Can children under 12 join the Riverwalk tour?

This tour is recommended for ages 12 and older due to the moderate difficulty and water conditions.

Is previous caving or swimming experience required?

No prior experience is needed, but general comfort in water and walking on uneven surfaces is important.

What should I wear to the tour?

Wear long sleeves, pants, and waterproof footwear; elbow and knee pads and gloves are encouraged.

Are helmets and other gear provided?

Yes, helmets and waders are provided to all participants for safety and comfort.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?

Tours require a minimum of two individuals to schedule. Solo travelers should arrange to join a group.

Will I get wet during the tour?

Yes, you will wade through shallow flowing water, so expect to get wet.

Explore the Underground Creek on the Riverwalk Cave Tour in Bristol, Tennessee

Located in Bristol, Tennessee, the Riverwalk tour offers a rare chance to explore an underground creek meandering through the Bristol Caverns. This moderately challenging adventure takes you into a subterranean world where the natural flow of water has carved smooth channels and sculpted sparkling cave formations over thousands of years. Unlike typical dry caves, this unique experience immerses you in gently flowing waters that invite a splash-filled journey into the heart of the cavern.

Starting at 1157 Bristol Caverns Highway, this 3-hour guided tour suits adventurers aged 12 and up who seek a blend of exploration and light physical challenge. The cavern’s wide, open passageways create a welcoming atmosphere while the underground creek adds an invigorating dynamic, as you wade and sometimes paddle through its shallow, cool stream. This setting reveals limestone formations shimmering in the dim light, including stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone patterns that tell the story of geological forces at work.

Riverwalk sets itself apart by highlighting cave-dwelling wildlife. As your group moves upstream, you might spot cave crickets and small fish adapted to the low-light environment, a living reminder of this hidden ecosystem’s delicate balance. Helmets and waders are provided, ensuring safety and comfort as you navigate these watery passages. The tour encourages guests to wear long sleeves, pants, elbow and knee pads, and gloves for protection against the cavern’s rocky edges, and bringing your own flashlight enhances the intimate, shadowy experience.

Bristol Caverns itself is a significant gem in northeastern Tennessee’s outdoor recreation scene, a protected natural site that dazzles visitors with its unusual mix of geology and hydrology. This tour gives explorers an authentic taste of spelunking without the extreme difficulty of vertical caving—perfect for individuals or small groups seeking to connect with something truly elemental beneath the Earth’s surface.

The nearby city of Bristol provides a convenient base, blending Appalachian culture and modern amenities, making it easy to balance adventure with relaxation. After your subterranean trek, visitors can enjoy local dining or explore regional hiking trails for a well-rounded outdoor getaway.

Whether you’re drawn by the thrill of wading through crystal-clear underground waters or the chance to witness rare cave formations and creatures firsthand, the Riverwalk tour at Bristol Caverns offers a distinctive adventure that’s accessible, educational, and deeply memorable, setting it apart from other cave experiences across the southeastern United States.