Just a 10-minute drive from Chattanooga, these caverns boast stunning cave formations like stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone. They offer regular tours, or for the adventurous spelunking expeditions into the unseen sections of the caverns.
Raccoon Mountain Caverns is a popular attraction located just outside of Chattanooga, Tennessee. It boasts over 5.5 miles of explored cave passages, making it one of the longest cave systems open to the public in the eastern United States. The caverns are known for their stunning natural formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, rimstone pools, and more.
Visitors to Raccoon Mountain Caverns can choose from a variety of tours:
Crystal Palace Walking Tour: This 45-minute guided tour is the most popular option. It takes visitors through a well-lit section of the cave, showcasing some of the most impressive formations.
Wild Cave Expedition Tours: For a more adventurous experience, Raccoon Mountain Caverns offers several wild cave expedition tours. These tours venture off the beaten path, deeper into the cave system. Participants will need to wear helmets, gloves, and kneepads, and can expect to get dirty.
The cave maintains a naturally cool temperature of around 60 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, making it a popular destination to escape the summer heat.
Here are some additional details that you might find helpful:
- Location: 319 W. Hills Dr., Lookout Valley, TN 37419
- Hours: The caverns are open daily, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Hours can vary depending on the season, so it’s best to check their website or call ahead for current hours. https://raccoonmountaincaverns.com/
- Admission: Tickets are required for all visitors. Prices vary depending on the tour you choose.
- Amenities: The caverns have a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs, snacks, and drinks. There is also a picnic area on-site.