Explore the Wonders of Tuckaleechee Caverns
Discover the stunning Tuckaleechee Caverns in Townsend, TN—an awe-inspiring underground wonder showcasing nature's artistry and geological history.
Tuckaleechee Caverns, a stunning natural wonder in Townsend, Tennessee, offers an unforgettable journey through the depths of the Earth. This captivating tourist attraction features awe-inspiring rock formations, underground rivers, and breathtaking chambers that showcase the beauty of nature. Perfect for adventure seekers and families alike, the caverns are open daily for exploration and guided tours. Don't miss the chance to witness this underground marvel during your visit to the Great Smoky Mountains.
A brief summary to Tuckaleechee Caverns
- 825 Cavern Rd, Townsend, Tennessee, 37882, US
- +1865-448-2274
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven and wet.
- Bring a light jacket; the temperature inside the caverns is cooler than outside.
- Book your tickets in advance during peak seasons to avoid long wait times.
- Don't forget your camera for stunning photographs of the unique formations.
- Check the tour schedule ahead of time, as tours might be limited on holidays.
Getting There
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Car
If you're starting from the Sugarlands Visitor Center in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, head west on Newfound Gap Road (US-441) for about 5 miles, then turn left onto Little River Road (TN-73). Continue on Little River Road for approximately 9 miles until you reach Townsend. Once in Townsend, look for Cavern Road on your left. Turn onto Cavern Road, and Tuckaleechee Caverns will be on your right at 825 Cavern Rd. The total drive should take around 30 minutes.
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Public Transportation
Currently, there is no direct public transportation from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to Tuckaleechee Caverns. However, you could take a shuttle service or taxi from Townsend, which is the nearest town to the caverns. First, reach Townsend by using a shuttle service from Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge. Once in Townsend, you can call a local taxi service to take you to Tuckaleechee Caverns at 825 Cavern Rd. Be prepared for an approximate fare of $10-$20 each way depending on the distance and time.
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Bicycle
For those feeling adventurous, you can bike from the Sugarlands Visitor Center. Begin by heading west on Newfound Gap Road (US-441) for about 5 miles. Then, take a left onto Little River Road (TN-73) and continue for approximately 9 miles to reach Townsend. From Townsend, turn onto Cavern Road, and you will find Tuckaleechee Caverns on your right. The bike ride is about 14 miles one way and can take around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your cycling speed.
Discover more about Tuckaleechee Caverns
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Little River Gorge
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Cades Cove Primitive Baptist Church
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Dan Lawson Cabin
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Henry Whitehead House
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Mayna Treanor Avent Studio
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Elkmont Historic District
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Sam Houston Historic Schoolhouse
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Tucker Springs
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General Sam Houston Historical Marker
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Goats on the Roof of the Smoky Mountains
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John Ownby Cabin
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Cataract Falls
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Smokies Life
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Unmissable attractions to see
Little River Railroad/Lumber Museum
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Cades Cove Heritage Tours
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Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center
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John Oliver Cabin
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Cades Cove Scenic Loop
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Cades Cove Picnic Area
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The Townsend Wye
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Cades Cove entrance
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Foothills Pkwy
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Cades Cove Missionary Baptist Church
7.3 km
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Tipton Place
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Spruce Flats Falls
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Meigs Falls
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Cades Cove
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Elijah Oliver Cabin
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Essential places to dine
Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro
2.2 km
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Good Vibes On the River
2.3 km
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Jim Bob's BBQ
3.0 km
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Trailhead Steak & Trout
3.3 km
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Pizza Hut
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The Riverstone Restaurant
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Burger Master Drive In
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The Barn
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Elvira's Cafe
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Boss Hogg's BBQ Shack
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The Peddler Steakhouse
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Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que
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The Park Grill
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Crockett's Breakfast Camp
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Cumberland Jacks LeConte Kitchen
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Potter's Bench
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Apple Valley Mountain Village & Cafe
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The Dancing Bean
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Cades Cove Jeep Outpost
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Cades Cove Campground Store and Bike Rental
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Rocky Top Country Store
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Mountain Brothers General Store
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Honeysuckle Rose Boutique
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Puzzled
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Abbey at the Heartland Chapel
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Peaceful Side Social | Townsend
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Company Distilling
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Snoring Bear Diner
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Brackins Blues Club
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Two Doors Down
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Waterfront Bar & Grill
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Irish Pub & Sports Grill
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Par-T-Pub
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Shamrock Pub
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Iron Boar Saloon
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