OLIVE HILL — Anyone with a strong desire to learn more about exploring a cave system, even if they lack experience, may be interested in signing up to participate in the 28th annual Crawlathon at Carter Caves State Resort Park Jan. 23 through 25.

“Right now it looks like we have 30 trips or so with spots available and the majority of those spots would be best for newcomers or inexperienced cavers,” said Coy Ainsley, park naturalist at Carter Caves State Resort Park. “And, of course there are a few spots left for level three and level four trips for people with more experience.”

The annual event, which provides otherwise unparalleled access to cave areas normally off-limits to the public, features cave trips and instructional programs conducted by experienced guides, he said.

“It’s a neat thing to be able to explore the underground world,” Ainsley said, noting how often people drive over or past natural cave systems “but never get to go inside.”

The annual Crawlathon event is an ideal introduction to the world of cave exploration, as well as a point of fascination for those who’ve been exploring for years. Those who are new to the activity, he said, will find plenty of expert help.

“We average between 100 and 120 volunteers and they are some of the best cavers in the world,” the park naturalist said.

“It is a much anticipated event among the hardy individualists who attend it loyally. It is somewhat unique among ‘caving’ events in that it provides beneficial activities for anyone interested in caves and caving without regard to their level of expertise,” Ainsley said. “Some who attend have never ‘caved’ before, while others may be among the best known cavers in the country. Anyone interested in caves or caving will find something they can do.”

Even though Crawlathon trips vary in degrees of difficulty, each journey will be “strenuous,” he said.

“Anyone recovering from surgery, anyone with chronic back pain, anyone with knee problems, anyone with claustrophobia or other psychological discomforts associated with entering caves, should carefully consider if the Crawlathon is their type of amusement,” Ainsley said.

Park staff are encouraging guests to check in early Jan. 22 and stay over Jan. 25 by offering a special rate of $50 for a lodge room and a cottage rate of $100. Regular rates apply during the event. The $50 coupon for lodge rooms can be downloaded from www.parks.ky.gov or www.crawlathon.com or by calling the park for the special Thursday or Sunday $100 cottage rate.

A non-refundable Crawlathon registration fee of $35 per adult (13 years and older) and $20 per child (6 to 12 years), will be required of all participants. Included in the registration fee is access to all evening programs, workshops, cave tours, transportation to selected caves, and a uniquely designed long sleeved T-shirt for the 2009 event. Registration can be completed online or by mail.

Registration is limited to two trips Jan. 24 and one trip Jan. 25. Beware of conflicting trip times that would cause missing a second trip. A completed waiver of liability form is required and should be brought to Crawlathon.

For more information, please visit www.crawl

athon.com or contact Chris Perry at (606) 286-4411 or (800) 325-0059.