The southern United States is full of natural beauty — mountains, caves, beaches, and stunning lakes. In East Tennessee, you can visit the Great Smoky Mountains, the famous Lost Sea, and one very special place — Ruby Falls, a huge underground waterfall inside Lookout Mountain.
Ruby Falls is not like other waterfalls. It is located 1,000 feet below the ground and is one of the few underground waterfalls that people can easily visit. It was discovered in 1928 when chemist Leo Lambert was building an elevator inside the mountain. He named the waterfall after his wife, Ruby. Tours started in 1930 and it has been a popular spot ever since.
What to Expect at Ruby Falls
Your tour begins in an elevator that takes you deep inside the mountain. You can see the rocky walls through the glass door as you go down.
A guide will then take you through the cave, showing interesting rock formations with fun names like the “Fish.” One of the most beautiful spots is the Hall of Dreams, where the ceiling is covered in shining stalactites.
When you reach the waterfall, the room is dark at first. Then the lights turn on suddenly and you see the stunning falls — a magical sight every time.
Ruby Falls also offers different types of tours, including:
✅ After-hours lantern tour
✅ Adults-only tour
✅ Geology tour
Tip: Book your tickets early because tours often sell out. Also arrive a little before time for parking and restrooms.
Other Things to Do on Lookout Mountain
Lookout Mountain has many attractions. After visiting Ruby Falls, you can:
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Enjoy views from Lookout Mountain Tower
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Eat at the Ruby Falls Castle
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Try ziplining at High Point ZIP Adventure
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Visit Rock City
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Take a ride on the Incline Railway
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Go hiking
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Try hang-gliding at Lookout Mountain Flight Park (if you’re adventurous!)
Best Time to Visit
You can visit Ruby Falls any time of year. The cave stays 60°F (about 15°C) all year, so it’s cool in summer and warm in winter. Rain doesn’t affect the visit since it’s underground.
For fewer crowds, go early in the morning or late in the evening. The holiday season is extra special with lights and decorations around the castle.
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