Divers in East Tennessee have a number of options for completing their Open Water checkouts (as well as subsequent training). Most of the local shops take their students to one of the numerous quarries that dot the hills of East Tennessee. These former marble, granite and limestone quarries make excellent diving locations and are popular with the recreational crowd. For those divers who opt for a more pricey check-out, or during the winter months, the many springs in Florida are only 8 hours away.
PHILADELPHIA QUARRY
Philadelphia Quarry (off of I-75 at Exit 68, Philadelphia, TN) is the most popular location for Knoxville and Chatanooga area divers.
Philadephia Quarry, known as "Philly" to locals, is about 8 acres in surface area with a maximum depth of 79 FFW. Spring-fed, Philly has two 20 foot platforms w/ bouys, a 15 foot platform, a 30 FFW platform (new) and a "deep platform" at 68 FFW. The thermocline hovers at about 30 feet during the summer months, with a second, distinct layer at about 40 feet. At least a 6mm wetsuit or a drysuit, gloves and hood are recommended from November to May. June through October is 3mm time! The thermocline "flips" around mid-October.
Numerous Bluegill, Crappie, Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass, Sauger and Catfish populate the quarry, giving divers a lot of fun (the Bluegills will nip ears!). There are sunk boats, a truck bed, cigarette machines, a computer monitor and numerous statues and swim-through obstacles for advanced diving and sightseeing. All divers are asked to keep the quarry beautiful for everyone's enjoyment. Please exercise proper bouyancy control and do not silt the quarry up or disturb spawning beds!
Under the ownership of Mike Goss, owner and operator of Adventure SCUBA in Knoxville, many changes have been made. Recent renovations include a floating dock for giant-stride entries, an air-fill station (8-5 Sat-Sun, fills are $6.00), air cylinders are $10.00 per day. There are changing rooms/ bathrooms, picnic tables, and camping is permitted. Rates start at $12.00 per diver. Non-divers can accompany a certified diver for $3.00 entry fee. NO SWIMMING OR FISHING ALLOWED! Get there early and find a good spot for your gear and bring plenty of liquids...hydration is important and there is no potable water on the site.