One of the most spectacular show caverns in the country is Forbidden Caverns, which is just a short drive from the Appleview River Resort! This attraction offers the unique opportunity to join a guided tour as you explore sparkling formations, towering natural chimneys, multiple grottos, and a crystal clear stream! Here are the top 4 things you need to know about visiting Forbidden Caverns during your vacation to the Smokies:
1. What to Expect
Forbidden Caverns is a stunning show cavern that offers an entertaining and educational tour for family members of all ages! As you walk past all of the formations, you will learn more about stalactites and stalagmites from your well-trained tour guide. The cave also features special lighting effects and a stereophonic sound presentation to create an enjoyable experience. You can feel comfortable walking through the cave with kids and other family members as the trails throughout the cave are well lighted and there are handrails at all necessary points. The caverns are always a comfortable 58 degrees year round for your viewing comfort but feel free to bring a jacket.
2. History of the Cave
Forbidden Caverns was known to the Eastern Woodland Native Americans hundreds of years ago as they roamed East Tennessee for good hunting grounds. The cave was used as a shelter in the winter, and the cave river provided a consistent supply of water. You can actually still find flint or chert here, which was used to make arrowheads, knives, and scrapers. During the early 1920s and until 1943, the cave was used to make moonshine because the constant water supply and isolated location was considered ideal. In 1964, a group of professional and business men started to plan the opening of this natural attraction to the public. Forbidden Caverns was opened in June 1967 after 3 years of excavation and development.
3. Times, Dates, and Location
Forbidden Caverns is open Monday through Saturday from April through November starting at 10 AM. The last tour departs each operating day at 5 PM and the attraction is closed on Sundays. The address is 455 Blowing Cave Road, Sevierville, TN 37873. To reach the caves from Appleview River Resort, simply take the Parkway/Route 441 North for 2 miles, turn right onto Route 411, and follow the signs! As you approach the caverns, you will travel through a gorgeous valley with wonderful views of the LeConte range, so be sure to bring your camera!
4. Ticket Information
All tickets for Forbidden Caverns can be purchased on-site and are currently $16 for adults ages 13 and up, $10 for children ages 5 to 12 and $15 for senior citizens. Kids who are 4 years old and under are admitted to the cave for free. Keep in mind the ticket prices are subject to change so always check the official website for the most current information.
Check out all of our condos in Sevierville TN today to stay close to Forbidden Caverns and all of the other fabulous attractions throughout the Smoky Mountains! We look forward to seeing you soon at the Appleview River Resort!
