UTC’s New Classroom: Raccoon Mountain Caverns
Imagine a classroom hidden deep beneath the earth’s surface — that’s exactly what the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga now has, thanks to a generous donation. Raccoon Mountain Caverns is now UTC’s newest classroom for student research.
“Dr. Steve Parlackey had owned the caverns since the mid-’90s, and our Biology and Environmental Science Department had worked with Dr. Parlackey for a long time to access the cave. He was an enthusiast of caves himself and would often go in with students. Eventually, the caverns were gifted to us to ensure they remain an asset to UTC,” said Amy Donahue, Assistant Vice Chancellor of Communications.
With its stunning underground formations and thriving ecosystem, Raccoon Mountain Caverns offers students the chance to study geology, biology, and environmental science in ways they could never experience in a traditional classroom.
“We have alumni and current students who chose UTC and came here to study because of the caverns and the access they provide. One alum reached out to us and said she started crying because it was such a unique experience and a seminal part of her time here,” said Rebecca.
Raccoon Mountain Caverns opens up endless possibilities for UTC students, combining education and exploration in a unique setting.
