Getting into caving usually takes time, persistence, and training. Cavers are secretive for a reason. Cave environments are dangerous and delicate. Those who don't understand or are unprepared, even with good intentions, can destroy a cave, get hurt, or worse, die. Caving can be so fun when done right, and those who prove that they can be respectful, always put safety first, and are willing to put in the work are those who get invited in and shown unique and amazing caves. Here are the steps to get into caving. 

1.  Join a Grotto: The National Speleological Society (NSS) has chapters or grottos all over. These are groups of dedicated cavers who usually plan caving trips regularly. Oftentimes, there is a low yearly fee for joining, but not always. These fees tend to cover gear for the grotto, like ropes, bolts, spare vertical kits, etc. Many grottos hold regular meetings for everyone to get together and talk about caving. This is the best chance to get introduced to local cavers and get on some beginner trips. You can find local grottos by going to the NSS website (caves.org) and looking up your state. If a local grotto does not exist in your area, the next best option is to go on social media pages for caving, such as Reddit or Facebook, or ask local rock climbers and canyoneers, as many cavers come from these sports. 

2. Research: Put in some online research, if you haven't already, into caving. Understand what caving truly is, what to expect underground, what gear is needed, and ask for help/recommendations. Cavers are happy to show someone the ropes, but it's always better to go into it with some base knowledge. Get involved in the cave community by going to meetings and trainings. Don't be put off if people don't immediately reach out. Many people show up once or twice and never come back. Show you are serious and willing to learn. Caving is a small community compared to most sports, which means they are usually a tight-knit group. 

3.  Get Involved: Don't expect to be invited on cave trips or given access to locations. It doesn't work like that. Not being given locations can feel frustrating when you just want to get out and cave a bunch, but it comes from a place of protecting the caves and not being exclusionary. However, you will find some cavers have the mindset that caves should never be shared ever, and that only they should have the privilege of visiting what they've seen. This is an old way of thinking that has been slowly going away as new generations of cavers understand that everyone who puts in the work can enjoy all caves. Some exceptions do apply, but they are few and far between. To eventually get access to cave locations, persistence is key, especially if you don't know anyone in the community. You must reach out and ask to go on trips and get to know people. Most cavers are really nice but guarded when it comes to locations or even projects they are working on. In addition to going on trips, learning the responsibilities of caving, and understanding your local cave community, you will be able to be invited on more special trips and even start participating in projects if you desire. Demanding locations, being disrespectful in a cave, or reckless behavior are a good way to never get a call back. 

4. Advance: Many cavers start out going on recreational trips to see and explore a cave with no goal other than to have fun. This is a great way to start. Those who remain dedicated often transition to project caving because it can be extremely rewarding. Find what you like about caving, or what aspect of caving you want to get into, and focus on that. Some very significant caves can only be visited for project caving, and developing a project caving skill is the way to get onto those trips. 

5. Pass On Your Skills: If you love caving and become deeply involved, one of the best ways to sharpen your skills is to teach others. Pass on what you learned so the next generation of cavers can get involved!