Nestled within Lookout Mountain, a renowned natural wonder in Tennessee, lies a mesmerizing hidden gem – Ruby Falls. It boasts the title of the tallest publicly accessible underground waterfall in the United States, tucked 1,120 feet below the surface. Cascading gracefully for 145 feet, it graces a cavern adorned with captivating ancient rock formations, creating a truly enchanting spectacle.
Chattanooga, celebrated for its outstanding rock climbing, biking, and hiking opportunities, proudly hosts this remarkable double feature. While the iconic Incline Railway tempts adventurers with its glass-roofed railcars and sweeping views of Lookout Mountain’s surroundings, the ultimate natural marvel lies hidden within the mountain itself, offering a captivating underground experience.
Exploring the breathtaking Ruby Falls begins with an exhilarating journey. Adventurers descend into the depths aboard a glass-front elevator, plummeting 26 stories straight into the cavern’s core. As the doors open, a captivating subterranean realm unveils itself, showcasing an enchanting display of stalactites and stalagmites, meticulously crafted by nature over millennia.
Yet, the ultimate marvel is the resounding Ruby Falls waterfall. Sourced from subterranean streams and emerging from a cleft in the cavern’s limestone walls, the falls cascade down in a majestic torrent, enveloping the air in a fine mist and filling the chambers with the soothing symphony of rushing water.
To safeguard this delicate natural gem and ensure visitor safety, all explorations of Ruby Falls are conducted through guided tours led by expert staff. The Cave Walk tour, a favorite among visitors, offers a brisk journey through the cavern, complemented by pre-recorded audio commentary unveiling the geological wonders of the cave.
For those craving a deeper immersion, the early morning Gentle Walking Tour offers profound insights into Ruby Falls’ formation and history, led by an experienced guide.
For an atmospheric journey evoking the spirit of the falls’ initial discovery, the after-hours Lantern Tour provides an enchanting option. Lit only by the gentle glow of lanterns, visitors can follow in the footsteps of Leo Lambert, the bold explorer who stumbled upon Ruby Falls in 1928 and fittingly named it after his wife.
Adding to its romantic allure, visitors around Valentine’s Day can indulge in the special Romance at Ruby Tour, available from February 10th to 14th. This intimate experience delves into the captivating story behind the falls’ discovery, intertwining a narrative of love and natural magnificence.
With a consistent ambient temperature of 60°F year-round within the cavern, Ruby Falls captivates visitors in every season. Lookout Mountain extends its invitation with further attractions, such as the iconic Lookout Mountain Tower and Blue Heron Overlook, both providing breathtaking panoramas of the scenic valley and the winding Tennessee River below.
For those craving excitement, the High Point ZIP Adventure offers an adrenaline-filled experience with thrilling zip-lines and a climbing tower conveniently located near Ruby Falls on Lookout Mountain.
Tickets for the Cave Walk tour, spanning 70 to 80 minutes, are priced at $25 for adults and $14 for children aged 3 to 12. For a deeper immersion, the two-hour Gentle Walking Tour or the enchanting Lantern Tour are available at $40 per person. The romantic Ruby Tour, a special offering around Valentine’s Day, is priced at $90 per couple.
To secure your spot and prevent any potential disappointment, it’s strongly advised to book tickets for Ruby Falls tours online well in advance, preferably several days before your intended visit date.
Ruby Falls stands as a testament to nature’s unparalleled artistry, a hidden treasure inviting adventurers to delve deep beneath the surface and behold the breathtaking beauty nestled within Lookout Mountain’s heart. With its captivating waterfall, ancient rock formations, and storied past, this underground marvel is an essential destination for those yearning for an unforgettable rendezvous with Tennessee’s natural splendors.
