Raccoon Mountain Caverns

Raccoon Mountain Caverns is a cave system in Chattanooga containing more than 5 miles of mapped underground passages. The caverns hold limestone formations including stalactites, stalagmites, and shield structures spread across multiple chambers.

Local cave explorer Leo Lambert discovered extensive passages here in 1929 and opened the cave to visitors in 1931 as Tennessee Caverns. The site later became known by its current name.

The Crystal Palace Tour showcases underground formations and helps visitors understand how these natural structures develop over time. People come here to experience what lies beneath the surface of the earth.

The cave is open daily for visitors with regular tours through different sections. Sturdy shoes and a jacket are recommended because it is cool and sometimes damp underground.

The cave is home to the Crystal Caverns Cave Spider, a species that lives only in this underground system. This rare creature has adapted to the darkness and moisture and cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

Location: Chattanooga

GPS coordinates: 35.02120,-85.40790

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:30