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Natural Wonders:
Hiking & Exploring
Hiking & Exploring
A guide to the many cave tours that can be taken while exploring the Smoky Mountain Region of East Tennessee and Western North Carolina . . .
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The mysterious realms that exist beneath our feet tend to be a natural attraction to many, and a phobia for others. From geology geeks to seekers of solitude the cave systems of the world are a treat to millions of visitors each year. In this article we will take a closer look below the surface of the Appalachian region.
A Guide to the Cave Systems of The Smokies and BeyondThe Appalachian Region is absolutely full of geological wonders to explore. There are many cave systems throughout this mountainous region that offer tours of the world below, with informative guides that thoroughly explain the history and science involved. This is just a taste of the marvels that await your adventurous spirit. Bristol Caverns
Located just outside of Bristol, Tennessee is … you guessed it - Bristol Caverns. The exact date of the discovery of this cave is unknown, but it seems to have been familiar to locals for many generations. For a $17 ticket you will receive a guided tour of nearly 1 hour that takes you on a journey through underground geology. Along the way you will learn how cave structures are formed, as you are treated to an underworld of beautiful landscapes.
When you reach the bottom of a few flights of stairs, you will see a portion of the river that has helped to carve this gorgeous environment. One of the crown jewels of this cave system is Bridal Veil Falls. While trekking your way through this subterranean paradise, you will have the opportunity to photograph this natural wonder from a couple of different angles.
Appalachian Caverns
Appalachian Caverns is located just to the south of Blountville, Tennessee. There are multiple tours you can take, some of which are in undeveloped areas and intended for more experienced adventurers. Along the way there are areas where you may have the opportunity to get a bit dirty as you squeeze you way through some tight spaces.
It is claimed that this cave is haunted with spirits of those who once took refuge here. But don't worry, we only encountered one shadowy figure in the depths below. On a more pleasant note, this place also features a pretty interesting gift shop with a wide variety of stones and other geological souvenirs.
Check out their tour information at appalachiancavernstn.com
Forbidden Caverns
Located just outside of Sevierville, Tennessee, Forbidden Caverns offers daily tours of a subterranean environment that has been used by Native Americans and moonshiners alike. It is deep within this wonderous environment, you will hear tales of the history and pre-history of The Smoky Mountains.
Exploration of this cave involves about a 45 minute tour that requires the navigating of multiple stairways. It is not too strenuous, but be prepared for a bit of exercise along the way. At a constant 58 degrees Fahrenheit, this makes for a refreshing summertime excursion for those looking to beat the heat.
Forbidden Caverns gets its name from a Native American legend that was designed to keep children away from the potentially dangerous cave. For those that dare venture inside, there are many interesting locations to be explored down here. With descriptions like "The Stone Waterfall" and the eerily named "Grotto of the Dead", your visit will prove to be very entertaining.
The nearby tourist towns of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg supply Forbidden Caverns with a nearly endless amount of visitors, so be sure to get there early to beat the traffic and secure a good parking spot.
For more information
visit the Forbidden Caverns official website. Tuckaleechee Caverns
It was in the early 1900's that two small boys would often play near the the opening to this unexplored environment on the outskirts of Townsend, Tennessee. As they grew older, they began to venture deeper inside to see just how expansive this cave was. Eventually, they were called off to war, and the cave once again resided unnoticed. Upon returning home, they pooled their money to purchase the land and continued to explore and build paths and stairways into this impressive landscape. It wasn't long before they would be open for business. To this day, Tuckaleechee Caverns remains in the family of one of the original explorers.
Be prepared to spend over an hour in this subterranean wonderland. This cavernous trek may not be for everyone, as there are over 400 staircase steps to be taken downward and once again retraced to the surface. As strenuous as this may sound, the effort is well rewarded by the views in "The Big Room" and at the end of the tour with the breathtaking "Silver Falls".
At one point the guide called to our attention a large black pile. He then explained that this was guano (bat excrement). As it turns out, bats are latrine animals - meaning they defecate only in certain areas. Sorry, I couldn't resist adding this interesting bit of info.
For more information,
visit the official Tuckaleechee Caverns website. The Lost Sea
The Lost Sea is another cave system in the East Tennessee area that is visited by many tourists each year. In this exciting underground adventure you will be treated to a ride in a glass bottom boat far beneath the earth's surface. I have not visited this one since I was a child, but I feel it again calling my name.
Visit the official website of The Lost Sea to learn more.
Linville Caverns
Linville Caverns was discovered in the early 1800's, and was later used as a refuge by Civil War deserters. The cave finally opened to the public in the 1930's, and is the only one of its kind offering tours in the entire state of North Carolina. This cave system is home to a thriving community of bats native to the area. These creatures are under the current threat of white-nose syndrome, which is caused by a fungus that can coat their noses and disrupt their general wellbeing. Measures are being taken to prevent the spread of this disease, by having visitors step on a bleach pad before entering.
The interior of the cave offers an amazing display of color due to the secondary mineral deposits (speleothems) found in the continuously forming structures. As beautiful as these formations may be, it is important not to touch, as oils from the skin will disrupt this process. With a tour of about 30 minutes, this cave is not quite as large as others. There are a few tight squeezes, but overall, the trek downward is fairly easy and suitable for all ages. Be sure to get there early, as lines can be long and parking is limited.
The Appalachian region hosts an enormous amount of opportunity for thrill seekers and nature enthusiasts. Along the state lines of East Tennessee and Western North Carolina there is much adventuring to be had. From spelunking and rafting to camping and hiking there is something to be enjoyed by the entire family.
Visit my guide to The Smokies to learn more!
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