“It’s a fun activity to go 260 feet down in an elevator to explore the underground caverns. Our tour was one of the high points of our trip.”
– Sarah Johnson
“I went with my kids. It was a blast!”
– Michael Carter
Ruby Falls Overview
Ruby Falls is one of the most breathtaking natural attractions in the United States, featuring the tallest underground waterfall that is open to the public. Located at 1720 S. Scenic Hwy, Chattanooga, TN 37409, Ruby Falls serves as an enchanting destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The falls stand at a staggering 145 feet, nestled within the rocky caverns of Lookout Mountain. The experience begins with a thrilling ride down in a glass-front elevator that takes visitors 260 feet underground to the cavern trail. Once inside, visitors walk through spectacular limestone formations adorned with beautiful stalactites and stalagmites before reaching the mesmerizing waterfall itself.
The falls were discovered in 1928 by Leo Lambert, who decided to name the waterfall after his wife, Ruby. Today, it stands as a testament to both nature’s beauty and the adventurous spirit of exploration. Visitors are not only treated to a magnificent waterfall but also learn about the geological history and formations found throughout the cavern, making Ruby Falls a full-package educational experience. The facility offers guided tours, ensuring that you will not miss any of the spectacular views and fascinating stories behind the formation.
Beyond just the falls, Ruby Falls is situated in Lookout Mountain, which hosts other attractions such as the Lookout Mountain Tower, promising stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the Cumberland Plateau and Tennessee River. If you fancy outdoor fun, the venue also features the High Point ZIP Adventure, consisting of zip lines and climbing activities that let you immerse yourself deeply in nature during the warmer months. For those looking to extend their adventure, the site offers treehouse accommodations, allowing visitors to stay overnight and experience the serenity of the forest.
The experience at Ruby Falls compels visitors of all ages. Kids marvel at the wonders of the underground world, while adults enjoy the scenic beauty and the skilful blends of nature and adventure. With a café serving light snacks and a spacious gift shop to take home a piece of your adventure, Ruby Falls is a perfect day trip destination for families, friends, or even solo adventurers.
Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast or just in for a remarkable experience, Ruby Falls invites you to explore the intriguing wonders hidden beneath Lookout Mountain, making your visit memorable and enriching.
How to Plan a Visit To Ruby Falls
Planning a visit to Ruby Falls can be an exciting endeavor, ensuring a fun-filled day for you and your companions. First and foremost, check the official Ruby Falls website for the operating hours as they tend to vary by season. It is advisable to arrive early in the day if you want to avoid the crowd, especially during weekends or holidays when it can get busier. Knowing the peak times can help you enjoy your visit with a more relaxed pace. It’s also a good idea to book your tickets online in advance. This practice not only secures your spot but often includes discounts not available at the gate.
When preparing for your visit to Ruby Falls, it is crucial to dress appropriately for the conditions inside the caverns. The temperature inside typically ranges between 56 to 62 degrees Fahrenheit, so wearing layers is advisable. Comfortable clothing and good walking shoes are recommended since you’ll be walking along uneven terrain. Be sure to check the weather forecast as well, as outdoor activities may depend on conditions, especially if you plan on taking part in the High Point ZIP Adventure.
If you are visiting with a large group, Ruby Falls offers group packages designed to accommodate larger parties at a discounted rate. This option can be great for schools, family reunions, or corporate outings. It is best to contact the visitor services directly for more information about group tours. Additionally, for visitors with mobility challenges, Ruby Falls has accommodations to ensure everyone can enjoy the experience. The elevator ride and walkways are wheelchair accessible, allowing those with different physical abilities to explore the caverns comfortably.
Bring along your camera as Ruby Falls provides a remarkable visual experience. However, be mindful of the tour rules regarding photography, especially around the waterfall where the beauty is breathtaking yet precarious. Capturing the moment on camera adds to the adventure but remember that some areas may restrict the use of flash photography to preserve the natural habitat. Always follow any posted guidelines.
Lastly, consider exploring some of the nearby attractions like Rock City, Point Park, or the Chattanooga Choo Choo for a more diversified visit. These sites are easily accessible after your Ruby Falls experience and can enrich your day with further exploration into what the area has to offer. Whether it’s a refreshing stop for food or another sightseeing opportunity, these attractions complement the adventure at Ruby Falls beautifully.
What to Do During a Visit to Ruby Falls
Your adventure at Ruby Falls is sure to be filled with various engaging activities to take part in. The primary highlight, of course, is the breathtaking underground waterfall which enchants visitors with its beauty. Guided tours are conducted where knowledgeable staff provide insights into the geological formations nearby and the history of Ruby Falls itself. You can expect a blend of education and awe-inspiring sights as you make your way through the caverns.
As you journey through the caverns, pay attention to the diverse formations, including the dramatic stalactites and stalagmites. The tour guides will highlight the science behind these fascinating rock formations and how they developed over millions of years. When you finally arrive at the waterfall, be ready for an unforgettable moment. The thundering sounds of cascading water, coupled with the dimly-lit surroundings, create an almost magical atmosphere. Many visitors find themselves captivated by this natural wonder, and it’s worth spending time soaking in the views.
For thrill-seekers, the High Point ZIP Adventure showcases a more adrenaline-pumping side of Ruby Falls. During the warmer months, the zip line and climbing activities offer a unique way to see the landscape of Lookout Mountain from a different perspective. Participants can soar through the treetops, appreciating nature from above and enjoying the thrill of speed while maintaining safety. This is an exciting addition that perfectly complements the serene experience of the waterfall tour.
Families will appreciate the kid-friendly atmosphere at Ruby Falls. The attractions provide an enjoyable experience for all ages, making it a perfect outing for family trips. Children often marvel at the underground tour, and it can be a fantastic educational experience as it offers a chance to learn about geology and natural history in an interactive environment.
After touring the caverns, don’t miss out on the small café available at the facility. It serves refreshments and snacks, providing a good opportunity to relax and recharge after your excursion. The café is also a great spot to gather and share your experiences from the tour while enjoying light bites with your friends or family. Alternatively, the gift shop is a must-visit. You can find souvenirs, gifts, and educational materials related to the cave experience, which can serve as great memento reminders of your visit.
Visitors can also take advantage of the scenic Lookout Mountain Tower, where you can capture breathtaking views of the vast Cumberland Plateau and Tennessee River. It is an excellent way to transition after exploring the underground caverns—an opportunity to see the stunning landscape above ground. This combination of activities makes Ruby Falls not just a destination for sightseeing but an experience that offers various fun-filled options suitable for everyone.
When To Visit Ruby Falls
Choosing the right time to visit Ruby Falls can greatly enhance your experience. The attraction is open year-round, but the peak times generally fall during spring and summer when visitors flock to explore the stunning natural wonder. This period can attract larger crowds, particularly on weekends and holidays, so planning a visit during weekdays may provide a more relaxed experience. If you prefer a quieter visit, aim for mornings right after opening or during the late afternoon hours when many tourists have left for the day.
During peak seasons, guided tours can become crowded and less intimate, making it more challenging to appreciate the beauty of the cavern and waterfall. Additionally, visiting during the offseason—fall and winter—can provide a unique experience. In the fall, the foliage outside adds beautiful colors, making the scenery outside the caverns stunningly picturesque. In winter, while it may be chillier, the cavern temperature remains constant, allowing comfortable exploration inside.
The High Point ZIP Adventure operates seasonally, predominantly in spring and summer months, so if you’re keen on such activities, make sure to plan your visit when these options are available. Be aware that weather conditions can affect these outdoor activities. For instance, rain or storms may cause temporary closures for safety reasons. Always check the weather in advance and see if there are any updates on the adventure schedule.
For photographers or those looking for more scenic vistas during their visit, consider planning your visit around sunrise or sunset. The lighting during these times can enhance the natural beauty both inside and outside the cave. It provides a magical touch to your photos and allows time to take in the beauty without interference from large crowds.
For families planning school outings, it’s best to consult the Ruby Falls website for special group rates and options that can accommodate larger parties. Choosing as off-peak time for group visits can ensure a smoother experience where children can fully absorb the learning moments without feeling overwhelmed by crowds.
Amenities and Facilities in Ruby Falls
The amenities at Ruby Falls are designed to enhance the visitor experience, making it both comfortable and enjoyable. Upon arriving at Ruby Falls, guests will find free parking available, allowing easy accessibility to the entrance facility without the hassle of finding a place to park. The design is traveler-friendly, with direct access to the main attractions.
Inside the visitor center, you will find a welcoming atmosphere filled with helpful staff ready to assist with any inquiries. The elaborately designed lobby features educational displays about limestone and cave formations right from the start, adding to the experience as you wait for your tour to begin. The center also includes restrooms for convenience before and after your underground adventure.
The café at Ruby Falls offers a selection of light snacks and drinks, giving visitors a chance to refresh and fuel up after touring the caverns. It is an excellent spot for groups to gather after their tours and bask in the experience they have just shared while enjoying a casual meal together. The café focuses on quick service to ensure that even if you are in a hurry, you can grab something nutritious before moving onto the next attraction.
Don’t forget to check out the spacious gift shop that operates within the facility. Here, you will find various souvenirs, educational materials, and keepsakes that serve as mementos to remember your visit. It’s an excellent opportunity to purchase gifts for loved ones or something special for yourself, and the products typically reflect local crafts and themes related to the cave and its features.
Ruby Falls goes great lengths to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges. The facilities include ramps and accessible paths ensuring everyone can explore the scenic beauty of the caverns and waterfall. Special provisions for guest comfort make it a welcoming environment for families with strollers or individuals with wheelchairs.
Additionally, safety is a priority at Ruby Falls, with trained staff members readily available to assist in various scenarios. During tours, guides can provide insights while also keeping an eye on visitor safety. Emergency protocols are in place, and staff members are prepared to address unexpected situations.
Tips to Consider During a Visit To Ruby Falls
Visit Early or Late in the Day
One of the best tips when planning your visit to Ruby Falls is to arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon. During the middle of the day, especially on weekends or holidays, crowds can swell significantly. Arriving earlier or later increases your chances of enjoying a more intimate experience with fewer distractions and disturbances from other visitors. A calmer atmosphere allows you to absorb more details about the caverns and the history presented by the tour guides.
Check Weather Conditions
Before setting out for Ruby Falls, it is wise to check the weather forecast. While the cave temperature remains steady, you want to be adequately prepared for any changing conditions outside that may affect your plans, particularly if many of your activities will occur outdoors, like the High Point ZIP Adventure. It’s best to stay informed about potential rain or storms that could cause closures or alter opening times. Dressing appropriately while taking note of the weather can ensure you have an enjoyable visit.
Engage with the Guides
Make the most out of your visit by actively engaging with the guides during your tour. Ruby Falls staff are knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the history, geology, and natural beauty of the site. They are there to enhance your experience by sharing interesting facts and stories that make the journey even more captivating. Do not hesitate to ask questions; the more you engage, the more enriching your visit will be.
How to Get to Ruby Falls
Getting to Ruby Falls is quite straightforward for visitors in the Chattanooga area. From downtown Chattanooga, you can simply take U.S. Route 27 South, then exit onto Scenic Highway. The entrance is well-marked, and parking is available once you arrive. If you are traveling using a GPS or mapping app, simply enter the address 1720 S. Scenic Hwy, Chattanooga, TN 37409 and follow the navigation instructions. The location is easily accessible, and road signs throughout the area make it easy to find your way. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition if traveling from afar, as mountainous roads could demand attentive driving.
What People are Saying
“It’s a fantastic experience! The tour guides are informative and funny, making the trip enjoyable. I took my kids, and they had a blast!”– Emily Stanton
“Absolutely stunning! The underground waterfall is breathtaking and a truly unique experience. Don’t forget to check out the gift shop!”– James McCoy
“The cave tour was fascinating. I learned so much about geology and enjoyed the hike. And the views from Lookout Mountain Tower are incredible!”– Rebecca White
“If you love nature, you must stop by Ruby Falls. A refreshing bliss amidst nature. The ride down in the elevator is thrilling!”– Robert Chen
“Great for families! Our children enjoyed every moment, and I loved the educational aspect of the tour. It’s a fantastic day trip!”– Karen Lopez
“What an adventure! The zip line was exhilarating, and the waterfall tour felt magical. Definitely coming back!”– Paul Harris
Nearby Attractions to Check Out
Rock City
Rock City is an iconic attraction located on Lookout Mountain, just a short drive from Ruby Falls. Famous for its unique rock formations and breathtaking views, Rock City features a series of walking paths that wind through massive granite boulders and lush gardens. With more than 400 species of plants, the area bursts with color and charm in every season.
Visitors to Rock City can traverse through the famous “Swing-A-Long Bridge,” providing an aerial view of the surrounding landscape. The site also hosts various seasonal events and festivals throughout the year, adding layers of excitement for returning visitors. A day spent at Rock City can be an unforgettable addition to your Ruby Falls adventure.
Address: 1400 Patten Rd, Lookout Mountain, GA 30750
Point Park
Point Park is another notable location situated on Lookout Mountain. It operates as a Civil War memorial park, commemorating the battles fought in the region. The park showcases historic monuments and offers visitors a picturesque view of Chattanooga. It’s a serene area perfect for picnics, hiking, and soaking in the rich history of the area.
The park includes walking trails that lead you through a lush landscape while experiencing panoramic views of the Tennessee River. Educational signage provides insights into the historical significance of the Euchee Valley and surrounding areas. Taking a stroll through Point Park is a wonderful way to reflect and appreciate the natural beauty around Ruby Falls.
Address: 1780 E. Brow Rd, Lookout Mountain, TN 37350
Chattanooga Choo Choo
The Chattanooga Choo Choo is a historic landmark that has been converted into a hotel and entertainment complex situated in downtown Chattanooga. Here, visitors can explore the train-themed museum and learn about the transportation history connected to the area. The site features vintage railway cars converted into restaurants and rooms where guests can stay.
Visiting the Chattanooga Choo Choo makes for an exciting and educational experience. Families can enjoy dining in vintage train settings while learning more about the history of rail travel in the United States. This unique destination is a fantastic complement to your Ruby Falls adventure, broadening your exploration of local heritage.
Address: 1400 Market St, Chattanooga, TN 37402
Final Thoughts
Ruby Falls represents one of the most fascinating natural environments in the United States, filled with indoor wonders and outdoor adventures. The combination of history, geology, and natural beauty embodies the spirit of exploration at this iconic destination. From the mesmerizing underground waterfall to educational tours led by enthusiastic guides, every moment spent at Ruby Falls is bound to impress visitors of any age.
Planning your trip with considerations for timing, weather, and surrounding attractions will only enhance your experience. The nearby sites offer additional enriching experiences that can help round out your day and bring you even deeper into the enchanting wonders of Lookout Mountain. Whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, Ruby Falls remains an exceptional destination that continues to mesmerize and capture the hearts of everyone who walks through its magical walls. For anyone considering a visit to Tennessee, this beautiful attraction is not to be missed.
For more exciting travels and destinations to explore, consider reading about places to visit in Tennessee or perhaps embark on a scenic road trip, as detailed in scenic weekend road trips. There’s a world of adventure just waiting for you!