>>2151509I've done recreational wild caving since around 2007. Definitely a fun hobby, very difficult to get into without joining a grotto. I personally never did and just organized caving trips with a group of friends I already knew. You'll quickly find out that most people aren't cut out for squeezing through rocks underground. If you don't join a grotto, it's a lot of tracking down geological surveys and then ridge walking the areas until you find the right hole in the ground which can take several trips.
Safety is obviously very important, seriously, don't take it lightly. Most caving trips are a blast with zero incidents, but in a hobby where incidents can leave you trapped underground, it's best to be prepared. If you're going to try it out make sure you:
1.) Have a call out (someone who knows where the cave is, is not going on the trip, and has a set time to call S&R)
2.) Bring a backup light source (I bring three light sources minimum and extra batteries)
3.) Wear a helmet (rocks are really hard)
