Tytoona Cave Nature Preserve Project 2001
Tytoona Cave Nature Preserve was improved with new steps and railing, so that cavers can go down the sink hole in a more convenient and safe way. Old decayed rail-road ties were removed that once served as steps during the commercial operation of the cave back in the 1940's. The last improvement to the steps were made in 1991 as an Eagle Scout project, however only about 30 feet was improved at that time. The new completed project started on March 17, 2001 and was completed April 9, 2001. Sixteen work trips and 39 worked hours was needed to complete the project. The project was built by members of the Tytoona Cave Nature Preserve Committee and members of the Huntingdon Co. Cave Hunters. 

Click on the small images below to see enlarged photos
(Use your browser's "Back" button to return to this page)
This is what the original steps looked like in 1981. They were built in the 1940's when Tytoona was a commercial show cave for a short time. The new steps-railing project begins at the upper level of the sink hole. Posts and railing are being installed.
This photo shows the completion of the upper level project. Next, the overlook project begins. Photo shows posts installed and dirt bank excavated at the overlook.
Upper level and overlook project completed. This is what the lower level looked like before building the new steps and railing. (note the old rail road ties) Proper alignment and post holes are dug to start the last phase of the Tytoona project.
Lower level posts are installed. Lower level railing is completed. Lower level building of steps process.
   
Finally, the lower level is completed.    View of entire finished project.