While the Smokies are known for their towering peaks and diverse wildlife, the area has other features to check out. Waterfalls are a popular site along hiking trails, but caves are unique, less popular features that are just as fascinating! Read on to learn more about a few Great Smoky Mountain caves and where to find them:
1. Moonshine Cave
One cave to explore in the Smokies is the Moonshine Cave. It is a man-made structure that the settlers used to store moonshine. This is a type of whiskey made from corn or other grains. It can be flavored with fruit. The fresh water and cool temperatures created a natural refrigeration system for the beverage.
Where do you find the Moonshine Cave? It is located on the Courthouse Rock Trail. This is an unmarked trail that is 2.3 miles roundtrip. While it is short, the route is considered challenging. This is due to the slippery parts on the various bridges. Hikers must also choose their own path at some points. The task is easier due to the rock formations created by past hikers. If you’re hiking the Courthouse Rock Trail for the first time, it is a good idea to speak to a knowledgeable park ranger about the best possible route.
2. Quilliam Cave
Quilliam Cave is another feature that can be reached from the Courthouse Rock Trail. It is named after the settler family that built the Moonshine Cave. While hiking on the Courthouse Rock Trail, hikers will reach an unmaintained “manway.” Keep in mind that the path is very rugged and should only be traveled by experienced hikers. Quilliam Cave is a massive rock outcropping that boasts a great view of Sugarland Ridge (Officially Named Sugarland Mountain). The ridge is 12 miles long! It runs from Kuwohi down to Little River Road. The structure divides the park’s north-central and northwestern sections.
3. Gregory’s Cave
Gregory’s Cave is located in Cades Cove. It formed when the limestone and sandstone fractured and weathered. It is named after a settler who once lived in the area. The cave is one of the largest in Cades Cove. The entrance is 10 feet wide and 4 feet tall. Visitors will love that it’s easy to find on the Cades Cove Loop. After passing the entrance of Sparks Lane near the John Oliver Cabin, hike the loop until you see a gated-off dirt road to the right. Walk a little bit farther, and you’ll reach Gregory’s Cave.
4. Blowhole Cave
Blowhole Cave is located in the Whiteoak Sink area. It gets its name because there is a constant flow of cool air coming from the entrance. To reach the cave, hike along the Whiteoak Sinks Trail, which is 4.6 miles roundtrip. Visitors cannot enter the cave, as it houses the endangered Indiana Bat population. Even so, it is still interesting to peek inside. Other things to see here include Rainbow Cave Falls. This is a secret 40-foot waterfall most people don’t know about that drops into an underground cave.
More Smoky Mountain Hidden Gems
Now you know all about some Great Smoky Mountain caves and where to find them. Want to know about more hidden gems in the park? Here is our list of hidden places in the Smokies!
