Exploration of Mammoth Cave

A course within the Summer 2012 Karst Field Studies Program.

Dr. Stanley D. Sides

This course is an intensive study of the discovery, exploration, and development of the caves and karst features of the Mammoth Cave region that resulted in the integration of the caves into the world's longest cave system. The forces that stimulated exploration, such as saltpeter mining, regional commercialization of show caves, national park development, and scientific research are examined. Illustrated lectures, handouts, and maps are used to promote understanding of the caves prior to daily field trips. This year the course will emphasize recent research on the history of the many regional show caves that competed with Mammoth Cave after the end of the Civil War. Many underground trips follow tourist trails closed long ago to the public, while other trips require strenuous walking and crawling in undeveloped passages on trips lasting 6 to 8 hours. Additionally, the course usually repeats the connection routes made by previous explorers between one entrance and another in the Mammoth Cave system. Participants must be in good physical condition to partake in these activities.

Course Dates: June 4-10, 2012. The course will officially end on Saturday, June 9, but an optional cave trip may be offered on Sunday, June 10.

Requirements: Good physical condition
Registration Options: Undergraduate and Workshop credit

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