Caving & Hiking

Whether above ground or below the Earth’s surface, REA goes deep into the science of underground cave formation and local geology. Explore the back country or delve the depths with guides trained by on-staff geologists!

Caving

$45 – 75 per person | 4 Hours | Year-round

It takes a speleothem (cave formation) about 100 years to grow one cubic inch. Now imagine seeing formations over 60 feet tall and spanning nearly 200 feet. Join River & Earth Adventures for an unforgettable underground caving experience at any time of the year. Explore a non-commercial cave (no sidewalks or electricity) with helmets, high power headlamps, and your imagination. Crawl through tunnels and walk through chambers formed over 550 million years ago!

We are the only outfitter in the country that has actual geologists on staff to train our guides on the science of cave formation and local geology. We offer the best trip out there, period.

Cave trips run year-round, seven days a week. The day begins at 10 am at our Elizabethton outpost. We are usually in the cave anywhere from 2 to 4 hours. This is a super activity for wintertime!

Your booking includes top of the line equipment, expert guides (including an on-staff professional geologist), transportation, and a once in a lifetime experience.

What should I be prepared for physically?

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!

Hiking