best of all have bragging rights until next years competition. Adult & troglobite finalist will be posted in the lobby by 5:00pm. In the kids competition, kids ages 6-14yrs old can take a stab at the squeeze box during the preliminary competitions held on Saturday. We have set different categories for children and will keep track of the records throughout the day. The child that squeezes through the box at the lowest height in each weight category will be determined the winner. The winners of the kid's squeeze box competition will be posted by 5:00pm in the lobby of the lodge. Kid's competition winners in each weight category will win a prize ribbon. The ribbons will be awarded before the adult squeeze box competition. Meets in the fields facility. No transportation required.
Saturday 9:00am Drop in - no registration required. This is an EXTREME cardboard maze that is adventurous for both adults and kids. You will encounter extensive crawling passages and some constrictive spaces during this trip. The passages simulate conditions often encountered by cavers in the area's wild caves. The corrugated cave has undergone some renovations since last year. Bring a light (NOT carbide!) but you can leave your shoes & helmet behind. Dress lightly, it is strenuous and can get stuffy in the cave. Knee pads are a good option if you have them. We allow 10 people maximum in the cave at one time, therefore a short wait may occur. Children 10 years old and under need parental supervision in order to participate. Follow signs from lobby to basement. No transportation required.
Saturday 9:00am The elusive Bigfoot has remained a mystery because he practices Leave No Trace to preserve his environment. Meet Trek and Track, the fun hiking boots that use interactive activities, targeted towards the younger generation (ages 6-10) to introduce you to the principles of Leave No Trace. Each participant will receive a Leave No Trace backpack tag. Meets at Cottage 248 . Transportation required.
Saturday 9:30am Winter survival will involve the fundamentals of survival methodology and mindset. This workshop will include practical application and skill building for specifics including shelter, fire basics, water, food, and signaling. You will be outside during this workshop so dress appropriately for the weather elements. Meets at lodge . Transportation required.
Saturday 9:30am 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. Keep your eyes peeled and you may see some of the resident big brown bats hibernating in X-Cave. (Participants please do not wear any clothing or shoes that have been in another cave or mine outside of the Carter Caves area since 2006. This possibly will help prevent the spread of White Nose Syndrome, a disease that is killing bats across the Eastern United States. Because of the seriousness of WNS, all participants are required to walk across a bio-mat containing Lysol I.C. solution at the end of the cave trip.) Meets at Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Saturday 10:00am Drop in - no registration required. Do you like tight places? Come find out just how tight of a space you can mentally and physically squeeze through. Due to the nature of their amusement, cavers have always wondered how tight of a place they can fit through. That was when the squeeze box was invented and later constructed. Here is the way it works. There will be 3 different categories: adult competition (15yrs - 39yrs), troglobite competition (40yrs & up) and the kids competition (6-14yrs). We will have preliminary rounds from 9am-12pm & 1pm-4pm on Saturday in the fields facility of the Lodge. Adults and troglobite competitors must drop in during these times to attempt to qualify for the finals held on Saturday night. In the adult competition, the top four male contenders along with the top four female contenders in each weight class will advance to the finals. In the troglobite category the top four male and female competitors will advance. The winners in each adult & troglobite category will receive a prize ribbon, sign the squeeze box and best of all have bragging rights until next years competition. Adult & troglobite finalist will be posted in the lobby by 5:00pm. In the kids competition, kids ages 6-14yrs old can take a stab at the squeeze box during the preliminary competitions held on Saturday. We have set different categories for children and will keep track of the records throughout the day. The child that squeezes through the box at the lowest height in each weight category will be determined the winner. The winners of the kid's squeeze box competition will be posted by 5:00pm in the lobby of the lodge. Kid's competition winners in each weight category will win a prize ribbon. The ribbons will be awarded before the adult squeeze box competition. Meets in fields facility. No transportation required.
Saturday 10:00am Drop in - no registration required. This is an EXTREME cardboard maze that is adventurous for both adults and kids. You will encounter extensive crawling passages and some constrictive spaces during this trip. The passages simulate conditions often encountered by cavers in the area's wild caves. The corrugated cave has undergone some renovations since last year. Bring a light (NOT carbide!) but you can leave your shoes & helmet behind. Dress lightly, it is strenuous and can get stuffy in the cave. Knee pads are a good option if you have them. We allow 10 people maximum in the cave at one time, therefore a short wait may occur. Children 10 years old and under need parental supervision in order to participate. Follow signs from lobby to basement. No transportation required.
Saturday 10:00am Drop in - no registration required. A Saturday mini-presentation. Basic information on three popular types of bicycling: road, cyclocross and mountain biking. There will also be information on cycling opportunities in the area along with a presentation on basic bicycle maintenance and repair. Presented by members of Ashland Cycling Enthusiasts. Meets in fields facility. No transportation required.
Saturday 10:30am 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 commercially lit walking tour with some stooping and bending. Kenny the Real McCoy will be your guide and provide you with one uniquely delivered cave tour. (Participants please do not wear any clothing or shoes that have been in another cave or mine outside of the Carter Caves area since 2006. This possibly will help prevent the spread of White Nose Syndrome, a disease that is killing bats across the Eastern United States. Because of the seriousness of WNS, all participants are required to walk across a bio-mat containing Lysol I.C. solution at the end of the cave trip.) Meets at Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Saturday 10:30am Do you like the outdoors and modern technology? How about gadgets and gizmos? We have the perfect activity to combine both. A great family activity, geocaching uses the internet, GPS units, and a sense of adventure in the outdoors to send you on a scavenger hunt like no other. You can bring your own GPS but don't worry; we'll have extras if you don't have one. We'll provide the instruments and instruction on how to begin participating in this world wide phenomenon! Following a instructional presentation, you will put your new found skills to the test by venturing outdoors to find some specially placed caches. Meets at Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Saturday 10:30am Bat Conservation through Cave Conservation, Restoration and Preservation: a field trip that will take you to several caves on the park with a discussion on bat species' natural and life history, the gating of Laurel Cave, and protection and ongoing conservation and restoration efforts at Saltpeter Cave. This trip will lead us to the small building protecting the Abe's Room sinkhole culvert. Then off to the entrance of Bat Cave to discuss the gating and flood control efforts that are on-going at this critical site where conservation and preservation efforts intersect. Other cave and bat conservation work in Kentucky will be discussed along with current conservation efforts necessitated by the threat of White Nose Syndrome. This trip will be led by Michael Baker, Eastern Rare Bats Program Coordinator, for Bat Conservation International and Brooke Hines, Bat Ecologist for the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. Together they have over 30 yrs of Bat protection experience. Meets at Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Saturday 11:00am Drop in - no registration required. Do you like tight places? Come find out just how tight of a space you can mentally and physically squeeze through. Due to the nature of their amusement, cavers have always wondered how tight of a place they can fit through. That was when the squeeze box was invented and later constructed. Here is the way it works. There will be 3 different categories: adult competition (15yrs - 39yrs), troglobite competition (40yrs & up) and the kids competition (6-14yrs). We will have preliminary rounds from 9am-12pm & 1pm-4pm on Saturday in the fields facility of the Lodge. Adults and troglobite competitors must drop in during these times to attempt to qualify for the finals held on Saturday night. In the adult competition, the top four male contenders along with the top four female contenders in each weight class will advance to the finals. In the troglobite category the top four male and female competitors will advance. The winners in each adult & troglobite category will receive a prize ribbon, sign the squeeze box and best of all have bragging rights until next years competition. Adult & troglobite finalist will be posted in the lobby by 5:00pm. In the kids competition, kids ages 6-14yrs old can take a stab at the squeeze box during the preliminary competitions held on Saturday. We have set different categories for children and will keep track of the records throughout the day. The child that squeezes through the box at the lowest height in each weight category will be determined the winner. The winners of the kid's squeeze box competition will be posted by 5:00pm in the lobby of the lodge. Kid's competition winners in each weight category will win a prize ribbon. The ribbons will be awarded before the adult squeeze box competition. Meets in fields facility. No transportation required.
Saturday 11:00am Drop in - no registration required. This is an EXTREME cardboard maze that is adventurous for both adults and kids. You will encounter extensive crawling passages and some constrictive spaces during this trip. The passages simulate conditions often encountered by cavers in the area's wild caves. The corrugated cave has undergone some renovations since last year. Bring a light (NOT carbide!) but you can leave your shoes & helmet behind. Dress lightly, it is strenuous and can get stuffy in the cave. Knee pads are a good option if you have them. We allow 10 people maximum in the cave at one time, therefore a short wait may occur. Children 10 years old and under need parental supervision in order to participate. Follow signs from lobby to basement. No transportation required.
Saturday 11:00am Drop in - no registration required. A Saturday mini-presentation. In March 2011 Andy ""Captain Blue"" Niekamp set out on a hiking journey from Dayton on Ohio's Buckeye Trail. His goal was to hike on the Buckeye Trail for as long as it was fun. Over 1,400 miles and 88 days later Captain Blue returned to Dayton on the Buckeye Trail, the longest circular trail in the nation. His presentation will take you on a foot journey around Ohio with his beautiful photos and narrative. Come get acquainted with Ohio's backyard trail. Andy is the 6th person to complete a thru hike of the Buckeye Trail. Meets in fields facility. No transportation required.
Saturday 12:00pm Drop in - no registration required. A Saturday mini-presentation. Cathie Vickers presents her success story where she lost over 100 pounds and has maintained the weight loss with a passion for backpacking, hiking and kayaking. Join Cathie as she presents a photo journey of her adventures. Meets in fields facility. No transportation required.
Saturday 12:30pm 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.(Participants please do not wear any clothing or shoes that have been in another cave or mine outside of the Carter Caves area since 2006. This possibly will help prevent the spread of White Nose Syndrome, a disease that is killing bats across the Eastern United States. Because of the seriousness of WNS, all participants are required to walk across a bio-mat containing Lysol I.C. solution at the end of the cave trip.) Meets at lodge . Transportation required.
Saturday 1:00pm Drop in - no registration required. Do you like tight places? Come find out just how tight of a space you can mentally and physically squeeze through. Due to the nature of their amusement, cavers have always wondered how tight of a place they can fit through. That was when the squeeze box was invented and later constructed. Here is the way it works. There will be 3 different categories: adult competition (15yrs - 39yrs), troglobite competition (40yrs & up) and the kids competition (6-14yrs). We will have preliminary rounds from 9am-12pm & 1pm-4pm on Saturday in the fields facility of the Lodge. Adults and troglobite competitors must drop in during these times to attempt to qualify for the finals held on Saturday night. In the adult competition, the top four male contenders along with the top four female contenders in each weight class will advance to the finals. In the troglobite category the top four male and female competitors will advance. The winners in each adult & troglobite category will receive a prize ribbon, sign the squeeze box and best of all have bragging rights until next years competition. Adult & troglobite finalist will be posted in the lobby by 5:00pm. In the kids competition, kids ages 6-14yrs old can take a stab at the squeeze box during the preliminary competitions held on Saturday. We have set different categories for children and will keep track of the records throughout the day. The child that squeezes through the box at the lowest height in each weight category will be determined the winner. The winners of the kid's squeeze box competition will be posted by 5:00pm in the lobby of the lodge. Kid's competition winners in each weight category will win a prize ribbon. The ribbons will be awarded before the adult squeeze box competition. Meets in fields facility. No transportation required.
Saturday 1:00pm Drop in - no registration required. This is an EXTREME cardboard maze that is adventurous for both adults and kids. You will encounter extensive crawling passages and some constrictive spaces during this trip. The passages simulate conditions often encountered by cavers in the area's wild caves. The corrugated cave has undergone some renovations since last year. Bring a light (NOT carbide!) but you can leave your shoes & helmet behind. Dress lightly, it is strenuous and can get stuffy in the cave. Knee pads are a good option if you have them. We allow 10 people maximum in the cave at one time, therefore a short wait may occur. Children 10 years old and under need parental supervision in order to participate. Follow signs from lobby to basement. No transportation required.
Saturday 1:00pm Drop in - no registration required. A Saturday mini-presentation. Be inspired by first time Appalachian Trail (AT) hiker Laura Letton as she shares her personal stories about what she and her five fellow hiking companions learned and experienced on an eight day adventure on the AT in October 2011. Visit the beauty of fall on the Appalachian Trail through pictures. Hear how Laura and the others gained experience in backcountry camping, and built their stamina and strength in Mount Rogers/Grayson Highlands,VA, as well as hiking up Roan Mountain, TN, and Hump Mountain, TN. Enjoy her personal reflections about the challenges and the rewards of the trip, why she decided to make the journey, and the effect it had on her personally. Meets in fields facility. No transportation required.
Saturday 1:00pm The elusive Bigfoot has remained a mystery because he practices Leave No Trace to preserve his environment. Meet Trek and Track, the fun hiking boots that use interactive activities, targeted towards the younger generation (ages 6-10) to introduce you to the principles of Leave No Trace. Each participant will receive a Leave No Trace backpack tag. Meets at Cottage 248 . Transportation required.
Saturday 1:00pm Bat Conservation through Cave Conservation, Restoration and Preservation: a field trip that will take you to several caves on the park with a discussion on bat species' natural and life history, the gating of Laurel Cave, and protection and ongoing conservation and restoration efforts at Saltpeter Cave. This trip will lead us to the small building protecting the Abe's Room sinkhole culvert. Then off to the entrance of Bat Cave to discuss the gating and flood control efforts that are on-going at this critical site where conservation and preservation efforts intersect. Other cave and bat conservation work in Kentucky will be discussed along with current conservation efforts necessitated by the threat of White Nose Syndrome. This trip will be led by Michael Baker, Eastern Rare Bats Program Coordinator, for Bat Conservation International and Brooke Hines, Bat Ecologist for the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. Together they have over 30 yrs of Bat protection experience. Meets at Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Saturday 1:00pm 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."" (Participants please do not wear any clothing or shoes that have been in another cave or mine outside of the Carter Caves area since 2006. This possibly will help prevent the spread of White Nose Syndrome, a disease that is killing bats across the Eastern United States. Because of the seriousness of WNS, all participants are required to walk across a bio-mat containing Lysol I.C. solution at the end of the cave trip.) Meets at Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Saturday 1:30pm Land navigation will lead the participants in the fundamentals of using map and compass. We will take a look at map features and the information that can be gathered from them. We will also look at compass use and finding headings, bearings, as well as the difference between true, magnetic and grid north. We will then plot some points on a map of the park and learn how to navigate cross country. You will be outside during this workshop so dress appropriately for the weather elements. Meets at lodge . Transportation required.
Saturday 2:00pm Drop in - no registration required. Do you like tight places? Come find out just how tight of a space you can mentally and physically squeeze through. Due to the nature of their amusement, cavers have always wondered how tight of a place they can fit through. That was when the squeeze box was invented and later constructed. Here is the way it works. There will be 3 different categories: adult competition (15yrs - 39yrs), troglobite competition (40yrs & up) and the kids competition (6-14yrs). We will have preliminary rounds from 9am-12pm & 1pm-4pm on Saturday in the fields facility of the Lodge. Adults and troglobite competitors must drop in during these times to attempt to qualify for the finals held on Saturday night. In the adult competition, the top four male contenders along with the top four female contenders in each weight class will advance to the finals. In the troglobite category the top four male and female competitors will advance. The winners in each adult & troglobite category will receive a prize ribbon, sign the squeeze box and best of all have bragging rights until next years competition. Adult & troglobite finalist will be posted in the lobby by 5:00pm. In the kids competition, kids ages 6-14yrs old can take a stab at the squeeze box during the preliminary competitions held on Saturday. We have set different categories for children and will keep track of the records throughout the day. The child that squeezes through the box at the lowest height in each weight category will be determined the winner. The winners of the kid's squeeze box competition will be posted by 5:00pm in the lobby of the lodge. Kid's competition winners in each weight category will win a prize ribbon. The ribbons will be awarded before the adult squeeze box competition. Meets in fields facility. No transportation required.
Saturday 2:00pm Drop in - no registration required. This is an EXTREME cardboard maze that is adventurous for both adults and kids. You will encounter extensive crawling passages and some constrictive spaces during this trip. The passages simulate conditions often encountered by cavers in the area's wild caves. The corrugated cave has undergone some rennvations since last year. Bring a light (NOT carbide!) but you can leave your shoes & helmet behind. Dress lightly, it is strenuous and can get stuffy in the cave. Knee pads are a good option if you have them. We allow 10 people maximum in the cave at one time, therefore a short wait may occur. Children 10 years old and under need parental supervision in order to participate. Follow signs from lobby to basement. No transportation required.
Saturday 2:00pm Steve Barbour, executive director of the Sheltowee Trace Association and Scot Ward, Sheltowee Trace "thru-hiker" and author of the Sheltowee Trace Trail Guide will talk about opportunities for outdoor adventure on Kentucky's Long Trail. Whether walking, biking or horseback riding, there is plenty of opportunity for day or overnight experiences on the Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail in the Daniel Boone National Forest. Meets in fields facility. No transportation required.
Saturday 2:30pm 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 commercially lit walking tour with some stooping and bending. Kenny the Real McCoy will be your guide and provide you with a one uniquely delivered cave tour. (Participants please do not wear any clothing or shoes that have been in another cave or mine outside of the Carter Caves area since 2006. This possibly will help prevent the spread of White Nose Syndrome, a disease that is killing bats across the Eastern United States. Because of the seriousness of WNS, all participants are required to walk across a bio-mat containing Lysol I.C. solution at the end of the cave trip.) Meets at Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Saturday 2:30pm Have you ever wanted to cook over a campfire? People have been cooking over open fires for centuries. This trip gives you the opportunity to learn how to season cast iron ware, how to tell the temperature inside a Dutch oven, what types of cookware can be used on an open fire, how to cook over an open fire and receive several recipes to take home with you. Each participant will have the opportunity to prepare a hoecake. No equipment or experience is needed. All materials are supplied. Bring your appetite. This trip is indoors and uses a fireplace inside the Welcome Center meeting room. Meets at Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Saturday 3:00pm Drop in - no registration required. Do you like tight places? Come find out just how tight of a space you can mentally and physically squeeze through. Due to the nature of their amusement, cavers have always wondered how tight of a place they can fit through. That was when the squeeze box was invented and later constructed. Here is the way it works. There will be 3 different categories: adult competition (15yrs - 39yrs), troglobite competition (40yrs & up) and the kids competition (6-14yrs). We will have preliminary rounds from 9am-12pm & 1pm-4pm on Saturday in the fields facility of the Lodge. Adults and troglobite competitors must drop in during these times to attempt to qualify for the finals held on Saturday night. In the adult competition, the top four male contenders along with the top four female contenders in each weight class will advance to the finals. In the troglobite category the top four male and female competitors will advance. The winners in each adult & troglobite category will receive a prize ribbon, sign the squeeze box and best of all have bragging rights until next years competition. Adult & troglobite finalist will be posted in the lobby by 5:00pm. In the kids competition, kids ages 6-14yrs old can take a stab at the squeeze box during the preliminary competitions held on Saturday. We have set different categories for children and will keep track of the records throughout the day. The child that squeezes through the box at the lowest height in each weight category will be determined the winner. The winners of the kid's squeeze box competition will be posted by 5:00pm in the lobby of the lodge. Kid's competition winners in each weight category will win a prize ribbon. The ribbons will be awarded before the adult squeeze box competition. Meets in fields facility. No transportation required.
Saturday 3:00pm Drop in - no registration required. This is an EXTREME cardboard maze that is adventurous for both adults and kids. You will encounter extensive crawling passages and some constrictive spaces during this trip. The passages simulate conditions often encountered by cavers in the area's wild caves. The corrugated cave has undergone some renovations since last year. Bring a light (NOT carbide!) but you can leave your shoes & helmet behind. Dress lightly, it is strenuous and can get stuffy in the cave. Knee pads are a good option if you have them. We allow 10 people maximum in the cave at one time, therefore a short wait may occur. Children 10 years old and under need parental supervision in order to participate. Follow signs from lobby to basement. No transportation required.
Saturday 3:00pm This is a hands on workshop where you will be constructing and using your own prusik climbing system. All participants needs to bring 36 feet of 8 mil cord to build your system. In order to try out your system you should also bring a climbing harness and 3 carabineers. Meets at Cottage 248 . Transportation required.
Saturday 3:00pm Drop in - no registration required. A Saturday mini-presentation. Machu Picchu & the Waynu Picchu (that chunk of rock that always towers above MP) complexes constitutes one of the seven wonders of the world. Nestled high in the Peruvian Andes it was never found by the Spanish Conquistadores and consequently never conquered. Rediscovered in 1911 it still is a very remote and yet magical place. Planes, trains, busses & very badly maintained automobiles driven by insane Peruvian drivers, was required to reach our destination, but was half the fun. Nothing however compares to the very first instant that your eyes fall upon this breathtaking site for the first time. It truly leaves you speechless! Meets in fields facility. No transportation required.
Saturday 3:00pm Join ""Almost Gone"" and ""Barely There"" for a short hike for beginners. This hiker duo will walk you through the basics of hiking and inspire new comers to open their door to more hiking adventures. Along the way you will get to see one of the parks Natural Bridges and some scenic views of the Smoky Valley Lake. Total hiking distance is approximately 1.25 miles. Meets at the lodge. No transportation required.
Saturday 4:00pm Drop in - no registration required. This is an EXTREME cardboard maze that is adventurous for both adults and kids. You will encounter extensive crawling passages and some constrictive spaces during this trip. The passages simulate conditions often encountered by cavers in the area's wild caves. The corrugated cave has undergone some renovations since last year. Bring a light (NOT carbide!) but you can leave your shoes & helmet behind. Dress lightly, it is strenuous and can get stuffy in the cave. Knee pads are a good option if you have them. We allow 10 people maximum in the cave at one time, therefore a short wait may occur. Children 10 years old and under need parental supervision in order to participate. Follow signs from lobby to basement. No transportation required.
Saturday 4:30pm 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."" (Participants please do not wear any clothing or shoes that have been in another cave or mine outside of the Carter Caves area since 2006. This possibly will help prevent the spread of White Nose Syndrome, a disease that is killing bats across the Eastern United States. Because of the seriousness of WNS, all participants are required to walk across a bio-mat containing Lysol I.C. solution at the end of the cave trip.) Meets at Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Saturday 4:30pm Drop in - no registration required. A Saturday mini-presentation.Many of the caves and rock shelters at Carter Caves and in Carter Co. were visited and occupied for thousands of years by Aboriginal visitors. We will take a time trip to visit these sites and see the numerous artifacts that were left behind. Archaeological studies in association with the KY Heritage Council have provided information on who was here, when they were here, what foods they had available, where they obtained their raw material for stone tools and which caves or shelters they most frequently used. In addition, you will see some evidence from Bat Cave that has not previously been documented. Meets at fields facility. No transportation required.
Sunday 8:30am 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.(Participants please do not wear any clothing or shoes that have been in another cave or mine outside of the Carter Caves area since 2006. This possibly will help prevent the spread of White Nose Syndrome, a disease that is killing bats across the Eastern United States. Because of the seriousness of WNS, all participants are required to walk across a bio-mat containing Lysol I.C. solution at the end of the cave trip.) Meets at lodge . Transportation required.
Sunday 9:00am Drop in - no registration required. This is an EXTREME cardboard maze that is adventurous for both adults and kids. You will encounter extensive crawling passages and some constrictive spaces during this trip. The passages simulate conditions often encountered by cavers in the area's wild caves. The corrugated cave has undergone some renovations since last year. Bring a light (NOT carbide!) but you can leave your shoes & helmet behind. Dress lightly, it is strenuous and can get stuffy in the cave. Knee pads are a good option if you have them. We allow 10 people maximum in the cave at one time, therefore a short wait may occur. Children 10 years old and under need parental supervision in order to participate. Follow signs from lobby to basement. No transportation required.
Sunday 9:00am Do you like the outdoors and modern technology? How about gadgets and gizmos? We have the perfect activity to combine both. A great family activity, geocaching uses the internet, GPS units, and a sense of adventure in the outdoors to send you on a scavenger hunt like no other. You can bring your own GPS but don't worry; we'll have extras if you don't have one. We'll provide the instruments and instruction on how to begin participating in this world wide phenomenon! Following a instructional presentation, you will put your new found skills to the test by venturing outdoors to find some specially placed caches. Meets at Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Sunday 9:00am Basic information on three popular types of bicycling: road, cyclocross and mountain biking. There will also be information on cycling opportunities in the area along with a presentation on basic bicycle maintenance and repair. Presented by members of Ashland Cycling Enthusiasts. Meets in fields facility. No transportation required.
Sunday 9:30am 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. Keep your eyes peeled and you may see some of the resident big brown bats hibernating in X-Cave. (Participants please do not wear any clothing or shoes that have been in another cave or mine outside of the Carter Caves area since 2006. This possibly will help prevent the spread of White Nose Syndrome, a disease that is killing bats across the Eastern United States. Because of the seriousness of WNS, all participants are required to walk across a bio-mat containing Lysol I.C. solution at the end of the cave trip.) Meets at Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Sunday 9:30am A fire building workshop that will look at the fundamental aspects of building a fire along with several different methods, including matches, prism, flint and steel, and bow drill. All participants will build a small fire with matches, and practice the other methods. You will be outside during this workshop so dress appropriately for the weather elements. Meets at lodge . Transportation required.
Sunday 9:30am This trip takes you into and through multiple ancient dwelling sites used by the first cavers. We will pass though the Wood Hen Hollow Archaeological complex where Mississippian Sandstone has formed multiple, connected ancient habitation sites that have indicated occupation from at least 1000 BC to 1400 AD. You will view the Smokey Creek valley as seen by the first cavers many thousands of years ago. Then we will proceed to the Smoky Bridge area to view the bridge, small caves, and an archaeological area above the Smoky Bridge. On our return to the lodge you will see evidence of the ancient sea that covered this area in the Mississippian Era. Meets at lodge . No transportation required.
Sunday 10:00am Drop in - no registration required. This is an EXTREME cardboard maze that is adventurous for both adults and kids. You will encounter extensive crawling passages and some constrictive spaces during this trip. The passages simulate conditions often encountered by cavers in the area's wild caves. The corrugated cave has undergone some renovations since last year. Bring a light (NOT carbide!) but you can leave your shoes & helmet behind. Dress lightly, it is strenuous and can get stuffy in the cave. Knee pads are a good option if you have them. We allow 10 people maximum in the cave at one time, therefore a short wait may occur. Children 10 years old and under need parental supervision in order to participate. Follow signs from lobby to basement. No transportation required.
Sunday 10:00am Have you ever wanted to cook over a campfire? People have been cooking over open fires for centuries. This trip gives you the opportunity to learn how to season cast iron ware, how to tell the temperature inside a Dutch oven, what types of cookware can be used on an open fire, how to cook over an open fire and receive several recipes to take home with you. Each participant will have the opportunity to prepare a hoecake. No equipment or experience is needed. All materials are supplied. Bring your appetite. This trip is indoors and uses a fireplace inside the Welcome Center meeting room. Meets at Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Sunday 10:30am 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 commercially lit walking tour with some stooping and bending. Kenny the Real McCoy will be your guide and provide you with one uniquely delivered cave tour. (Participants please do not wear any clothing or shoes that have been in another cave or mine outside of the Carter Caves area since 2006. This possibly will help prevent the spread of White Nose Syndrome, a disease that is killing bats across the Eastern United States. Because of the seriousness of WNS, all participants are required to walk across a bio-mat containing Lysol I.C. solution at the end of the cave trip.) Meets at Welcome Center. Transportation required.
Sunday 11:00am Drop in - no registration required. This is an EXTREME cardboard maze that is adventurous for both adults and kids. You will encounter extensive crawling passages and some constrictive spaces during this trip. The passages simulate conditions often encountered by cavers in the area's wild caves. The corrugated cave has undergone some renovations since last year. Bring a light (NOT carbide!) but you can leave your shoes & helmet behind. Dress lightly, it is strenuous and can get stuffy in the cave. Knee pads are a good option if you have them. We allow 10 people maximum in the cave at one time, therefore a short wait may occur. Children 10 years old and under need parental supervision in order to participate. Follow signs from lobby to basement. No transportation required.
Sunday 1:00pm 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."" (Participants please do not wear any clothing or shoes that have been in another cave or mine outside of the Carter Caves area since 2006. This possibly will help prevent the spread of White Nose Syndrome, a disease that is killing bats across the Eastern United States. Because of the seriousness of WNS, all participants are required to walk across a bio-mat containing Lysol I.C. solution at the end of the cave trip.) Meets at Welcome Center. Transportation required.
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Carter Caves State Park 2011 Winner of Outstanding Park Of The Year. |
| Winter Adventure Weekend 2011 Winner Of The Outstanding Special Event Of The Year. |
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