EEAI 2021 Field Trips – Saturday, November 13th

Underground Cave Adventure - $25

Explore the world of caves as we crawl, scramble, wade, learn about cave biology, and be one with the mud!  You are guaranteed to get wet and you’ll want to dress warm as this adventure is at least three hours long. We recommend two layers of old clothes (arms and legs must be covered), boots or other old sturdy shoes, kneepads (highly recommended), gloves, and a plastic bag for your muddy clothes afterward. Helmet and headlamp provided. 

You are encouraged to bring the following:

• Clothes you are comfortable getting wet, muddy, and potentially ripped
  
• Headlamp if you want your own
• Kneepads Any set will do such as a volleyball type or the type that flooring guys use
• A second set of clothes in a plastic bag.
  
• At least 1 water bottle and a snack.
  

15 people max. 30 minute drive. Leave Inn at 12:30pm.

Participants will need to sign a waiver (we will have paper copies available at the conference).

 

Raptors at Patoka Lake - $0  

(ADA Accessible)            

Learn about Patoka Lake’s raptors in an educational program and then embark on a hike to explore some of the park’s features such as rock shelters used by American Indian hunting parties, freshwater jellyfish, river otters, and osprey.  The park is great for birdwatching.  There are ADA accessible trails but they are a bit hilly.  Hiking route will be determined based on group’s abilities and desires.

Participants will carpool to the location. 1 hr drive. Program scheduled for 2pm. Leave Inn at 1pm.

 

Spring Mill Nature Preserves Hike - $0                                    

Hike 2.5 miles on Spring Mill’s trail 3, traveling through three nature preserves along the way.  This trail has been called a “museum of karst topography” due to its remarkable geological features.  Park Naturalist Sheree will tell you everything there is to know about Spring Mill and its various highlights during this 1.5 hr hike that gains 134 feet in elevation. Moderate hike. 

Meet the naturalist at the front porch at the Inn. Hike scheduled for 1pm-2:30pm.

 

Cave River Valley Hike - $0                     

Cave River Valley, just down the road from Spring Mill, offers a beautiful and rugged area where you can enjoy a waterfall, remnants of a mill, and caves.  This 3.3 mile loop trail won’t get you into a cave but you will learn all about the natural and cultural history of the location from our Spring Mill area expert, Sheree.  This hike takes about 1.5 hours and has an elevation gain of 400 feet. Very Rugged Hike. Waterproof boots recommended as we will be crossing a creek.  

Participants will carpool to the location. 15 min drive. Meet the naturalist at the front porch at the Inn. Hike scheduled to leave Spring Mill at 3pm and return 5:30pm.

Wine Tasting at French Lick Winery - $10 paid at winery

Join us for wine tasting at French Lick Winery where you can try any of their 26 wines. The tasting bar is a prominent feature in the building. Trained wine servers lead our guests through the expansive list of wines, ranging from dry to sweet, fortified and sparkling. Additional wine purchases beyond tasting fees are not included.

Participants will carpool to the location. 36 min drive. Scheduled to leave at 3:00pm.