Tombstone Pass Tour at The Caverns, Pelham TN
Difficulty
extreme
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in excellent physical condition, comfortable with crawling, climbing, and squeezing through tight spaces.
Overview
Descend into The Caverns’ Tombstone Pass for a demanding 3-4 hour subterranean adventure. Navigate tight limestone corridors and discover rare formations deep beneath Tennessee's surface.
Tombstone Pass Adventure Tour
3 to 4 hours • Extreme difficulty • Ages 16 & up
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About This Adventure
Embark on an exhilarating subterranean adventure at The Caverns! This guided tour takes you through challenging passages like “Tombstone Pass,” offering a unique experience for those aged 16 and up. Prepare for a physically and mentally demanding journey that promises unforgettable rewards in the depths of the earth.
See the hidden side of The Caverns!
Duration
3 to 4 hours
About
Get deeper when you visit The Caverns! Explore passages where few have gone before, including the challenging “Tombstone Pass.” Our Adventure Cave Tours are guided by seasoned cavers. Get ready for a subterranean adventure that is both physically and mentally strenuous, but very rewarding!
- Difficulty level: Extreme
- Accessibility: Not handicapped accessible
- Age Restrictions: 16 & up
- Reservations: Required, min. 7 days in advance
Please note, if you are the first person to book a tour spot, there is a minimum of two people per booking. Minimum of 2 people per booking. All participants will be required to present a valid ID and sign waiver prior to taking the tour.
Adventure Tips
Physical Readiness Required
This tour requires excellent fitness and comfort in tight spaces; participants should be prepared for strenuous crawling and climbing.
Reserve Early
Book at least 7 days in advance due to limited spots and a minimum two-person booking policy.
Wear Durable Clothing
Long sleeves and pants protect skin from abrasion against rough cave surfaces.
Bring a Headlamp and Backup Light
Reliable lighting is essential for safe navigation in pitch-dark cave sections.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- cave crickets
- blind salamanders
History
The Caverns have been mined and explored since the 19th century, with current tours highlighting preservation efforts since establishment as a commercial site in the 1960s.
Conservation
The Caverns practices strict Leave No Trace principles underground and limits tour group sizes to protect fragile cave ecosystems.
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Adventure Hotspots in Chattanooga
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Helmet with Headlamp
Protects your head and provides hands-free lighting critical for navigating dark cave tunnels.
Sturdy Gloves
Protect hands from rough rock surfaces and improve grip on slippery or sharp formations.
Knee Pads
Offers added protection when crawling through narrow passages like Tombstone Pass.
Moisture-Wicking Clothing
Helps manage moisture and keeps you comfortable in the cave’s humid environment.
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