Journey into the stunning subterranean world of Crystal Palace Cave near Chattanooga with Raccoon Mountain Caverns. Discover rare formations and local cave wildlife on this accessible 45-55 minute guided tour.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
45–55 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires steady walking on uneven surfaces and stairs without assistance.
Wildlife
History
Raccoon Mountain Caverns has been open for public tours since the mid-20th century, showcasing some of the region’s most extensive cave formations.
Conservation
Careful trail management and visitor education minimize human impact on fragile cave ecosystems and protect resident wildlife.
Raccoon Mountain Caverns
Journey into the stunning subterranean world of Crystal Palace Cave near Chattanooga with Raccoon Mountain Caverns. Discover rare formations and local cave wildlife on this accessible 45-55 minute guided tour.
Raccoon Mountain Caverns in Chattanooga, Tennessee, is a publicly accessible cave system offering a variety of guided tours and hands-on mineral experiences. The site features the Crystal Palace Tour, a 45–55 minute guided exploration of spectacular formations such as stalactites and rare helictites, presented with interpretive information about cave geology and local wildlife. For visitors seeking more active adventure, the Wild Cave Tour — Canyon Crawl invites participants to crawl, climb, and slide through narrower passages while observing unique formations in a managed, safety-focused environment.
In addition to guided cave tours, Raccoon Mountain Caverns provides multiple gem panning options and add-on activities. Available packages include gemstone mixes, a large “Mother Load” bag suited for families, fossil discovery bags, emerald-focused pans, and curated arrowhead collections composed of jasper, agate, and chert. Group Tours are coordinated through a request system with staff responding within 24 hours to plan visits and accommodate group needs. Seasonal programming includes themed events such as the Halloween “Beneath the Mountain’s Breath” lantern tour featuring folklore and atmospheric storytelling.
Raccoon Mountain Caverns emphasizes accessible, educational experiences grounded in cave conservation and visitor safety. The operation combines guided interpretation, hands-on mineral activities, and special events to deliver memorable outings for families, school groups, and outdoor enthusiasts visiting Chattanooga and the surrounding region.
Location
Chattanooga, TN
Cave system near Chattanooga attractions
Tours Offered
9 experiences
Guided tours, wild cave, gem panning
Group Response
24 hours
Staff replies to group requests
Crystal Palace
45–55 min
Guided interpretive cave tour
Reserve Crystal Palace tours, wild cave expeditions, gem panning add-ons, or a Halloween lantern experience — perfect for families and groups visiting Chattanooga.
Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes
The cave paths include stairs and sometimes damp surfaces—footwear with good grip helps ensure safe footing.
Keep pace with your guide
Photography is encouraged, but you must stay with the group to avoid getting lost or causing disturbance in the fragile cave environment.
Bring a camera with adjustable settings
Lighting inside the cave is low and occasionally uneven—cameras with manual exposure controls or smartphones with night mode work best.
No strollers or wheelchairs inside
Pathway design and stairs restrict accessibility beyond walking unaided; plan accordingly for young children and mobility needs.
Comfortable closed-toe shoes
Ensures good footing on slippery or uneven cave pathways.
Camera or smartphone with low-light capability
Captures the intricate formations within dim cave lighting.
Light jacket or long sleeves
Cave temperatures stay cool year-round, so layering helps regulate comfort.
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Water bottle
Hydrate before and after the tour; no water available inside the cave.
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