Caves in Williamstown, MA

[massholecaver]

There is an area with several small limestone caves in Williamstown, MA within Trustees of Reservation lands which are very clearly marked on their trail map. Upon discovering them, I realized there are about 3-4 small streams which disappear into these caves, some of which has openings big enough to squeeze through. I am wondering if anyone has explored these (not-so-secret) caves in any depth or heard if they are passable beneath the surface? I know the geology of the area suggests they may open up into something bigger, though I don't want to make the drive with some other cavers if they are going to end 4 feet from their entrance. Anybody have any wisdom on this? Thanks!

[Chuck Porter]

These are known as the McMasters caves, and are low, muddy disconnected parts of a former system. John Dunham described them in the March 2008 Northeastern Caver. See http://www.caves.org/region/nro/necaver.html for info on obtaining a back issue. There's also a bit of info at 'Where in Willismstown #66' which you might find online.

Chuck

[massholecaver]

Thanks Chuck! I'll check out the issue you mentioned.

Will

[JSDunham]

There are about 350ft of passages which are sometimes connected, sometimes not depending on the previous winter (mud moves around when the caves flood every year). They are worth visiting, but expect to be very wet and muddy when you come out.