The Florida Speleological Society (FSS) volunteers to take groups underground. We would actually prefer to get a call, coordinate permissions with landowners, find good guides, and  write-up, fill out, and file all paperwork for a group than the group simply going by themselves. This ensures everyone is safe, the landowner knows about the trip, and all bases are covered.

The plan was originally going to be leading a group of Boy Scouts through Lundy’s Cave on December 10th. However, the scouts double booked and cancelled about a month and a half prior to the trip. Since we already had permissions set up–we thought we would just go and have some fun. Folks from the River City Grotto (RCG) in Jacksonville Florida and the FSS in Gainesville came out to spend the day. We explored seldom traveled area’s and rigged the pit. At the end of the day we were saying our good byes and a large tree fell over right in front of our group. It was an exciting finish to an absolutely beautiful day.

Photos and Story by Phil Walker

The gang exits Tucks. After a little food, drink, and rest everyone heads back underground.

Joey, Tony, Ben, and Benjamin heading into Lundy’s.

Benjamin finds the route.

Not to be outdone, Joey follows Benjamin.

Working smarter, rather than harder–Tony takes the stars.

A stick bug, or as Tony called it…a Anisomorpha buprestoides.

Benjamin strolls the tunnel.

Home to the right, so Mike heads to the left.

How many caves can you egress by simply walking up the stairs.

Steve exits with the rest of the nuts, having a great time.