This Day Trip to the Deepest Cave in Georgia Is Full of Adventure

There is much to be said about the cave systems in Georgia, and for avid spelunkers, it becomes so much more than just a hobby. And with over 500 named caves in Georgia, the state is a hotspot for underground explorers. While thousands flock to tour the illuminated halls of the popular Prometheus Cave, folks in the know will head to Ellison's Cave near Lafayette, GA, instead for an underground adventure unlike any other. 

This unique natural wonder in Georgia is rare and beautiful, and worth exploring. For folks who are brave and willing, this will be an adventure that you won’t forget. Ready for a day trip in Georgia that'll blow your mind? Grab your spelunking gear (you’ll need it) and let’s explore one of the most remarkable geological formations in the state. 

Disclaimer: Despite being a public cave, it is highly encouraged that explorers don't venture out on their own without experience or professional guides. This cave is dangerous and requires the appropriate equipment and gear. Do not forget to talk to rangers at the park and advise them of when you are returning.

Where is Ellison's Cave?

You’ll find Ellison's Cave along a two-mile trail inside Crockford-Pigeon Mountain Wildlife Management Area in Walker County. Tucked inside the Appalachian Plateau, this 20,000-acre wildlife area is a wonderful place for outdoor adventurers and nature lovers. Here, you’ll find vast forests, ridges, streams, and scenic overlooks. With abundant wildlife, hiking trails, horseback riding, hunting, and rock climbing, there will be lots of things to do and see. Since it’s only about 100 miles northwest of Atlanta, it’s a great destination for a day trip in Georgia. 

Another reason to visit? This natural playground is mostly known for its limestone caves. While there is a network of karst caves and underground passages, there are two that are the most dramatic. The smaller of the two is Pettyjohn Cave, and the larger, more prominent cave is Ellison's Cave, one of the top caves in Georgia for hardcore spelunkers.

Dive Into the Underground World at Ellison's Cave    

Deep underneath the ground is a cave so spectacular that you really have to see it to believe it. Not only is Ellison’s Cave the deepest in Georgia, but it also happens to be the 12th deepest cave in the United States. How cool is that? What’s even more fascinating about this cave is that it features the deepest, unobstructed pit in the entire continental United States, named Fantastic Pit.

If you’re interested in referencing how deep the cave is, it clocks in at 12 miles long and 1063 feet deep. To put it more into perspective, the Fantastic Pit is around 586 feet deep, which is twice the height of the Statue of Liberty and almost as tall as the Space Needle in Seattle. Other deep pits and pitches within Ellison’s Cave can be explored too, including Incredible Pit at 440 feet, Smokey I at 500 feet, and Smokey II at 262 feet.

For those who are brave enough to attempt, Ellison’s Cave features a variety of systems worth exploring, which are stunning in their own right. You'll need to hike the two-mile out-and-back Blue Hole Trail to Ellisons Cave route. Along this moderate trail, expect to hike through dense forest and past incredible rock formations. Of course, the cave is the highlight and a reason for a day trip here. It should take you about two hours to complete the hike, but spelunking the cave will add significant time to this adventure.

The best time to visit is from February to July. Since this is a true hidden gem in Georgia, you might have the trail and cave to yourself, although I don't recommend this vast cave for a solo adventure. Bring your furry pal or your favorite partner to scale down this subterranean world with you.

Needless to say, this cave is not for beginners or those just looking to snag an Instagram photo—it is purely for experienced cavers who have a guide or professional with them. If you want to extend your time in the area (which I think would be a great idea), you should plan to camp overnight here. You'll have more time to explore the trails, waterfalls, and more of the small caves in Pigeon Mountain.

What do you think about Ellison's Cave? Do you think it's a great adventure for a day trip in Georgia? Tell us on our nomination page. And before you leave for this trip, you'll want to download AllTrails+ and visit the Wallker County website for more information about the cave.

Want more natural wonders in Georgia? Use Only In Your State’s itinerary planner when you feel inspired. With just a few clicks of the mouse, you could be on your way to your next day trip or weekend adventure in Georgia.