1. Forbidden Caverns: A Must-Visit Underground Adventure
Just a short drive of about 20 minutes from the heart of Pigeon Forge, Forbidden Caverns stands out as one of the most spectacular cave systems in Eastern Tennessee. The moment you step inside, you’re transported to an otherworldly landscape of dramatic formations, crystal-clear streams, and fascinating geological features.
Why Visit Forbidden Caverns?
What truly sets Forbidden Caverns apart is its combination of natural beauty and human history. The cave features some of the most varied formations in the Smokies, including rare “cave onyx” formations, towering stalagmites, and delicate crystal straws hanging from the ceiling.
The underground stream that flows through the cave adds both visual interest and a soothing soundtrack to your journey.
This place offers the perfect blend of accessibility and natural wonder. The well-maintained pathways and effective lighting system make this cave approachable for most visitors, while the dramatic formations ensure even seasoned cave explorers won’t be disappointed.
The constant 58-degree temperature inside the cavern provides refreshing relief during hot summer months, making it an excellent activity when outdoor temperatures soar.
Tour Experience at Forbidden Caverns
Scheduled tours last approximately one hour and cover about a half-mile of walking distance along well-lit pathways equipped with handrails where needed.
Knowledgeable guides lead each tour, sharing fascinating information about the cave’s formation and history while pointing out notable features with dramatic lighting effects.
Highlights of the tour include:
- The dramatic “Mountain Room” with its soaring ceiling
- Spectacular flowing formations resembling frozen waterfalls
- The crystal-clear underground stream that once provided drinking water to the Eastern Woodland Indians
- Towering columns where stalactites and stalagmites have joined together over thousands of years
- Unique formations with nicknames like “Bacon,” “Frozen Waterfall,” and “Garden of the Gods”
The tour culminates in a light and sound presentation that brings the cave’s features to life, creating a memorable finale to your underground journey.
History & Legends of Forbidden Caverns
Long before becoming a tourist attraction, Forbidden Caverns served important roles for both indigenous peoples and early settlers. Archaeological evidence suggests that the Eastern Woodland Indians used the cave as shelter during winter months, drawn by the constant temperature and access to fresh water from the underground stream.
During Prohibition, the cave’s remote location and fresh water supply made it an ideal location for moonshine production. Several old moonshine stills have been discovered in the cave, and guides often share colorful stories about these illicit operations.
The name “Forbidden Caverns” itself comes from local legends that described the cave as a forbidden, mysterious place. Early settlers told tales of strange noises and disappearances associated with the cave, adding to its mystique. While these stories were mostly superstition, they helped preserve the cave in its natural state until it was properly explored and developed for tourism in the 1960s.
Visitor Tips for Forbidden Caverns
To make the most of your visit to Forbidden Caverns, keep these insider tips in mind:
Timing is everything:
Tours run from 10 AM until 4 PM on scheduled intervals. Arrive for the first tour of the day (10 AM during peak season) to enjoy a more personal experience with smaller crowds.
Cave Route:
The walking route includes approximately 10 steps up and 50 steps down, and while handrails and lighting make it accessible to many, the uneven terrain and steps mean wheelchair access is limited.
Dress appropriately:
The cave maintains a constant 58 degrees, so bring a light jacket even in summer. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes with good traction are essential for the sometimes damp pathways.Photography is permitted:
Photography is permitted, but flash may not be effective, and tripods are not allowed.Plan for seasonal closure:
Forbidden Caverns closes annually from November through March, so schedule your visit during the April-October/November operating season.Combine with other attractions:
After your cave tour, you’re perfectly positioned to explore Bush Creek or head to nearby Sevierville for lunch and shopping.
Remember, there are no restroom stops during the tour, so plan your breaks accordingly.
2. Tuckaleechee Caverns: Home of the "Big Room" & Silver Falls
Just a short 10‑mile, 20‑minute drive from Pigeon Forge in nearby Townsend, Tuckaleechee Caverns offers a different but equally impressive underground experience.
Often called the “Greatest Site Under the Smokies,” this magnificent cave system features some of the most dramatic underground spaces you’ll find anywhere in the Eastern United States.
Why Visit Tuckaleechee Caverns?
What makes Tuckaleechee truly special is the sheer scale of its chambers.
While Forbidden Caverns might win for variety of formations, Tuckaleechee impresses with its immense “Big Room” that features a ceiling soaring 150 feet above the floor – tall enough to fit a 15-story building!
This sense of vast underground space creates an awe-inspiring experience that’s difficult to capture in photographs but unforgettable in person.
Tuckaleechee is also home to Silver Falls, a breathtaking 30-foot underground waterfall that creates a spectacular visual and auditory experience as water cascades into crystal-clear pools below. The combination of massive chambers, dramatic waterfall, and remarkable formations makes Tuckaleechee one of the must-visit caverns in Tennessee near Pigeon Forge.
Tour Experience at Tuckaleechee Caverns
Tours at Tuckaleechee typically last about 1 hour and 20 minutes, covering approximately one mile of underground terrain. The tour begins with a descent into the cave system via a man-made entrance, quickly transitioning into spectacular natural chambers.
Throughout the tour, guides share informative commentary about:
- The geological processes that formed the caverns over millions of years
- The discovery and exploration history of the cave system
- Scientific aspects of the cave ecosystem and ongoing formation processes
- Stories of the cave’s role in local history and Native American culture
The highlight for most visitors is entering the breathtaking “Big Room,” where the immense scale of the chamber creates a sense of wonder. The acoustics in this vast space are remarkable – guides often demonstrate by turning off lights momentarily so visitors can experience the profound darkness and silence of the deep underground.
Another memorable moment comes when visiting Silver Falls, where the sound of falling water creates a peaceful atmosphere while the strategic lighting showcases the beauty of the waterfall and surrounding formations.
History & Legends of Tuckaleechee Caverns
The history of Tuckaleechee Caverns stretches back to its geological formation approximately 20–30 million years ago.
But its modern story began when two local boys, Bill Vananda and Harry Myers, expanded a known small entrance and discovered the extensive system beyond.
The two childhood friends, who had played near the small cave entrance as children, returned as adults to turn their discovery into a public attraction. First opened for tours in 1931, the cave shut during the Depression but was re‑opened in 1953 by the duo, who electrified the passages and added proper entrances in 1955.
Their families continue to operate the caverns today, maintaining the personal touch and storytelling tradition that makes a visit here special.
Interestingly, Tuckaleechee also houses sensitive seismic equipment as part of a worldwide monitoring network. This equipment is so sensitive it can detect nuclear tests around the globe, and the cave’s stable environment makes it an ideal location for these instruments.
Visitor Tips for Tuckaleechee Caverns
Here are some recommendations to maximize your experience at one of the best caves in Smoky Mountains:
- Allow plenty of time:
The standard tour lasts 75-90 minutes, and cover about 1.25 miles of underground pathways. You’ll want additional time to browse the gift shop and perhaps try your hand at gemstone mining. - Visit year-round:
Unlike Forbidden Caverns, Tuckaleechee is open year-round and 7 days a week, except for major holidays, making it a great option for winter visitors to Pigeon Forge. Typical visiting hours are:- March 1st to March 31: 10am – 5pm
- April 1 to October 31: 10am – 6 pm
- November 1 to November 30th: 10am – 5pm
- Prepare for temperature shifts:
The constant 58-degree temperature feels cooler than you might expect due to high humidity, so a light jacket is recommended. - Bring a good camera:
While challenging to photograph without professional equipment, the dramatic spaces are worth capturing. Using night mode on newer smartphones can yield impressive results. - Watch your footing:
Some sections of the pathway can be slippery, especially near Silver Falls, so appropriate footwear is essential.
Families with very young children should note that while kids generally love the cave experience, the tour length might test some attention spans. Consider bringing a small snack for energy halfway through.
Before we move on to the third cave, check out our list of 16 hidden things and 13 unique things to do in Pigeon Forge.
3. The Lost Sea Adventure (Craighead Caverns): America’s Largest Underground Lake
Just under an hour’s drive from Pigeon Forge, The Lost Sea Adventure at Craighead Caverns in Sweetwater, Tennessee, offers a subterranean experience unlike any other in the Smokies. Recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as America’s largest underground lake, this destination combines geological marvels, fascinating history, and a one-of-a-kind underground boat ride.
Why Visit The Lost Sea Adventure?
What sets The Lost Sea apart is its massive underground lake-over 4.5 acres of crystal-clear water, with more yet to be mapped. The caverns themselves are a labyrinth of vast rooms and tunnels adorned with rare anthodite “cave flowers,” dramatic stalactites, and unique mineral formations. The site’s history is equally rich, with evidence of use by Cherokee Indians, Confederate soldiers, and even prehistoric animals.
The highlight of every visit is the glass-bottom boat ride across the Lost Sea. As you glide over the water, you’ll spot rainbow trout swimming beneath and learn about the ongoing exploration of this mysterious lake, whose true size remains unknown.
Tour Experience at The Lost Sea Adventure
Here’s what you need to know about The Lost Sea cave tours near Pigeon Forge, TN:
Hours & Closures:
Open daily except Thanksgiving and Christmas, with tours from 9 AM–5 PM. These last about 1 hour and 15 minutes, covering a ¾ mile round-trip on wide, gently sloping pathways. No reservations are required but online tickets are recommended.Attire:
Wear closed‑toe, non‑slip shoes and bring a light jacket for the steady 58 °F cave temperatureAccessibility:
Pathways are wide and hand‑railed, but the slope and steps mean it’s not fully wheelchair accessible. The site is family-friendly, but strollers are not recommended due to the sloping walkways.Extras:
Before or after the cave tour, explore Lost Sea Village shops and seasonal activities or the nearby nature trail above ground.
Knowledgeable guides share stories of the cave’s geology, its colorful human history, and the discovery of the lake. The tour culminates with a boat ride on the underground lake, where guests can dip their fingers into the chilly 56-degree water and marvel at the clarity and depth.
History & Legends of Craighead Caverns
4. Alum Cave Trail: Not a Cave, But Worth It
While not a true cave, the Alum Cave Trail is one of the most iconic hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, blending natural beauty, fascinating history, and sweeping mountain vistas.
Why Hike the Alum Cave Trail?
The trail’s namesake, Alum Cave Bluff, is actually a massive concave rock overhang nearly 80 feet high-an impressive natural shelter that has drawn visitors for centuries. The hike itself is renowned for its diversity: lush forests, rushing streams, unique geological features like Arch Rock, and panoramic views from Inspiration Point.
Alum Cave Bluff is a popular turnaround point, but adventurous hikers can continue to the summit of Mount LeConte, one of the highest peaks in the Eastern U.S.
Trail Experience on Alum Cave Trail
- The trail is 5 miles one way (10 miles round trip) with an elevation gain of about 2,700 feet.
- The first 2.5 miles to Alum Cave Bluff are moderate, passing landmarks like Arch Rock and Inspiration Point.
- Beyond the bluff, the trail becomes steeper, leading to the summit of Mount LeConte and the historic LeConte Lodge.
- Expect well-maintained paths, footbridges, and handrails in steeper sections.
- The trailhead is located 12 miles south of Gatlinburg on Newfound Gap Road, with ample parking.
Trail Experience on Alum Cave Trail
First documented in the 1830s, Alum Cave was mined for minerals such as alum and saltpeter, especially during the Civil War. The area’s rich history adds depth to the natural wonders experienced along the trail.
Visitor Tips for Alum Cave Trail
- Arrive early for parking, especially on weekends.
- The hike is moderately strenuous; sturdy footwear and plenty of water are essential.
- The bluff makes a great rest or picnic spot.
- Watch for icy patches in winter and loose rocks year-round.
5. Cumberland Caverns
For the truly dedicated cave enthusiast, Cumberland Caverns lies about 2.5 hours west of Pigeon Forge near McMinnville. Nestled in McMinnville, Tennessee, it is the state’s longest show cave and a designated U.S. National Natural Landmark.
With over 27 miles of mapped passages, it offers a captivating journey through geological marvels, rich history, and unique adventures.
Why Explore Cumberland Caverns?
Cumberland Caverns isn’t just a cave; it’s an immersive experience. Visitors can marvel at towering stalagmites, delicate gypsum formations, and vast chambers like the “Hall of the Mountain King.” The cave’s diverse tours cater to all, from casual walkers to seasoned adventurers.
Tour Options at Cumberland Caverns
Cumberland Caverns offers a variety of tours to suit different interests and skill levels:
- Walking Cave Tours: Ideal for families and first-time visitors.
- Adventure Tours: For those seeking a more challenging experience.
- Overnight Packages: Spend the night underground.
Historical Significance
Discovered in 1810 by Aaron Higgenbotham, the cave has a storied past. It served as a saltpeter mine during the Civil War and was officially opened to the public in 1956. In 1973, it was designated a National Natural Landmark, recognizing its geological importance.
Visitor Tips for Cumberland Caverns
- Operating Hours: Open year-round, 7 days a week.
- Preparation: Wear sturdy footwear suitable for uneven terrain; Bring a light jacket; cave temperatures remain cool year-round.
Book tours in advance from the official site, especially during peak seasons.
Other Caves in the Smokies Worth Visiting
While Forbidden Caverns and Tuckaleechee Caverns are the most famous, here are a few more underground sites and caves in the Smoky Mountains to consider:
6. Cherokee Caverns
Located just west of Knoxville, Cherokee Caverns is one the hidden caves near Smoky Mountains that offers visitors a glimpse into a 500-million-year-old underground world.
The cave features a variety of beautiful formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, and even small mud volcanoes, all within a 1,500-foot passage. Discovered in the mid-19th century, Cherokee Caverns has a rich history and has been open to the public under various names since the 1920s.
Today, it is best known for its seasonal public tours and special events, such as the popular “Christmas in the Cave,” where thousands of twinkling lights illuminate the natural wonders.
Its smaller, less commercialized atmosphere makes it a favorite for families and those seeking a more intimate caving experience.
Please note, Cherokee Caverns does not operate daily tours and is open to the public for special events.
7. Blue Spring Cave
Near Sparta, Blue Spring holds the title of the longest cave in Tennessee (near Pigeon Forge), with over 38 miles of mapped passages and more likely yet to be discovered.
This vast and complex system is renowned among experienced cavers for its massive tunnels, intricate passageways, and stunning formations.
Blue Spring Cave is also of paleontological significance, with Ice Age jaguar footprints preserved deep within its passages.
Because it sits on private land and is securely gated, access is strictly controlled and not open for casual public tours. Only organized expeditions with permission from landowners are allowed, making it a destination for seasoned caving enthusiasts and researchers.
8. Bull Cave
Hidden within the boundaries of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Bull Cave is the deepest cave in Tennessee, plunging to a depth of 924 feet.
Located in the Cades Cove area, Bull Cave is a true wilderness cave, accessible only to permitted researchers and highly experienced cavers due to its technical challenges and sensitive environment.
While not open to the general public, Bull Cave is notable for its geological significance and the role it plays in the region’s karst landscape. Its remote location and restricted access help preserve its pristine condition and protect the delicate ecosystems found within.
9. Bristol Caverns
Located about 1.5 hours northeast of Pigeon Forge, Bristol Caverns offers a different caving experience featuring an underground river that has carved magnificent chambers. The well-lit walkways follow the course of the ancient underground river through the mountain. With less tourist traffic than the caves closer to Pigeon Forge, Bristol Caverns sometimes provides a more intimate experience.
It’s open throughout the year (except Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day) from Monday to Saturday. However, the timings change according to season.
Practical Guide to Visiting Caves in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Ticket Pricing & Discounts* |
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
Location |
Adult |
Children |
Discount |
Notes |
| Forbidden Caverns | $25 (ages 13+) | $15 (ages 5–12); Free (under 5) | No official military or group discounts currently | No group tours accepted in 2025; no listed discounts |
| Tuckaleechee Caverns | $26 + tax (ages 13+) | $14 + tax (ages 5–11); Free (under 5) | Possible $2 off senior; military discount $1–2 off (unofficial); group discounts not specified | Discounts not prominently advertised; inquire onsite |
| The Lost Sea Adventure | $25.95 (ages 13–59) | $15.95 (ages 4–12); Free (3 & under) | $2 off military; group discount for 25+ with advance reservation | Group discounts require 2-week advance booking |
| Cherokee Caverns | $15 (special events only) | $15 (ages 3+ during events); Free (under 3) | No listed military or group discounts | Open seasonally for special events only |
| Alum Cave Trail | Free | Free | N/A | National Park hiking trail; no admission fee |
| Blue Spring Cave | Not open to public | Not open to public | N/A | Access by special permission only |
| Bull Cave | Not open to public | Not open to public | N/A | Restricted to permitted researchers and experienced cavers |
| Bristol Caverns | $15.00 (ages 13+) | $7.50 (5–12) + tax; Free (under 5) | No official military discount; group rates for schools, churches, scouts, etc., by advance reservation only | Open year‑round except Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve & Day; tours ~every 20 min, ~1 hr duration |
| Cumberland Caverns | $29.95 (Discovery Walking Tour, ages 13+) | $21.95 (5–12); Free (under 4) | $2 off adult & $1 off child on daily Walking Tours (no code needed) | Multiple tour options; cave temp ~56°F year‑round; all tours guided; book 20+ groups early |
- *Prices and discounts are subject to change; always check official websites or contact venues directly before visiting.
- Alum Cave Trail is a free hiking trail, not a commercial cave.
- Blue Spring Cave and Bull Cave are not open for casual public tours.
Parking & Amenities* |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
Location |
Parking |
Restrooms / Facilities |
Visitor Notes |
| Forbidden Caverns | Free parking for cars; buses currently not accepted | Restrooms available near parking lot |
|
| Tuckaleechee Caverns | Free parking on-site | Restrooms available on-site |
|
| The Lost Sea Adventure | Free parking on-site | Restrooms available on-site |
|
| Cherokee Caverns | Parking available on-site | Restrooms available during events |
|
| Alum Cave Trail | Free parking at trailhead | No restrooms at trailhead; facilities nearby in park |
|
| Blue Spring Cave | No public parking; access restricted | None for public |
|
| Bull Cave | No public parking; access restricted | None for public |
|
| Bristol Caverns | Free on-site parking available | Restrooms available near gift shop |
|
| Cumberland Caverns | Free on-site parking; overnight guests carry gear ~½ mile to cave entrance | Restrooms near check-in; none during walking tours; restrooms during overnight stays |
|
Family-Friendly Cave Experiences in the Smokies
The caves near Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, offer excellent opportunities for family adventures that combine fun with educational value. Here’s what you should know when planning a cave visit:
Age-Appropriate Cave Selection
For families with children, both caves offer suitable experiences, but there are some differences to consider:
Forbidden Caverns
- Best for younger children (ages 5–10)
- Shorter (1-hour) tour with wide, easy paths and fun lighting effects
- Less physically demanding; free admission for under 5
Forbidden Caverns
- Suits older children and teens
- Longer tour (1.25 miles, 75–90 minutes) with stairs and dramatic chambers
- Silver Falls and gem mining are highlights for school-age kids
The Lost Sea Adventure
- Great for all ages, especially elementary and up
- Unique underground boat ride is a big draw
- Some sloped paths; strollers not recommended
Cherokee Caverns
- Good for families with younger kids during special events
- Shorter, less crowded tours; check event schedules
Alum Cave Trail
- Suitable for school-age children and older
- Moderate hike with interesting rock features, not a true cave
Bristol Caverns
- Best for families with children ages 6 and up
- Highlights include guided tours through three levels of the cave, including the Underground River, Bridal Veil formation, and Lover’s Leap; paved, well-lit walkways enhance safety and visibility
- Includes stairs; not stroller-friendly; moderate accessibility
Cumberland Caverns
- Best for: Families with children ages 6 and up
- Offers a variety of tours, including the Discovery Walking Tour and the adventurous Hall Crawl; features underground pools, waterfalls, and the Volcano Room with a massive crystal chandelier
- Some tours involve uneven terrain and stairs; not wheelchair or stroller accessible
Safety Considerations for Families
Supervision
- Hold hands with younger children, especially in dimly lit or slippery areas
- Always stay together and follow guide instructions
Footwear & Clothing
- Sturdy, closed-toe shoes required; no flip-flops or sandals
- Dress in layers-a light jacket is needed for the cool (around 58°F) cave temperature
Hydration & Snacks
- Bring water, especially for longer tours or hikes
- Pack snacks for trail hikes like Alum Cave, but not allowed inside caves
Health & Comfort
- Consult staff if your child has asthma or respiratory concerns
- Be prepared to exit early if a child feels overwhelmed by darkness or humidity
Respect Rules
- Teach children to stay on marked paths and not touch formations
- Flashlights are optional; caves are well-lit but a small backup can reassure kids
Emergency Preparedness
- All main show caves have first-aid trained staff and emergency protocols
- Be aware that remote locations may delay outside assistance
Tip: Always check the official website for up-to-date information on age recommendations, accessibility, and safety guidelines before your visit.
Most caves have first-aid trained staff and emergency procedures in place, but the remote nature of cave locations means being prepared is important.
Visitor Etiquette for Cave Protection
As a responsible visitor, you can help preserve these fragile underground environments by:
- Staying on designated pathways at all times
- Never touching cave formations (oils from skin can permanently damage them)
- Taking only photographs, leaving only footprints
- Reporting any concerning behavior to cave staff
- Properly disposing of any trash in designated containers
- Following all guide instructions regarding protected areas
- Respecting wildlife, particularly bat populations that may use the caves seasonally
The “white-nose syndrome” affecting bat populations across the East makes these practices especially important, as human introduction of contaminants can harm already threatened bat species.
Know when is the best time to visit Pigeon Forge.
What Makes Your Cave Visit Unforgettable
After guiding countless visitors through their Smoky Mountain vacation planning, we’ve noted the elements that transform an ordinary cave tour into a truly memorable experience. Here’s how to ensure your underground adventure becomes a highlight of your Pigeon Forge trip.
Capturing the Perfect Cave Photographs
Cave photography presents unique challenges, but with these tips, you can capture impressive images even with a smartphone:
- Use “night mode” or low-light settings when available
- Steady your camera against a handrail (where permitted) for sharp images
- Capture people in the frame to show scale
- Focus on illuminated formations rather than trying to capture entire chambers
- Turn off your flash (it’s rarely effective in large spaces and can disturb others)
- Ask your guide about the best photo opportunities on your specific tour
- Consider purchasing professional photos available at some locations
Making Geological Wonders Meaningful
The difference between merely seeing formations and truly appreciating them often comes down to understanding what you’re viewing:
- Stalactites hang "tight" to the ceiling (they form from dripping water)
- Stalagmites "might" reach the ceiling someday (they build up from the ground)
- Columns form when stalactites and stalagmites connect
- Flowstone creates smooth, flowing curtain-like formations
- Cave pearls and helictites are rare formations worth watching for
- The colors in formations come from minerals: iron (red/brown), copper (blue/green), and manganese (black)
When you recognize these features, you’ll find yourself noticing intricate details that casual visitors miss entirely.
Connecting Your Cave Experience to the Broader Smokies
The caves near Pigeon Forge tell an important part of the Smoky Mountains’ geological story:
- The limestone that forms these caves was once an ancient sea floor
- The same geological forces that created the Smoky Mountains also created the conditions for cave formation
- Underground streams in these cave systems eventually feed the rivers that carved the mountain landscapes
- Native peoples used these caves long before European settlement, creating a continuous human history
- The colder air flowing from cave entrances creates unique microhabitats for plants and animals
By understanding these connections, your underground adventure becomes part of a more comprehensive appreciation of this remarkable region.
Final Thoughts: Why Caves Belong on Your Pigeon Forge Itinerary
Adding cave exploration to a Smoky Mountain vacation creates a more balanced, memorable trip. While the entertainment options along the Parkway offer excitement and fun, venturing underground provides something different – a moment of wonder at nature’s patient artistry.
The caves and caverns near Pigeon Forge, TN, have been slowly creating their masterpieces for millions of years, one drip at a time. When you step into these underground worlds, you’re connecting with something ancient and ongoing, a reminder of the powerful natural processes that shaped this beautiful region long before any of us arrived.
As you plan your Pigeon Forge adventure, make room in your itinerary for these underground treasures.
Beyond these, explore our list of indoor and outdoor things to do in Pigeon Forge. And if you’re looking for places to stay, we got you covered.
Plan a trip to Pigeon Forge today!
FAQs
Both provide unique experiences. Tuckaleechee Caverns offers larger, more spectacular formations, while Forbidden Caverns is smaller but rich in history.
The Forbidden Caverns tour is about 1 hour and covers roughly 1,200 feet of underground passages.
They were called “Forbidden” because locals once kept them secret to protect the caves and their natural resources.
A guided tour of Tuckaleechee Caverns typically lasts about 1 hour.
Yes, it’s worth it for the stunning formations, extensive passageways, and the educational guided tours.
Yes, it’s worth it for the stunning formations, extensive passageways, and the educational guided tours.
No, Cades Cove does not have a cave open for public tours.
The largest cave in Tennessee is Appalachian Caverns, also known as Cumberland Caverns, stretching over 27 miles.
