The Smoky Mountains Underground Lake, also known as The Lost Sea, is a captivating natural wonder located in Sweetwater, Tennessee, within the Craighead Caverns, a National Park Service National Natural Landmark. This expansive underground lake is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Great Smoky Mountains region.
Location and Accessibility
The Smoky Mountains Underground Lake is situated at the following address:
- Address: 140 Lost Sea Road, Sweetwater, TN 37874
- Phone Number: (423) 333-2289
- Directions: The lake is located on Highway 68, just seven miles off I-75, exit #60.
Size and Historical Significance
The Smoky Mountains Underground Lake is truly a remarkable natural formation:
- Size: The Lost Sea is 220 feet wide and 800 feet long, making it America’s largest and the world’s second-largest underground lake.
- History: The caverns were used by Native Americans as a tribal council meeting place. In 1939, 20,000-year-old bones and footprints of a giant Pleistocene jaguar were discovered. The underground lake was discovered in 1905 by 13-year-old Ben Sands.
Tour Experience
Visitors to the Smoky Mountains Underground Lake can enjoy a guided tour that provides a unique and unforgettable experience:
- Tour Length: Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.
- Guided Tours: All tours are guided and include a ¾ mile round-trip walk on wide sloping pathways.
- Boat Ride: The tour includes a boat ride on The Lost Sea, which is 40 feet deep in places.
- Hours of Operation: The attraction is open year-round, with varying hours depending on the season.
Ticket Prices
The Smoky Mountains Underground Lake offers a range of ticket options to accommodate visitors of all ages and budgets:
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult | $28.95 |
| Child (ages 4-12) | $16.95 |
| Children 3 and under | Free |
| Senior | $27.95 |
| Military | $27.95 |
| Military Child | $15.95 |
| Group Rates | Available for groups of 25 or more |
Additional Attractions
In addition to the Smoky Mountains Underground Lake, visitors can explore the surrounding area and enjoy the following activities:
- Old Sweetwater Village: This recreated village features shops, a glassblower, a blacksmith shop, a sweet shop, a general store, and a gem mine.
- Wild Cave Tour: Available for organizations such as schools, camps, churches, and scouts, offering a more adventurous caving experience.
Unique Features and Interesting Facts
The Smoky Mountains Underground Lake is not just a stunning natural wonder, but it also boasts several unique features and fascinating facts:
- Calcium Deposits: The ceiling of the cave produces a substance with “Neosporin”-like healing properties.
- Plant Growth: Plants in the caverns grow due to spores brought in by visitors.
- Historical Significance: The caverns were used by Confederate soldiers to mine saltpeter during the Civil War, and there are markings on the walls left by them.
Exploring the Smoky Mountains Underground Lake is a truly captivating experience that offers a glimpse into the rich history and natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains region. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a unique adventure, this underground lake is a must-visit destination that will leave you in awe of the wonders of the natural world.
References
- https://www.heysmokies.com/americas-largest-underground-lake-the-lost-sea-great-smoky-mountains/
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g55368-d143739-Reviews-The_Lost_Sea_Adventure-Sweetwater_Tennessee.html
- https://www.tnvacation.com/local/sweetwater-lost-sea
- https://www.southernliving.com/travel/tennessee/tennessee-underground-lake-glass-bottom-boat-tour
- https://thelostsea.com