Forbidden Caverns

Hundreds of years ago, Forbidden Caverns was know 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.  The cave contains many unique calcite formations that are still growing and boasts the largest wall of rare cave onyx or drip stones know 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.  The average guided tour is 55 minutes.  Free parking is provided for cars and buses and in addition, there is a souvenir shop, refreshments, and a picnic pavilion.