This Is the Most Claustrophobic Hike in Georgia—Would You Try It?

A typical Georgia trail is all about those wide-open views, whether you've climbed to the top of a mountain or are peering out over the water. Some trails, however, take you to a new place entirely. Today, we're venturing to Cloudland Canyon State Park to explore Sitton's Cave. But before we dive in: Sitton's Cave is not a trail to be explored alone. You'll need to prepare ahead of time to arrange for a guided tour or a permit, but by all accounts, it's worth it!

Exploring Sitton's Cave: Georgia’s Hidden Underground Gem

First, a little background. Sitton's Cave is located in Cloudland Canyon State Park, one of Georgia's most popular state parks. The landscape here is breathtaking, complete with dramatic cliffs, rushing waterfalls, dense forests, and wild caves. Most venture to the park to hike the West Rim Loop Trail, a moderate 4.7-mile circuit that showcases the park's namesake canyon as well as two incredible waterfalls. If you've never experienced this trail, it's a must. But today, we're here for another kind of trail altogether—one that goes deep into a cave.

Guided Tours and Permits: How to Plan Your Visit

Unlike a typical tourist cave, Sitton's Cave isn't commercialized, so you won't be walking along a paved, illuminated trail as you descend below-ground. Rather, you'll be faced with rock scrambles, a bit of crawling, and possibly even wading through streams. For these reasons, it's not possible to explore the cave on your own; you must either obtain a permit from the park manager or sign up for a guided tour. Please note that either option is only allowed during April, June, July, September, and October.

Signing up for a group tour is highly recommended if you are inexperienced with exploring caves. Plus, having a trained guide makes the experience all the more memorable. The cost of this tour, which is around $45, includes all the gear you'll need to borrow: kneepads, gloves, lights, and a helmet. You'll want to wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and sturdy, closed-toe shoes. You'll also sign a waiver before your tour begins.

Inside the Cave: What to Expect

Once in the cave, you'll be completely immersed in an otherworldly, below-ground environment. The air is consistently around 58 degrees F, and it's quite dark. If you have a fear of tight spaces, this may not be the adventure for you, as the ceilings can get as low as three feet in some places. However, those who have braved the tour describe it as completely exhilarating. Also, keep your eyes out for wildlife such as bats, cave crickets, and even some species of salamanders. Tours typically last for about two or two-and-a-half hours.

So, what do you think? Will you plan to sign up for a ranger-led cave tour at Cloudland Canyon State Park? If so, share this with a fellow spelunking enthusiast and let the adventures begin! For more information, please visit the official Georgia State Parks website. Official tour dates have not yet been released for 2026. But if you're feeling impatient and still want to get out to the park, here's why the above-ground portion is a true winter wonderland in Georgia.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.