While the Great Smoky Mountains are famous for their towering peaks and lush trails, some of the area's most incredible views are hidden deep underground. Located in Sevierville beneath English Mountain, Forbidden Caverns offers a fascinating subterranean adventure filled with sparkling mineral formations, rich local lore, and cool mountain water.
It is one of Tennessee’s most unique, family-friendly natural wonders—and the perfect escape whether you're dodging a summer heatwave or a rainy day in the mountains.
Featured Underground Destination
Forbidden Caverns Tour
Explore illuminated rock chimneys, subterranean grottos, and sparkling cave onyx with an expert guide.
🦇 Tour Highlights & What You'll See
1. Rare Cave Onyx & Flowstone Walls
Forbidden Caverns features one of the largest walls of rare cave onyx (flowstone) in the United States. As you walk through the chambers, you'll see sparkling stalactites, stalagmites, towering natural chimneys, and unique rock shapes—including a natural formation shaped like the state of Tennessee.
2. Secret Moonshine History
Long before it became a public attraction, the cave served as a winter shelter for Eastern Woodland Native Americans and a source of flint for arrowheads. Later, during Prohibition and through the early 1940s, local moonshiners used the cave's hidden chambers and pure water supply to run secret moonshine stills. You'll even see remnants of historic moonshine equipment along the tour path!
3. Underground Streams & Glowing Grottos
A crystal-clear subterranean stream—fed by an underground lake beneath English Mountain—runs throughout the cavern. Dramatic, colorful lighting and stereophonic sound presentations bring the grottos and reflecting pools to life as your guide shares the legends and geology of the cave.
📋 Tour Essentials at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Tour Length | Approximately 50 to 60 minutes guided walking tour. |
| Cave Temperature | A constant 58°F (14°C) year-round. |
| Operating Season | Open seasonally from April 1 through late November (Closed Thursdays & Sundays). |
| Trail Conditions | Well-lit paved trails with handrails, featuring one section of 50 descending narrow stairs. |
💡 Insider Tips for Your Underground Adventure
- 🧥 Bring a Light Jacket: No matter how hot it gets outside, the cave stays a chilly 58°F year-round. Bring a sweater or hoodie for everyone in your group.
- 👟 Wear Closed-Toe Shoes: Cave paths can be damp and slippery, so leave flip-flops at your cabin and wear sturdy sneakers or walking shoes with good traction.
- 🚻 Use the Restrooms First: Restrooms are located at the main building and gift shop, but there are no facilities once you enter the cavern.
- 📸 Know the Camera Rules: Photography is welcome when the group is stopped. Video recording, tripods, and monopods are strictly prohibited inside.
- 🚫 Accessibility Note: Because of narrow passageways, damp steps, and tight spaces, the tour is not stroller or wheelchair accessible and is not recommended for those with severe mobility issues.
- 🎟️ No Advance Tickets Required: Tickets are sold on-site on a first-come, first-served basis, with tours departing regularly throughout the day.