Guided Caving Adventure: Explore Worley’s Cave

Guided

Duration: 4 hours

Elizabethton

Features

Kid Friendly

Locally Owned

Wildlife

Shuttle Included

Beginner Friendly

Free Cancellation

Instant Book

$85 Person

(All ages, minimum of 4 people)

Description

Discover Worley's Cave - Guided Caving Tour in Elizabethton, TN with Geologist-Trained Guides

Discover the thrill of wild caving in one of the Southeast’s largest and most fascinating underground systems. With over seven miles of large chambers and narrow passageways, Worley’s Cave near Elizabethton, TN is the perfect place to explore the ancient, mysterious world beneath our feet—no experience required. Whether you're a curious first-timer or a return adventurer, this unforgettable journey into a 550-million-year-old cave system offers both challenge and awe.

Your day starts at our riverside outpost, where our friendly team will outfit you with a helmet, high-powered headlamp, and everything else you need for a safe and exhilarating experience. After a short drive to the cave entrance, your guide will lead you into the unlit passages of this non-commercial cave. With no concrete paths or artificial lighting, Worley’s offers a raw, authentic caving experience that connects you directly with nature. Expect to crawl, squeeze, and marvel your way through rooms like Hobbit's Hallway, the Fairy's Ballroom, the Hall of Masks, and Giant's Causeway.

This is more than just a cave tour—it’s a journey through deep time. With professional geologists on staff, who train our guides in cave formation and local geology, your experience isn’t just exciting—it’s meaningful. If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind adventure that’s fun, educational, and just a little muddy, this is the trip for you.

Duration

4 hours total (2–4 hours underground)

Location / Where to Meet

River & Earth Adventures - Watauga River & Cave Outpost

187 Patterson Ln
Elizabethton, TN 37643

Our riverside outpost is close to Boone, Banner Elk, Johnson City, and Bristol. Guests who arrive more than 30 minutes late to their scheduled meeting time may be asked to reschedule for a different date, subject to availability. Please plan accordingly to arrive at the designated meeting location on time.

Ages & Requirements

All ages welcome! No previous experience required. This tour is suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities. Children must be accompanied by an adult. For little explorers, we recommend bringing a baby carrier for caving.

What's Included

Helmet and high-powered headlamp
Professional guides (including geologist-trained staff)
Transportation to and from the cave

Not Included

Meals or snacks
Gratuities for guides

What to Bring / Wear

Dress for a true underground adventure! Wear clothing you don’t mind getting dirty, and avoid cotton if possible. Synthetics like fleece or polypro are best. Closed-toe shoes with good traction are required (old tennis shoes work great). Bring a change of clothes for after the tour, and leave valuables behind.

ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY River & Earth Adventures

FAQs

How physically demanding is caving?

This is authentic caving, and there are some things you will need to know before embarking on such an adventure. We compare some of the areas to be as challenging as climbing up onto your kitchen counter. Be prepared to walk over different ground surfaces such as mud, gravel, and shallow water.

What if I'm claustrophobic?

Are you claustrophobic? No need to worry; most of the rooms in the cave are big enough to contain a house. With the ceiling 80 feet above your head and rooms ¼ of a mile long you can really relax and enjoy yourself.

About Worley's Cave

This cave consists of over seven miles of large rooms and narrow passages. This is an ideal cave to get introduced to the interesting and adventurous world of caving and suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities. Worley’s cave, near Elizabethton, TN is one of the largest caves in our region.

Explore rooms like the Hobbit’s Hallway, the Fairy’s Ballroom, Tombstone, Giant’s Causeway, Thin Floor Room, the Hall of Masks, Base Camp, and the Bermuda Triangle. You will be in awe of this cave.

We also provide trips to 3 different caves that vary in time, distance, and experience. Let us know your background so we can create the perfect experience. No experience necessary!

What kind of wildlife might I see?

Cave-dwelling species like bats, cave crickets, salamanders, and blind cavefish are sometimes spotted. Your guide will help you observe respectfully without disturbing their habitat.

Is this tour available year-round?

Yes! Worley’s Cave maintains a consistent temperature, making it a great activity in any season.

Cancellation Policy

A 14-day cancellation policy applies to all bookings. Cancellations made within two weeks of the trip date are non-refundable. However, if you notify River and Earth Adventures, Inc. at least 48 hours prior to your scheduled trip, you may receive trip credit for a future adventure within the same calendar year.

Availability

June 2025

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Location

Address

187 Patterson Ln

Elizabethton, TN, 37643

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