Huntsville Grotto

A Member of the NSS

Since 1955

Who We Are

The Huntsville Grotto is an "Internal Organization" of the National Speleological Society, an organization dedicated to the study, protection, and exploration of caves. We are a group of people with a wide variety of backgrounds and interests, but who all agree on one thing: we love caves and caving! The grotto's official mission is to provide interest in and to advance in any way the study and science of speleology, to encourage safe cave exploring techniques, to help conserve cave fauna and natural formations, and to promote fellowship among those interested in caves and caving. 

Read More!

Are you new? Welcome, we are glad you are here!

Here are some FAQs so that you can learn more

  • Every first Wednesday of the month, we hold our grotto meeting usually at the NSS Conference Center at 6001 Pulaski Pike NW, Huntsville 35810. Sometimes we meet outside at the pavillion, and sometimes we meet in a cave. Check out our events page to confirm location for the current month!

  • The Members meetings start at 7:00 where we discuss:

    • Upcoming and past cave trips/events

    • Organizations dedicated to preserving caves, cave conservation, and cave rescue

    • Miscellaneous opportunities to become more involved in the community

    This is followed by a break with trip signups and program related to caving at 8PM. The HG Board meets at 6:00 preceeding the grotto meeting. All HG Members are also welcome to attend this.

    • Beginner Horizontal trips are always open to the public.

    • Intermediate Horizontal trips are sometimes members-only.

    • You will need to demonstrate sufficient vertical capabilities and techniques before joining a vertical trip.

    • Most other events are open to the public!

  • Friday Practice! (Grey events on the calendar)

    For those that are new to Vertical Practice it is a multi-faceted event; people new to vertical caving can become familiar with equipment, techniques, meet the people, and try out various systems; beginners may develop their skill on the self-pace training course, experienced folks can stay current, try new techniques and equipment, and socialize.  It is neither necessary nor advisable for you to have your own gear until you know what you really want.  There are lots of people willing to let you try their gear.  The grotto hosts Friday Practice once or twice each month.