Climbing… Underground?
Hey guys!
So this week I thought I might do something a little different and tell you about an obscure but amazing scene for climbing… which happens to be underground.
If you have ever heard of sport caving or spelunking, you are already more familiar with the idea of underground climbing than most. But what if I told you that there exists technical, vertical caving which requires a similar skillset to climbing? Cool, right?
Vertical caving is a particular discipline of advanced spelunkers who seek greater thrill in less accessible caves – that is, unless you have the proper know-how and equipment. Despite the stereotypical idea that cave passages are all muddy, cramped, and dark, when you desire to explore the unexplored, you will find much more than claustrophobia and mutant insects.
Vertical caves are not open to the public and have been known to house a few deaths from careless hikers passing by. The vertical part of a cave can be an entrance, whether it measures an impressive 100 ft wide and 300 ft deep or just enough to fit your body and gear through. You may have to climb, go through squeezes, or simply enjoy a refreshing dunk in the waterfall as you descend. I have been lucky enough to begin vert training in some caves nearby State College in a less-inviting 20′ drop through an underground waterfall squeeze in 30-degree weather… brrr.
While the ropes, ascending equipment, and the addition of a chest harness complicate vertical caving, much of the process remains similar to that of climbing. There are even canyon-like passages where one might have to ascend the walls without rope or harness in much more of a 3D sense of climbing.
For some, the addition of climbing to spelunking makes it all the more worth it. For others, sport caving may suffice without the added danger or need for training.
Without a doubt, the ability to climb a rock wall is not limited to the insides of a gym or the expanse of river cliffs and mountain crags. There is always more adventure to be found if you desire to find it; you simply must know where to look.
If any of you are interested in non-vertical caving, I am happy to connect you with the people I go on trips with, or perhaps take you on one of the personal trips that I will be leading 😛
Let me know if you have any questions below!
This actually sounds so cool! Are your trips through The Penn State Caving Club or another organization? I know I randomly signed up for the PSU caving club email list at the beginning of the year but have never actually tried to go to any meetings or trips. I love the idea of repelling into a huge cave. We did some slot canyon repelling on my vacation in Zion in Utah, but I’ve never been in a big open cave like you described. I might actually be interested in finding out more, sounds like a really cool opportunity!
I’m actually heavily involved with the NGCC Caving Club at Penn State where we learn and teach about caves and equipment (you should come to meetings every other Wed @ 7 pm!), but all trips are not affiliated with the University for safety precautions. My number is (717) 810-8253 if you want me to add you to the GroupMe where trip signups are posted just reach out!
Vertical caving looks super fun! I’m glad there’s places nearby State College for you to experience this. It seems like “danger” is a big attraction to this sport, but I’m sure the risks are worth the reward (unless you die). If you have any pictures from your adventures, I’d love to see them!
Wow vertical climbing seems like it could be a bit dangerous without proper training. I have actually been to many caves, especially when I visited Hawaii, and I wonder if any of them offered vertical climbing. Your blogs always make me want to try climbing, though I think my fear of heights might hold me back!!