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Tuckaleechee Caverns
A visit to Tuckaleechee Caverns is a great way to
explore underneath the Smokies. It is also more convenient to visitors
staying in or visiting Townsend. Tuckaleechee Caverns has been opened
to the public since 1953 and the first tours were conducted by the
light of kerosene lanterns. Today, of course, the cave is wired with
electric lights. One of the most remarkable sights in Tuckaleechee is
an area of the cave called the Big Room - a room 400 feet long, 300
feet wide and over 150 feet deep at its deepest point. Another
awe-inspiring sight in the cave is the 200 foot high double waterfall.
Tuckaleechee Caverns is a bit more popular than Forbidden Caverns,
with about 50,000 visitors each year. You will still find it much less
crowded than most area attractions. The tour follows a one mile path,
so you should wear comfortable shoes. The
temperature stays a constant 58 degrees year round, so bring a jacket. You might
want to consider visiting on a rainy day since, unlike most area
attractions, the cave is unaffected by inclement weather.
Tuckaleechee is still owned and run by the family of one of the two
boys who decided to open the cave to the public in 1953. When you visit
you will certainly notice the laid-back, friendly atmosphere of a
family-owned business. Because it is still largely family-run, the
guides are very knowledgeable and friendly, with plenty of stories to
share. As anyone who has visited several caves will tell you, each cave is unique and each offers its own amazing sights. In Tuckaleechee Caverns you will be amazed at the beautiful double waterfall.
Tuckaleechee Caverns is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. April
through November. Tickets cost $12.00 for adults, $5.00 for children
ages 5-11, and children age 4 and under are free.
Directions from Pigeon Forge: Take Hwy 441 - N into Pigeon Forge.
Turn left onto US 321 (Wears Valley Rd.). Take 321 into Townsend (appr.
17 miles). Take a slight left onto Old Tuckaleechee Rd. and follow the
signs to the cave.
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