Did you know that Ruby Falls is America’s tallest underground waterfall accessible to the public? Plunging 145 feet through a limestone cavern deep within Lookout Mountain, this spectacular natural wonder attracts visitors from around the world. Named after the wife of its discoverer, Leo Lambert, Ruby Falls offers a unique blend of natural beauty, fascinating history, and adventure that makes it one of Tennessee’s most beloved attractions.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Ruby Falls is located on Scenic Highway atop Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Most visitors fly into Chattanooga Airport (
) and then drive approximately 15 minutes to reach the attraction. If you’re coming from nearby cities, Chattanooga is easily accessible via Interstates 24, 59, and 75.
Plan Your Ruby Falls Adventure
Ready to experience America’s tallest underground waterfall? Book your tickets in advance to secure your preferred tour time and avoid disappointment during peak seasons.
For the most convenient experience, consider renting a car (
) as public transportation options to Lookout Mountain are limited. The drive up Lookout Mountain offers scenic views of the Tennessee Valley that serve as a perfect prelude to your underground adventure.
Ruby Falls is located at 1720 South Scenic Highway, Chattanooga, TN 37409
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Ruby Falls maintains a constant temperature of around 60°F (15.5°C) year-round, making it a perfect destination regardless of outdoor weather conditions. However, the best time to visit depends on your preference for crowd levels.
Peak Season (June-August)
Summer brings the largest crowds, especially on weekends and holidays. If visiting during this time, book your tickets online in advance and arrive early in the day to avoid long wait times.
Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October)
Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for exploring the surrounding Lookout Mountain area, with fewer crowds and more available tour times. The fall foliage around Lookout Mountain creates a spectacular backdrop for your visit.
Weather Tip
While the cave maintains a constant temperature, Lookout Mountain’s weather can change quickly. Dress in layers and check the forecast before visiting the outdoor portions of the attraction, including Lookout Mountain Tower and the Blue Heron Overlook.
For the most enjoyable experience with minimal wait times, consider visiting on weekdays or during the winter months when tourism is at its lowest. The cave’s consistent temperature makes it a perfect escape from both summer heat and winter cold.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
The Legendary Ruby Falls Cave Tour
The main attraction is, of course, the guided cave tour that leads to the spectacular 145-foot underground waterfall. Your adventure begins with a descent via glass-front elevator to a depth of 260 feet below the surface. From there, a knowledgeable guide leads you through limestone passages filled with fascinating rock formations.
The tour path is paved and well-lit, making it accessible for most visitors. Along the way, you’ll see unique formations with names like “Dragon’s Foot,” “Elephant’s Foot,” and the “Bacon” formation. The grand finale is the breathtaking Ruby Falls waterfall, enhanced by a choreographed light show that highlights its natural beauty.
Lookout Mountain Tower
Included with your Ruby Falls admission, this historic stone tower offers panoramic views of the Cumberland Plateau and Tennessee River Valley. On clear days, you can see into seven states from the observation deck.
High Point ZIP Adventure
For thrill-seekers, this zipline course offers an exhilarating way to experience Lookout Mountain’s natural beauty. Soar through the treetops on ziplines ranging from 700 to 1,400 feet in length. Open seasonally with separate admission.
Blue Heron Overlook
This scenic viewing platform provides spectacular views of the Tennessee Valley. It’s the perfect spot for photographs and a peaceful moment of reflection after your underground adventure.
Experience All Ruby Falls Has to Offer
Make the most of your visit with a combo ticket that includes the cave tour, Lookout Mountain Tower, and seasonal attractions.
Practical Travel Tips for Ruby Falls
Ticket Information
Tickets for Ruby Falls range from $22.95 for children to $26.95 for adults (prices subject to change). To guarantee your preferred tour time, especially during peak season, purchase tickets online in advance. Tours depart approximately every 5-10 minutes, with the last tour starting 2 hours before closing time.
Accessibility
While Ruby Falls has made efforts to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges, it’s important to note that the cave tour involves walking approximately half a mile on paved pathways with some inclines. The cave passages have a few narrow sections and low ceilings in spots. Wheelchairs and strollers are not permitted in the cave, but a limited number of walking canes are available.
Photography Tips
Photography is permitted throughout Ruby Falls, but tripods and professional equipment require prior approval. The low light conditions in the cave can be challenging, so adjust your camera settings accordingly or use night mode on smartphones.
What to Wear
The cave maintains a constant temperature of around 60°F (15.5°C) year-round. Light layers are recommended, along with comfortable walking shoes with good traction for the sometimes damp cave floor. The cave can occasionally have water dripping from the ceiling, so water-resistant clothing isn’t a bad idea.
How long does the Ruby Falls tour take?
The guided cave tour typically lasts about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes. Plan to spend at least 2 hours at the attraction to enjoy the falls, Lookout Mountain Tower, and Blue Heron Overlook.
Essential Items to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes with good traction
- Light jacket or sweater (cave is 60°F year-round)
- Camera or smartphone for photos
- Water bottle (refill stations available)
- Printed tickets or mobile ticket confirmation
Nearby Attractions to Complete Your Lookout Mountain Experience
Rock City Gardens
Located just minutes from Ruby Falls, Rock City features massive ancient rock formations, gardens with over 400 native plant species, and the famous “See Seven States” viewpoint. Many visitors combine Ruby Falls and Rock City for a full day of Lookout Mountain exploration.
Incline Railway
Known as “America’s Most Amazing Mile,” this historic railway climbs Lookout Mountain at a breathtaking 72.7% grade. The journey offers spectacular views of Chattanooga and the surrounding valley.
Downtown Chattanooga
Just a 15-minute drive from Ruby Falls, downtown Chattanooga offers excellent dining, the Tennessee Aquarium, and the scenic Riverwalk along the Tennessee River. It’s the perfect complement to your Lookout Mountain adventures.
Make It a Weekend Getaway
With so much to see and do on Lookout Mountain and in Chattanooga, consider extending your stay to fully experience this beautiful region.
The Fascinating History of Ruby Falls
The story of Ruby Falls begins in 1928 when cave enthusiast and chemist Leo Lambert was drilling an elevator shaft to open the historic Lookout Mountain Cave as a tourist attraction. During this process, Lambert and his team discovered a previously unknown cave system with a breathtaking underground waterfall.
On his next expedition into the cave, Lambert brought his wife Ruby, and was so moved by her reaction to the waterfall’s beauty that he named it in her honor. Ruby Falls Cave opened to the public in 1930 and has been captivating visitors ever since.
In 1985, the Lookout Mountain Caverns and Cavern Castle (the visitor center built to resemble a castle) were added to the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing their cultural and historical significance.
“I would name it after you – Ruby Falls.”
Plan Your Ruby Falls Adventure Today
Ruby Falls offers a truly unique experience that combines natural wonder, adventure, and history. Whether you’re marveling at the thundering underground waterfall, taking in panoramic views from Lookout Mountain Tower, or soaring through the treetops on a zipline, Ruby Falls creates memories that last a lifetime.
With its convenient location near Chattanooga and other Lookout Mountain attractions, Ruby Falls makes for a perfect day trip or weekend getaway. The consistent cave temperature means there’s never a bad time to visit this natural wonder of Tennessee.
Ready for an Unforgettable Underground Adventure?
Book your Ruby Falls experience today and discover why this natural wonder has been captivating visitors for nearly a century.
The above is subject to change.
Check back often to TRAVEL.COM for the latest travel tips and deals.
