Caving isn’t for everyone. For some, the thought of squeezing through tight, dark tunnels sounds like a claustrophobic nightmare. For others, the idea of exploring sights that very few have seen before is thrilling.
Two women recently went viral after sharing a scary moment inside Peppersauce Cave, a well-known spot in Oracle, Arizona, when they realized they had taken a wrong turn underground. The internet proceeded to panic.
What Went Wrong Inside The Cave?
TikTok user Brig (@briggg_02) posted the clip that went viral with 3 million views, showing her and her friend navigating through the narrow limestone tunnels of Peppersauce Cave.
“When the hike becomes either we lock in or we’re on the news,” the video’s on-screen text reads.
“Guys, update,” Brig says. “We went the wrong way, and there was no opening… so we have to go all the way back and go around.”
Despite the situation, both women appear calm and even laugh as they maneuver through the tight spaces.
The pair later posted two more clips from the same day, one jokingly captioned “house tour of our new home,” as they sit in an opening, and another where they thanked Verizon for still having cell service deep inside the cave. They also confirmed they made it out safely, writing, “Yes, we’re okay.”
Viewers Are Not Amused
While the women didn’t seem worried in the slightest in these clips, viewers in the comments didn’t find it funny.
“I’m hoping this was posted AFTER y’all got out,” one person wrote.
“My claustrophobia could NEVER,” said another.
Others expressed real concern for their safety. “Was this posted in real time or do u need me to call the cops,” one user asked.
Locals chimed in too. “As someone who’s from Tucson, NEVER EVER DO PEPPERSAUCE!!!! Praying y’all are safe,” one person warned.
One commenter claimed to have contacted the Oracle Police Department. “They stated they have it on the board and have sheriffs out,” they wrote. “They also stated they cannot give any personal information out. I will post if I see anything on the local news about it.”
In response to the growing attention, the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office commented directly on the video, saying, “We are actively investigating this.”
@briggg_02 maybe we should start using AllTrails #hiking #peppersaucecave
♬ Piano famous song Chopin Deep deep clear beauty – RYOpianoforte
How Safe Is Caving, Really?
Caving can be a rewarding experience, but it does come with serious risks. According to experts, preparation is key. They recommend never going caving alone and to always tell someone where you’re going and when you plan to return. Underground cell service is unreliable, so backup communication methods and proper lighting are essential.
Experts recommend at least three people per trip, one to stay with an injured person if something happens, and another to go for help. Tight tunnels and slick rocks also make protective gear, like helmets and knee pads, essential.
According to data from a study analyzing caving incidents between 1980 and 2008, roughly 2 million people visit caves each year, mostly on guided tours or low-risk trips.
Over the 28-year period, there were 1,356 reported victims, an average of 50 a year, and 81 fatalities, or about three per year. Falls, flooding, and hypothermia were the most common causes.
While those numbers might sound small compared to other outdoor activities, experts say most accidents happen because of overconfidence or poor planning.
BroBible has reached out to Brig via TikTok messages and the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office via email for more information.