Many folks traveling to the Smoky Mountains are surprised to learn that Tennessee is home to the most caves in the USA. There’s more than 8,350 known caves to date! One of the most spectacular caves is Forbidden Caverns in Sevierville! It is just a short drive from the Oak Tree Lodge and considered the greatest regional attraction UNDER the Smokies! Here is everything you need to know about visiting Forbidden Caverns in Sevierville TN:
1. What to Expect
Forbidden Caverns in Sevierville TN provides visitors with an educational and entertaining tour through one of the most fascinating cave systems in the country! While taking the walking tour, you will pass sparkling formations, towering natural chimneys, multiple grottos and a crystal clear stream. There are also special lighting effects and a stereophonic sound presentation to make your visit even more enjoyable! A professional tour guide will lead you along the well-lit trails that have handrails at all the necessary points and the average tour lasts approximately 55 minutes. The caverns are always 58 degrees year round, which is generally comfortable but you may want to bring a light jacket. After your tour, be sure to check out the gift shop for souvenirs and refreshments!
2. History of the Caves
Forbidden Caverns was originally known to the Eastern Woodland Indians who roamed the forests and mountains of East Tennessee hundreds of years ago in search of hunting grounds. The cave provided a shelter in the winter months and a constant water supply. It’ss believed to be from an underground lake beneath the English Mountain. There were limited quantities of flint and chert rocks found in the cave that were used to make arrowheads, knives and scrapers. From the early 1920s to 1943, the cave was used to make moonshine. It wasn’t until 1964 when a group began the project of opening this natural attraction to the public. Three years later, Forbidden Caverns was officially opened in June of 1967! Since that day, they have been bringing joy to guests’ face for over 50 years!
3. Location and Hours
Forbidden Caverns is located just a short drive from the Oak Tree Lodge at 455 Blowing Cave Road, Sevierville TN 37876. From our hotel, simply head north on the Parkway for 3 miles and turn right onto 411 East. Go 12 miles and turn right onto Blowing Cave Road. The caverns are open Monday through Saturday, April through November, at 10 a.m.. Note that the last tour leaves each day at 5 p.m.
Where to Stay
Stay close to Forbidden Caverns in Sevierville TN with a vacation at the Oak Tree Lodge in! Our hotel features a fantastic location in the Smokies! Plus it has all the comforts you need for a wonderful getaway to the mountains! While staying in our hotel, enjoy convenient and fun amenities such as a private balcony, refrigerator, microwave, and a complimentary breakfast!
Check out all of the rooms at our hotel in the Smoky Mountains today to plan a vacation near Forbidden Caverns in Sevierville TN! We look forward to seeing you soon at the Oak Tree Lodge!
