This Tennessee Town Is Home to America's Largest Underground Lake — and You Can Sail a Glass-bottomed Boat on It

Tucked away in the heart of Tennessee, a hidden wonder awaits. Forget crowded beaches and towering mountains; this destination offers a unique subterranean experience unlike any other. We're talking about The Lost Sea Adventure, home to America's Largest Underground Lake, and yes, you can explore it aboard a glass-bottom boat!

Discovering Sweetwater, Tennessee

The charming town of Sweetwater, TN, might not be the first place that springs to mind when planning a vacation, but it should be. Located conveniently between Knoxville and Chattanooga, Sweetwater offers a delightful blend of small-town charm and remarkable natural beauty. While the town itself boasts antique shops, local eateries, and friendly faces, it's what lies beneath the surface that truly sets it apart. Getting to Sweetwater is easy with well-maintained highways making it a simple drive from most major cities in the Southeast.

The Lost Sea: A Subterranean Marvel

The Lost Sea isn't just a lake; it's a vast cave system with a fascinating history. Originally known as Craighead Caverns, this geological wonder has been attracting visitors for centuries. The Cherokee Indians used the caves for council meetings, and Confederate soldiers mined them for saltpeter during the Civil War. But it wasn't until the early 20th century that the true extent of the underground lake was discovered.

What makes The Lost Sea so special? Its sheer size. While the visible portion of the lake covers about 4.5 acres, divers have explored even further, revealing an astonishing 13 acres of underwater passages and rooms. That's enough to earn it the title of America's Largest Underground Lake recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records.

A Unique Glass-Bottom Boat Tour

The most popular way to experience The Lost Sea is on a glass-bottom boat tour. Imagine gliding across the still, crystal-clear waters, peering down into the depths below. The tour guides are knowledgeable and engaging, sharing stories about the cave's history, geology, and the unique ecosystem that thrives within. You'll see massive rainbow trout swimming below, remnants of past research projects, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of some of the cave's other inhabitants, like bats and salamanders.

The glass-bottom boats are designed for comfort and provide excellent visibility. The tours last about an hour and are suitable for all ages. It's a truly unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of nature's power and beauty.

Planning Your Visit to The Lost Sea

Ready to embark on your own underground adventure? Here's some helpful information for planning your trip to The Lost Sea Adventure:

Activities and Attractions at The Lost Sea Adventure

Beyond the glass-bottom boat tour, The Lost Sea Adventure offers a range of activities to keep the whole family entertained:

• Wild Cave Tours: For the adventurous souls, explore the undeveloped sections of the cave system with an experienced guide. Be prepared for crawling, climbing, and getting a little dirty!
• Nature Trails: Hike through the surrounding woods and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Tennessee landscape.
• Gem Mine: Pan for precious stones and fossils and discover your own hidden treasures.
• General Store & Gift Shop: Find unique souvenirs, local crafts, and memorabilia to remember your visit.
• Old Sweetwater Village: Explore this reconstructed 19th-century village, featuring a blacksmith shop, a grist mill, and other historical buildings.

Essential Information for Your Trip

To help you plan your visit to The Lost Sea Adventure, here's a table with key details:

Why You Should Visit The Lost Sea

The Lost Sea offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience. It's a chance to explore a hidden world, learn about history and geology, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for something different, The Lost Sea Adventure in Sweetwater, Tennessee, is a destination that should be on your travel list. Don't miss the opportunity to sail a glass-bottomed boat on America's Largest Underground Lake!