John Guilday Caves Nature Preserve

The John Guilday Caves Nature Preserve property, in Pendleton County, West Virginia, contains several caves, including three well known, significant caves: Trout, New Trout, and Hamilton. The caves have been visited by thousands of people over the course of at least 200 years, and continue to be popular with recreational cavers, particularly youth groups. The property has historical value as an 18th century saltpetre site, and all three of the main caves are important paleontological sites. In addition, the property is biologically significant as a hibernaculum for a small colony of Indiana Myotis Bats, and Summer colonies of Virginia Long Eared Bats, both of which are endangered species.

The National Speleological Society (NSS) purchased the 40-acre property in 1983 to protect the caves and their resources, and to ensure access to the caves by properly equipped and responsible cavers who abide by the rules set forth in the management plan.

The property has been designated the John Guilday Caves Nature Preserve in honor of the late John E. Guilday, who was one of the foremost paleontologists in the country working with cave-deposited material and a long-time NSS member. While research curator at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, he made the initial paleontological studies in Trout Cave.

Permission to visit the property is not required. Please stay on the designated trail, sign in and out in the book located at the kiosk and include number in party, the cave you are visiting and the expected destination in said cave. Please report any concerns or problems to Earl Suitor (the Preserve Manager) at 703-431-2661.

There are currently projects underway to clean any and all graffiti (non-historic) from the caves and restore them to the most pristine condition possible, so we ask that you leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but pictures, disturb no living creatures and have a safe, educational and fun visit.