A Natural Marvel Beneath Sweetwater

The Lost Sea is part of the Craighead Caverns, a massive cave system that extends for miles underground. The caves have been known for centuries, with Cherokee legends telling stories of their mysterious depths. The lake itself was officially discovered in 1905, when a local boy, Ben Sands, crawled through a narrow tunnel and stumbled upon the underground expanse of water.

Today, The Lost Sea covers over 4 acres, with even more water hidden in unseen chambers beneath the main lake. Divers have explored parts of it, but the true size of the lake remains unknown, adding to its mystery.

Guided Boat Tours on the Underground Lake

One of the highlights of visiting The Lost Sea is the boat tour, where visitors board glass-bottom boats and glide across the glowing, aqua-blue waters. The stillness of the underground world, combined with the eerie reflections, creates a one-of-a-kind adventure.

Boat Ride Experience – A slow, peaceful journey through the underground lake, guided by expert storytellers who share the history, geology, and legends of the caves.

Illuminated Caverns – Special lighting reveals stunning rock formations, stalactites, and underground waterfalls.

Subterranean Wildlife – The lake is home to large, sightless rainbow trout, which have adapted to the darkness over the years.

Exploring Craighead Caverns

Before reaching the lake, visitors walk through the cavernous tunnels of Craighead Caverns, which hold many fascinating sights:

Ancient Cave Drawings – Evidence of Cherokee tribes using the caves for shelter and ceremonies.

Saltpeter Mining History – During the Civil War, the caves were mined for saltpeter, a key ingredient in gunpowder.

Rare Rock Formations – Stunning stalactites and stalagmites formed over thousands of years.

Adventure for All Ages

The Lost Sea experience is family-friendly, with a mix of history, science, and adventure. The 60- to 75-minute tour involves a walk through the caverns before reaching the underground lake, making it an exciting yet accessible journey for most visitors.

For those seeking extra adventure, The Lost Sea offers Wild Cave Tours, where participants can crawl through narrow passageways and explore undeveloped sections of the cave.