Is prior caving experience necessary?

No prior experience is required, but you should be physically fit and comfortable in tight spaces.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Participants must be aged 16 or older to join this physically demanding tour.

What safety measures are in place during the tour?

The tour is guided by experienced cavers who provide safety briefings, equipment, and constant supervision.

How should I prepare physically for this tour?

Regular cardio and strength training, especially upper body and core, will help as the tour involves crawling and climbing.

Can I bring a camera underground?

Yes, but you should secure it and use protective gear to prevent damage from moisture and tight spaces.

What happens if I get claustrophobic during the tour?

Guides monitor group members closely and can assist or evacuate individuals if needed; participants should notify guides immediately.

Tombstone Pass Tour at The Caverns, Pelham TN

Tucked beneath the rolling hills of Pelham, Tennessee, The Caverns offers a rare portal into the lesser-known subterranean world of the Cumberland Plateau. Among its most demanding challenges is the Tombstone Pass Adventure Tour — a 3 to 4-hour guided trek designed for physically fit adventurers 16 and older ready to push their limits underground. This isn’t a casual stroll; it’s a rigorous passage through rugged rock formations where agility, strength, and mental focus are crucial.

The journey threads through narrow, sometimes claustrophobic limestone passages sculpted over millennia, surrounded by shale and ancient fossil imprints that whisper the region’s deep geologic history. The Tombstone Pass itself is a notorious bottleneck that tests endurance and careful maneuvering, rewarding those who pass with access to rarely seen chambers and shimmering calcite formations.

The Caverns is a standout destination not just for its size—it’s among the largest commercial cave systems in the eastern U.S.—but for its commitment to authentic, challenging adventure caving. Unlike more tourist-oriented spelunking experiences, this tour demands attentiveness and preparation, led by knowledgeable guides who share insight into the cave’s ecology, geology, and conservation needs.

Located roughly 60 miles north of Chattanooga, Pelham presents an unexpected hub for deep-cave adventure travelers seeking something beyond surface-level hikes or scenic overlooks. The tour’s strict age and fitness requirements, combined with mandatory reservations, ensure a focused, safe, and enriching experience.

For anyone looking to test their mettle in a unique environment where the earth’s raw forces are on full display, The Caverns and their Tombstone Pass Adventure Tour offer a rare invitation into an underground world that few get to see—and even fewer conquer. A blend of physical grit and scientific curiosity, this subterranean challenge is a compelling addition to Tennessee’s outdoor adventure catalog.

About The Caverns

The Caverns is a commercial show cave and event destination located in Pelham, Tennessee. The Caverns offers multiple guided underground experiences that showcase expansive rooms, unique formations, and local cave life. The Guided Cave Tour is a 45-minute, family-friendly route through the Big Room that highlights local history, cave mythology, and concludes with a photo opportunity on the venue’s iconic stage. The Big Room Adventure Tour invites guests to walk, crawl, and climb through hidden passages while searching for salamanders and observing striking underground formations; the experience can be muddy and emphasizes hands-on exploration. Tombstone Pass Adventure Tour is a more rigorous, guided subterranean route recommended for guests aged sixteen and older; the passage includes challenging sections that demand physical effort and preparation.

Guides provide interpretation about geology and site history on each tour, and help guests navigate passageways safely. The Caverns presents options for different experience levels, from accessible walking tours to strenuous adventures, enabling a wide range of visitors to explore the cave environment. Visitors should wear suitable clothing and footwear for muddy, uneven surfaces and follow guide instructions for safety. Tour lengths, age requirements, and accessibility vary by trip; prospective visitors are encouraged to review specific trip details when planning a visit. The Caverns’ combination of natural cave features, guided interpretation, and a unique underground music venue creates distinct visitor experiences in Pelham, Tennessee. Available tours accommodate photographers, families, and experienced explorers, and focus on conservation, respect for cave ecosystems, and clear visitor-safety guidance throughout each trip.