Ruby Falls: A Must See Natural Wonder in Chattanooga, Tennessee
Are you looking for a unique vacation destination with something for everyone? Look no further than Chattanooga, Tennessee and its breathtaking natural wonder, Ruby Falls. Located inside Lookout Mountain, Ruby Falls is one of the most popular attractions in the city. From its towering cascading waterfall to its rich history, Ruby Falls has been delighting visitors for over 85 years.
What is Ruby Falls?
Ruby Falls is a 145-foot-tall underground waterfall located 1,120 feet below the surface of Lookout Mountain. Discovered in 1928, Ruby Falls is one of the deepest commercial caves in the United States. The falls were named after the wife of Leo Lambert, the explorer who discovered the falls.
The History of Ruby Falls
The history of Ruby Falls is as fascinating as its natural beauty. In 1928, Leo Lambert and a team of cavers were exploring Lookout Mountain in search of a new cave. After drilling a hole and climbing down a ladder, they discovered a breathtaking underground waterfall. The falls were named after Leo’s wife, Ruby.
Over the next two years, Leo and his team worked to make the cave accessible to the public. In 1930, Ruby Falls opened as the first commercial cave in the United States. Today, the falls are a popular tourist destination, drawing thousands of visitors each year.
Exploring Ruby Falls
A visit to Ruby Falls is an unforgettable experience. Visitors descend 260 feet beneath the surface of Lookout Mountain and explore one of the world’s most beautiful underground waterfalls. Along the way, they’ll learn about the history of the falls and the fascinating geological features of the cave.
The tour begins with a ride in the historic Lookout Mountain Tower Elevator, which takes visitors down to the cave’s entrance. From there, visitors follow a guided path that takes them through the cave and culminates at the base of the falls. Along the way, visitors can explore the cave’s many chambers and take in its spectacular views.
After the tour, visitors can explore the Lookout Mountain Tower, which offers stunning views of the Tennessee River Valley and the Appalachian Mountains. The tower also houses the Ruby Falls Museum, which features historical artifacts and interactive exhibits about the falls.
Visiting Ruby Falls
Ruby Falls is open seven days a week from 8:30am to 8:00pm. Tickets can be purchased at the Lookout Mountain Tower or online. The cost of admission includes access to the Ruby Falls tour, the Lookout Mountain Tower, and the Ruby Falls Museum.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable vacation experience, look no further than Ruby Falls. With its towering waterfall, fascinating history, and stunning views, Ruby Falls is a must-see destination in Chattanooga, Tennessee. So what are you waiting for? It’s time to plan your visit to Ruby Falls!