Forbidden Caverns
An hour underground past a cave stream and onyx wall · Open spring through late November
Forbidden Caverns is a show cave beneath English Mountain in Sevierville, where a guided walking tour leads you past sparkling formations, tall natural chimneys, hidden grottos and a clear underground stream. The cave stays a cool 58 degrees all year, making it a refreshing escape on a hot summer day and a great rainy-day pick.
It sits east of downtown Sevierville, away from the busy Parkway, and is an easy drive from Pigeon Forge.
What you'll see on the tour
Formations and natural chimneys
Guides lead you along well-lit trails, with handrails where you need them, past stalactites, stalagmites and natural chimneys that reach up through the rock.
A wall of rare cave onyx
One of the cave's highlights is a large wall of rare cave onyx, a banded stone formed by water over thousands of years.
An underground stream
A clear stream runs through the cavern, fed by an underground lake beneath English Mountain.
Lighting effects
Special lighting effects along the tour bring the cave's formations and story to life.
The cave's history
People have used this cave for centuries. Eastern Woodland Indians used flint from the caverns to make arrowheads, knives and scrapers. In the early 1900s, the cave's steady water supply and remote location made it a hideout for moonshiners. After years of planning and development, Forbidden Caverns opened to visitors in 1967. Curious about the region's moonshine story today? See our guide to Gatlinburg distilleries.
A seasonal attraction
Forbidden Caverns is open seasonally, from spring through late fall, and closes for the winter. Days and hours can change, so check the cave's website or call ahead before you go.
Who it's for
Families
Kids love the formations, the stream and the cave's moonshiner history. Think about how comfortable little ones are with enclosed spaces before you go.
Rainy-day planners
Since the cave stays the same temperature whatever the weather, it's one of the best indoor-style stops in the area. See our list of rainy-day things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.
History buffs
From Native American flint to moonshine stills, the cave tells a big part of the region's story.
Tips for your visit
Bring a light jacket
At 58 degrees, the cave can feel chilly even in July.
Wear closed-toe shoes
The paths can be damp in places, so comfortable walking shoes are best.
Check before you go
Because the cave is seasonal and hours vary, confirm it's open on your date before you make the drive.
Make it a Sevierville day
Forbidden Caverns pairs well with other Sevierville stops. Race at NASCAR SpeedPark, shop Tanger Outlets or cool off at Soaky Mountain Waterpark in the summer, then grab dinner from our list of Sevierville restaurants. For more ideas, see Sevierville attractions and fun things to do in Sevierville.
Plan your visit
Frequently asked questions
Where is Forbidden Caverns?
At 455 Blowing Cave Road in Sevierville, east of downtown and an easy drive from Pigeon Forge.
Is Forbidden Caverns open year-round?
No. It's open seasonally from spring through late fall and closes for the winter. Check the cave's website for current days and hours.
How cold is it inside Forbidden Caverns?
The cave stays about 58 degrees all year, so bring a light jacket.
Is Forbidden Caverns in Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg?
Neither. It's in Sevierville, a short drive from Pigeon Forge and a little farther from Gatlinburg.
Is Forbidden Caverns good for kids?
Yes, for most families. The trails are lit and have handrails, but consider your child's comfort with enclosed spaces.
Forbidden Caverns is just minutes from our Sevierville and Pigeon Forge cabins. Bring everyone to one of our family cabins or large cabins, and book direct to get our Stay & Play Pass with free attraction tickets for every paid night.