I (Anna Pearce) will be leading a NS vertical trip for a Florida friend on Sunday, May 10th, and I have three additional spots available. Come join us!
We will meet at the Texaco at 34846 US-72, Fackler, AL 35746 at 10 AM EASTERN and carpool/caravan to the cave.
SCCi Description of Cave:
Long known and loved by caver explorers, NS is considered by many to be the classic pit. It is probably the most photographed pit in TAG (Tennessee, Alabama, Georgia) due to the beautiful fern covered ledges (including some rare and endangered ferns), waterfalls, and other features. The pit is about 40 feet in diameter at the top and bells out to 100 feet in diameter at the bottom. It has been featured in countless publications.
Neversink is a beautiful 162 foot open air pit in Jackson County Alabama. The bottom can only be reached using vertical caving skills, knowledge, and equipment to safely descend into its depths by rappelling a rope and ascending that same rope with specialty equipment to exit the cave. The bottom of Neversink is approximately 162 feet from the edge.
If you do not possess the vertical caving skills or ability needed to visit the bottom, Neversink is still an impressive and unique place to visit. The long hike up the mountain is strenuous and one should be prepared with an adequate quantity of drinking water and some snacks.
Gear to Bring:
- Vertical Kit: harness, ascenders, descender (e.g., rack or bobbin), and locking carabiners.
- Helmet: Must have a chin strap.
- Lights: Three independent sources (e.g., helmet-mounted headlamp + 2 backups) plus batteries
- Clothing: Non-cotton, synthetic, or wool layers.
- Boots: Sturdy, good traction, ankle support (rubber boots are common).
- Protection: Knee and elbow pads.
- Gloves: Gardening or rubber-dipped gloves.
- Pack: Small, durable pack (no zippers, drawstring preferred).
- Food/Water: High-calorie snacks and water.
- Trash Bag: Excellent for preventing hypothermia or keeping dry and also good to put dirty clothes in after the trip