Discover the excitement of gem panning at Raccoon Mountain Caverns, where you'll unearth dazzling stones and explore captivating underground scenery. Perfect for all ages, it’s a treasure hunt unlike any other.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, just a basic level of mobility needed
Wildlife
History
The Raccoon Mountain Caverns have been a site of exploration and mineral collection for over a century, contributing to local geological studies.
Conservation
Raccoon Mountain Caverns emphasizes sustainable tourism by protecting delicate mineral formations and minimizing underground disturbance.
Raccoon Mountain Caverns
Discover the excitement of gem panning at Raccoon Mountain Caverns, where you'll unearth dazzling stones and explore captivating underground scenery. Perfect for all ages, it’s a treasure hunt unlike any other.
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 shoes
Closed-toe shoes with good grip are recommended for navigating cavern surfaces safely.
Bring a small container
Having a personal bucket or container helps you keep your finds organized during the activity.
Use the provided tools
Use the pans and tools supplied by the cavern for the best treasure-hunting experience.
Plan for a couple of hours
Allow 2-3 hours for the complete gem panning experience and exploration.
Sturdy closed-toe shoes
Provide safety and stability while exploring cavern floors.
Small mining pan or container
Helps you collect and carry your gemstone finds.
Light jacket
Caverns can be cool and damp; a light layer keeps you comfortable.
Camera or smartphone
Capture your treasure finds and underground scenery.