Forbidden Caverns: an Underground World Below the Smokies
Forbidden Caverns – Sevierville, TN
Discover the Hidden World Beneath the Smoky Mountains
While the Smoky Mountains are celebrated for their breathtaking views and rolling peaks, there’s another side to this landscape that lies just beneath the surface. Forbidden Caverns, located in Sevierville, Tennessee, offers a rare opportunity to explore a subterranean world of natural wonder just a short drive from Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.
Explore Tennessee's Underground Beauty
Forbidden Caverns invites visitors on a one-hour guided walking tour through a fascinating underground cave system filled with remarkable geological formations. Guests can expect to encounter an array of natural features, including stalactites, stalagmites, natural chimneys, and crystal-clear streams that originate from an underground lake beneath English Mountain.
The temperature inside the caverns remains a cool 58 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, offering a comfortable escape from the summer heat. The pathways can be steep in some areas, so sturdy, closed-toe footwear is recommended. While the tour is suitable for most visitors, those with mobility challenges may find it difficult to navigate.
A Journey Through Time
In addition to showcasing its stunning natural formations, the tour at Forbidden Caverns includes a historical overview of the site’s significance. Archaeological discoveries reveal that the cave system once served as shelter for Native American tribes during harsh winters, with artifacts preserved from those early periods. In the 1920s, the caverns were used by moonshiners who took advantage of the cave’s isolation and clean water supply. The area was later developed into a public attraction, allowing guests to safely explore its wonders.
A Unique Natural Experience
Visiting Forbidden Caverns offers more than a scenic excursion — it's an educational and immersive journey into one of East Tennessee’s most intriguing natural landmarks. Whether you're fascinated by geology, local history, or simply looking for a memorable family activity, Forbidden Caverns provides an unforgettable experience that highlights the region’s hidden depths.
Location: 455 Blowing Cave Rd., Sevierville, TN 37876
Phone: (865) 453-5972
Website: www.forbiddencavern.com
Hours: Seasonal hours may apply – check the website for current schedule.
Step into a world of wonder beneath the Smoky Mountains and discover what lies below the surface at Forbidden Caverns.