About Forbidden Caverns

Hundreds of years ago, Forbidden Caverns was known to the Eastern Woodland Indians who roamed East Tennessee’s forests and mountains in search of good hunting grounds. The cave was used as a shelter in the winter and the cave river provided a constant supply of water. Scientists believe the source of the water to be an underground lake located beneath English Mountain, now famous for its spring water. Flint or chert is found here in limited quantities and was used to create arrowheads, knives and scrapers. The cave also contains many unique calcite formations that are still growing and boasts the largest wall of rare cave onyx or dripstones known to exist. An interesting Indian legend explains the fate of an Indian princess who was lost in a “hollow mountain of two streams”…” which is forbidden”. During the early twenties and until 1943, the cave was used to make moonshine. The constant water supply and the isolated location was ideal for Moonshiner’s to make their homemade whiskey. In 1964, a group of business and professional men began the planning and vast undertaking of opening this natural attraction to the public. After 3 years of excavation and development, Forbidden Caverns was opened in June 1967. The approach to the caverns is through a picturesque valley that affords a beautiful view of the majestic LeConte range and English Mountain of the Smokies. Primitive farm houses, a quaint old grist mill-museum and a trout farm are among the many points of interest along this route. A 35-minute drive from Gatlinburg, and 45 minutes from Knoxville, Forbidden Caverns should be a must in your plans to enjoy beautiful East Tennessee and the Smoky Mountains. The average guided tour is 55 minutes. Free parking is provided for cars and small RV’s and in addition, there is a souvenir shop and a picnic pavilion.