Sweetwater

Lost Sea Cave Adventures

The Lost Sea in Sweetwater, Tennessee is known for being America’s largest underground lake and is part of the historic Craighead Caverns. A unique feature is the discovery of Pleistocene jaguar bones and tracks inside, indicating an early, unintended visitor.

Here are some unique facts about The Lost Sea:

• Tour:

The adventure begins with a guided tour through Craighead Caverns, where you’ll learn about the cave’s history and geological wonders. Tickets range from $15-$30

• Boat Ride:

Visitors take a boat ride on the Lost Sea, a massive underground lake covering over 4.5 acres.

• Anthodites:

The cave system is home to rare crystalline structures called anthodites, also known as “cave flowers”.

• America’s Largest Underground Lake:

The Lost Sea is officially listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as America’s largest underground lake.

• Diverse Cave History:

The cave has been used by various groups, including Cherokee Indians who left artifacts like pottery and arrowheads, and Confederate soldiers who mined it for saltpeter during the Civil War.

• Pleistocene Jaguar Bones and Tracks:

The cave is home to the bones and tracks of a giant Pleistocene jaguar, one of the earliest known visitors.

• Hidden Gem:

The Lost Sea is described by some as a hidden gem, a peaceful and static place, with cold water and fish that don’t bite.

• 9-ton rock fall:

A 9-ton rock that fell from the ceiling is a notable feature of the cave.

• Constant temperature:

The cave maintains a constant temperature of 58 degrees Fahrenheit.