Deep beneath the hills of the TAG region—where Tennessee, Alabama, and Georgia converge—lies one of the most otherworldly landscapes in the United States. With more than 10,000 documented caves in Tennessee alone, this tri-state area is a subterranean wonderland.
While Mammoth Cave in Kentucky often grabs the spotlight, it’s Cumberland Caverns that holds a unique place in the heart of Tennessee’s underground. Spanning roughly 20 miles of twisting passageways, cathedral-like chambers, and narrow crevices just 11 inches wide, these caves offer a glimpse into a shadowy realm forged over millennia. But Cumberland Caverns isn’t just a geological marvel—it’s also a cultural hub.
Deep within, the famous Volcano Room plays host to concerts, weddings, and performances unlike any other, blending natural acoustics with intricate lighting to create a uniquely immersive experience. Whether you’re touring by lantern light, venturing into the deeper sections on an overnight trip, or simply marveling at the silent flight of bats in the dim light, Cumberland Caverns offers an unforgettable journey through the depths of the caves.
But the exploring doesn’t stop there. Once you emerge from middle earth and blink your way back into the blinding light of day—reward yourself with a cold one at Sequatchie Valley Brewing Co, just a short drive away.
The Best Way to Explore Cumberland Caverns
There’s several ways to explore the caves, as the private group that owns the Caverns is passionate about showcasing this natural wonder. Whether you’re looking for a short and scenic walk or an intense underground adventure, there’s an option for everyone:
- Guided Tours for All Levels: Choose from a range of guided tours that vary in length and difficulty. Some are perfect for families and first-timers, while others venture deeper into the cave system with tight crawls, climbs, and headlamps required. Walking Tour | Adventure Tour
- Overnight Cave Adventures: For groups of 10 or more, Cumberland Caverns offers unforgettable overnight stays inside the cave. Sleep beneath the earth surrounded by stunning rock formations, and wake up to silence you won’t find above ground. Multiple overnight packages offer different levels of intensity, from casual stays to rugged expeditions designed for thrill-seekers. Learn more here.
- Cave Concerts & Events: The Volcano Room, a cathedral-like chamber deep inside the cave, serves as an underground venue for concerts and special events. The natural acoustics and surreal setting make it one of the most unique concert experiences in the country.
The Best Brewery Near Cumberland Caverns
My mind was still reeling from the underground wonder I’d just explored, so I did the only reasonable thing: grabbed a post-hike brew to let it all sink in. I made the drive southeast to Sequatchie Valley Brewing, about 30 minutes from the caverns.
Founded as a family dream, Sequatchie Valley Brewing began as a home-brewing operation and eventually grew into Dunlap’s very first brewery. As owner Eric Beavers puts it, “The brewery embodies the region’s sense of place and creates a welcoming atmosphere reflective of the valley’s charm.”
Today, it’s a hub for both locals and travelers exploring the Sequatchie Valley National Scenic Byway—a region known for its scenic beauty and small-town appeal.
If there’s one thing we’ve learned from this series, it’s that wherever there’s a strong outdoor community, a top-notch brewery is usually nearby. After visiting the brewery and speaking with Eric, it’s clear that Sequatchie Valley Brewing shares our passion: fostering community and celebrating the natural beauty of the landscape that surrounds it.
Sequatchie is in the heart of Dunlap, about 40 minutes north of Chattanooga. They’re open for 12 hours on Fridays and Saturdays, and have a very relaxed, laid-back vibe with frequent live music.
Beer Report
As an ale enthusiast myself, I had to try the Farmer & the Ale, as it was particularly refreshing after the many miles of exploring the caverns. Sequatchie’s most popular brews are the Tennessee Sun American Lager, and the Big Orange Wheat Ale. They also pride themselves on their hard lemonade, which is a must-try for any fruity beer enthusiasts. The brewery has also launched a collaboration with Stone Creek Farms to make a Blueberry Wheat Ale, crafted from hand-picked blueberries from, you guessed it, the farm. The Cartwright Kickers Black IPA is also a favorite for IPA enjoyers.
On the first Friday of each month, Sequatchie Brewing has specials on select pints all day, and has live music that starts at 6:00pm. Their most special day of the year is their Bratoberfest, on the last Saturday of October which features ongoing live music and a mouth-watering selection of bratwursts. They are kid and pet-friendly, and have an outstanding reputation among the locals.
