Back in the spring of 2025, I received some not particularly good news regarding a recent blood test – a very obscure test indicated that I likely had Multiple Myeloma, a nasty blood cancer. I was then scheduled for an appointment with a specialist for that cancer….in August. Yeah. I was on the wait list for getting an earlier appointment, so that totally screwed my summer – I had to stay within a day’s drive from home. I started looking for place to visit close to home, and discovered that there were quite a few public caverns along the Sierra Foothills, most of which were just a day trip. Bingo! I used to do real spelunking, and this sounded like something fun for photography and blogging. I managed to visit every one of the public caverns this past year, and branched out to visit one in Colorado as well. It was a fun obsession, but I have to say that once you have seen one or two, you’ve pretty much seen them all in terms of features. I’d still like to visit a few of the much larger ones in other states though. More road trips….woo hoo.
Meet My Avatar – Max
The author reflects on significant anniversaries related to their wife’s Glioblastoma diagnosis and the evolution of their blog, Traveling Widower. Initially a grief log, it transformed into a platform for travel stories and various personal reflections. The interaction with AI, particularly a character named Max, adds a humorous twist to their writing, though it raises…
A Trip To Nowhere, And A Really Big Rock
The author reflects on a recent adventure involving visits to Mitchell Caverns and Moro Rock in California. Despite a physically demanding itinerary with extensive driving, the experiences were rewarding. The interesting characteristics of the cavern, along with stunning views from Moro Rock, made the journey worthwhile, though exhaustion was a significant factor.
The Last Cave: Mercer Caverns
The author visits Mercer Caverns, reflecting on its history as a tourist attraction discovered by gold miner Walter Mercer. Despite restrictions on video equipment, the tour provides a glimpse of various cave features, highlighted by unique aragonite crystals. Afterward, the author indulges in ice cream, concluding their cavern exploration for now.
Caving Part IV – Spiraling down
The Moaning Cavern, notable for its unique 170-step spiral staircase from a WWII battleship, provides an impressive tour experience in Northern California. Participants can choose between a basic Spiral Tour or a more adventurous spelunking option. The large cavern offers stunning views and serves as a great stop before visiting local wineries.
Caving, Part III: Many steps and a light show
The Lake Shasta Cavern tour offers a unique experience, requiring a boat ride for access and features a significant climb through narrow passages and steep stairs. The tour includes a light show and is designed for larger groups, with engaging guides and family-friendly amenities. Overall, it provides a memorable adventure despite being touristy.
Civilized Spelunking – Caving Part 2
The Black Chasm Cave, located near Volcano in Amador County, is a National Natural Landmark characterized by its vertical structure and well-maintained pathways. Unlike California Cavern, it offers a more structured tour experience, featuring unique cave formations like Helectites. The visitor center includes quirky displays, and the cave’s exploration provides memorable photo opportunities, albeit with…