Forbidden Caverns

If you’re planning on visiting the Forbidden Caverns, the best way to experience the site is to join a tour provided at the attraction once you arrive. You’ll go down 50 stairs to experience the cave’s highlights with a guide leading the way in a group with up to 30 people at the most. Keep in mind the attraction isn’t currently accepting buses or organized group-tour experiences, so you’ll have to find your own way there.

• Entry is payable on arrival and you can’t book tickets in advance.

• There are restrooms adjacent to the main building and an outdoor picnic area.

• Once you arrive at the Forbidden Caverns, the tour starts from the gift shop.

• It’s always under 60°F (15.5°C) when you’re in the caverns, so you may want to bring an extra layer.

• If you have respiratory issues or are claustrophobic, skip visiting the Forbidden Caverns as there are some areas with tight spaces.

The Forbidden Caverns are located at 455 Blowing Cave Rd in Sevierville, Tennessee. The caves are a 30-minute drive from Pigeon Forge and around 45 minutes by car from Gatlinburg. The site only allows private vehicles to park due to a lack of designated parking areas, so you must arrive in your own vehicle. Parking on-site is free.

Tennessee’s Forbidden Caverns is only open from April through November, closing right before Thanksgiving. The caverns are always closed on Thursdays and Sundays, so if you’re looking for a weekend visit, Saturday is your only option. It’s less busy during the fall months on weekdays if you’re looking to avoid the crowds.

Also in Sevierville is the RainForest Adventures Zoo—a great pick for families or animal lovers. The zoo is home to 600 animals to see and learn about, any time of the year. Plus, since the zoo has the same operating hours as the Forbidden Caves, it’s easy to combine both attractions in a single day if you have your own vehicle.