How to Plan the Perfect Day Trip to Cumberland Caverns

Looking for an exciting day trip full of exploration, adventure, and beautiful scenery? Look no further than the Cumberland Caverns in McMinnville, Tennessee.

Discovered in 1810, this historic national landmark offers a variety of excursions for all ages. It’s the 3rd longest cave in Tennessee and the longest show cave in Tennessee, meaning it’s open to the general public for visits. Cumberland Caverns’ call to action is for visitors to recapture their sense of childhood wonder and exploration by traversing the caves.

If that sounds like your idea of fun, keep reading for how to plan the perfect day trip to the Caverns, complete with an amazing meal after your expedition has concluded.

Start by Choosing the Right Cumberland Caverns Tour

The Cumberland Caverns cave system stretches on for 27 miles under Tennessee. Because of its size and structure, there are many different ways it can be explored.

Before you plan the rest of your trip, you should start by evaluating the various tour options to determine which excursion is right for you.

Walking Tours

For those who are most interested in the scenery versus a more physically demanding adventure, the walking tours are a great place to start.

These excursions are best for first-time cave visitors, families, and any group that has varying comfort and experience levels of cave exploration.

Below are the walking tours you can choose from:

• Cardwell Mountain History Walking Tour: this 45-minute tour avoids all stairs and emphasizes learning about the history of the cave.

• Discovery Walking Tour: this somewhat rigorous 90-minute hike requires traversal of rough terrain, including hills and steps.

• Hidden Gems Private Walking Tour: a 2-hour VIP experience for just your group, you’ll get a private tour to the Devil’s Quarry

• Lanterns & Legends Walking Tour: this 90-minute expedition is illuminated only by lantern light for the entire duration.

Adventure Tours

For those who are looking for a more physically challenging experience, the adventure tours offer a whole new way to explore the Cumberland Caverns.

These excursions require lots of climbing, crawling, and squeezing through tight spaces. Explorers are also likely to get a bit dirty.

Below are the adventure tours you can choose from:

• Hall Crawl: this family-friendly introductory expedition features crawling, squeezing, and getting muddy and lasts 2-3 hours.

• Higgenbotham’s Hollow: a challenging 3-4 hour journey involving climbing, crawling, and squeezing.

• The Crucible: a more intense venture for experienced explorers, this 3-4 hour tour includes crossing the Devil’s Quarry.

• Guts and Glory: the most demanding adventure, this 4-hour tour requires using ropes, handlines, and scaling the cave’s tallest ladder to explore rarely seen passages and formations.

Overnight Packages

For those seeking a truly unique experience, Cumberland Caverns offers overnight packages. Depending on the tour, you’ll explore different aspects of the caves, with each tour having its own physical requirements. Review the overnight packages here to find the experience that best fits your group.

Best Practices for Planning a Trip to Cumberland Caverns

Once you’ve decided what tour you want, some preparation is in order to make the most of your visit. Keep these tips in mind as you plan.

• Book your tour ahead of time. While Cumberland Caverns is open year-round, 7 days a week, tour availability can vary.

• Wear the right clothing and equipment. The cave is cool at all times of the day and in all seasons, so it’s recommended to dress in layers. Comfortable shoes are a must, and depending on your excursion, you may also need gloves and long pants.

• Give yourself plenty of time. You should arrive at least 15 minutes early, but you should also be sure to eat a snack or meal and use the restroom prior to the tour.

End Your Cumberland Caverns Day Trip With a Great Meal

After an active day of exploration, you’ll no doubt be famished. What better way to recharge than to settle in at a nearby restaurant for a delicious meal?

At The Local on Morford, you’ll enjoy a contemporary casual dining experience, complete with Southern hospitality and thoughtfully prepared dishes the whole family will love. From fried green tomatoes to burgers and salmon, we have something for everyone.

Make a Day of Your Visit to Cumberland Caverns

An exciting trip to Cumberland Caverns is a unique opportunity to experience one of Tennessee’s most incredible natural landmarks in a memorable way.

Don’t forget to book ahead, dress comfortably, and save time for a great meal when your journey is done.

Make your reservation at The Local on Morford and give your group something delicious to look forward to at the end of the day.