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⚠️ Important Notice

All visitors to Defiance Cave Preserve must complete and submit an appropriate liability waiver before their visit. This protects both visitors and property owners and ensures everyone understands the inherent risks of caving and climbing activities.

NO WAIVER = NO ACCESS

Understanding Waivers

Caving and climbing are inherently dangerous activities that carry significant risks, including serious injury or death. By signing a waiver, you acknowledge these risks and agree to take personal responsibility for your safety while on the preserve.

Waivers are a legal requirement for accessing the preserve and help protect both visitors and property owners. Please read all waiver documents carefully before signing.

Waiver Types

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Caving Waiver

Required for Cave Access

Anyone visiting Cave of the Clouds, Drapery Den, or other caves on the preserve must complete a caving waiver.

This waiver covers all activities related to cave exploration, including hiking to and from the cave entrance, entering and exiting the cave, and all movement within the cave system.

Required for: All cave visitors, regardless of experience level

πŸ“„ Download Caving Waiver

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Climbing Waiver

Required for Puoux Access

Visitors to the Puoux rock climbing area must complete a separate climbing waiver before accessing the climbing routes.

This waiver covers all climbing-related activities, including approach hikes, bouldering, top-rope climbing, lead climbing, and belaying.

Required for: All climbers and belayers at Puoux

πŸ“„ Download Climbing Waiver

How to Submit Your Waiver

1

Download the Waiver

Click the appropriate download button above to get the caving waiver, climbing waiver, or both if you plan to do multiple activities.
2

Complete All Required Fields

Fill out the waiver completely and accurately. Include all requested information such as your name, contact details, emergency contact information, and any relevant medical conditions.
3

Sign and Date

Sign and date the document. For minors, a parent or legal guardian must sign. Make sure the signature is clear and legible.
4

Scan the Document

Scan your completed and signed waiver. Most smartphones have built-in scanning apps, or you can use a traditional scanner. Ensure the scan is clear and readable.
5

Email to Preserve Owners

Email your scanned waiver as an attachment to the preserve owners along with your access request. Include your preferred trip date and the number of people in your group.

Access Request Information

When requesting access to the preserve, include the following information along with your completed waiver(s):

πŸ“… Visit Details

  • Your preferred trip date
  • Alternative dates if available
  • Estimated arrival time
  • Expected duration of visit

πŸ‘₯ Group Information

  • Number of people in your group
  • Names of all participants
  • Experience levels
  • Any special considerations

🎯 Activities Planned

  • Caving, climbing, or both
  • Specific caves to visit
  • Climbing routes of interest
  • Photography or research

πŸ“ž Contact Information

  • Your phone number
  • Email address
  • Emergency contact
  • Preferred contact method

Important Notes

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Submit in Advance

Waivers must be submitted before your visitβ€”no exceptions. Plan ahead to ensure your paperwork is complete before your intended visit date. Last-minute submissions may not be approved in time.

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Individual Waivers

Each visitor must complete their own waiver. Group submissions are acceptable, but every person must have their own signed document.

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Minors Require Guardian Signature

For groups including minors (under 18), parent or legal guardian signatures are required on each minor’s waiver. The guardian does not need to be present during the visit, but their signature is mandatory.

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Keep a Copy

Keep a copy of your submitted waiver for your records. This can be helpful for future visits or if any questions arise about your access approval.

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Multiple Activities

If you plan to both cave and climb during your visit, you must complete and submit both waivers. Indicate both activities in your access request.

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Confirmation

Once your waiver is submitted and access is approved, you’ll receive confirmation along with any additional information about parking, trail conditions, and current preserve guidelines.

Ready to Plan Your Visit?

Once your waiver is submitted and access is approved, you’ll receive information about parking locations, trail directions, cave gate key pickup (for caving trips), current preserve guidelines, and any special considerations for your visit.

Contact Ken Headrick - Access Coordinator