The Amazing Ruby Falls, 8/16/2018

As we drove in and around Lookout Mountain, we saw a lot of billboards advertising Ruby Falls. I had never heard of it so checked it out online. I was surprised to learn that Ruby Falls is the tallest and deepest underground water fall in the US. Guided tours (only) are offered to see this amazing geological feature within Lookout Mountain. 

Packages are available for a package deal to the three Lookout Mountain attractions (Rock City, the Incline Railroad, and Ruby Falls), but we purchased tickets for the 1.5 hour tour of Ruby Falls only ($19/95/adult). 

When the Lookout Mountain Cave was closed due to construction of a railroad tunnel, Leo Lambert wanted to provide access to the cave through a new opening. Drilling began in the 1920s to build an elevator shaft to access it. During the drilling a small opening (18” x 4’) was discovered. 

Lambert, and a group of fellow spelunkers, crawled through the narrow space for 17  hours and eventually heard the sound of rushing water. To their amazement, they discovered a 145’ tall waterfall in a large cavern. Lambert named it for his wife, Ruby. Public tours began in 1930. 

The cavern castle is fashioned after a 15th century Irish castle. Reclaimed limestone from the elevator shaft excavation in the 1920s was used to build it. 

Our tour guide was fantastic (Autumn); interesting and informative. The cave features many cave formations including stalactites, stalagmites, columns, drapery, flowstone, and more. Here are some of the named formations. 

Lighting was added to the cave in the 1930s to enhance the the beauty of the cave formations.

Niagara Falls

Lookout Lane                                     Ruby’s Drapery

Leo’s Passage

And then, we entered the large area where the falls can be seen plummeting down to a large pool. It is 1,120’ underground and is fed by rainwater and natural springs. A light show adds to the beauty of the falls. None of these photos do it justice!

Below are just a few more photos of some of the beautiful cave formations. 

Columns

Stalagmites                                          Stalactites

Flowstone and Capillary Tunnels

The observation deck at the castle provides great views of Chattanooga, the Tennessee River and Lookout Valley. The Zip Line attraction can be accessed behind the castle.

Because there is only one path in and out, other tour groups have to pass (sometimes at very narrow parts of the cave) making it feel too crowded.  Nonetheless, we really enjoyed seeing the amazing falls and many cave formations here.

Ruby Falls is on the Registry of National Historic Sites. For additional information about Ruby Falls and other attractions on Lookout Mountain, go to www.rubyfalls.com.