This course is an intensive study of the exploration of Mammoth Cave, with a special emphasis given to the explorers, their discoveries, their motivations, and the incorporation of caves and karst features into the world’s longest cave system. The course topics will focus on the exploration of the world’s longest cave during different time periods and will be covered in chronological order (for the most part). Illustrated lectures, maps, photographs, and first-hand accounts of discovery will be used to promote understanding of the caves prior to daily field trips. Many underground trips will follow tourist trails closed long ago to the public, while other trips will require more strenuous walking and crawling in undeveloped passages on trips lasting 6-8 hours. Participants must be in good physical condition. Content will be covered in both a classroom setting and in the field. Classes will begin and conclude daily at the Cave Research Foundation’s Hamilton Valley Research Station.