Underground Waterfall & Visitor Guide

What Is Ruby Falls

Ruby Falls offers a guided cave tour inside Lookout Mountain, ending at the tallest underground waterfall open to the public. It’s located near Rock City Gardens, Point Park, and the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway.
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What to Expect at Ruby Falls

Guided Cave Tour Experience

All visits to Ruby Falls take place as a guided tour. Guests ride an elevator down 1,120 ft. into the mountain, then walk through the Lookout Mountain Caverns with their tour group, following a clearly marked path toward the waterfall.

• Tours typically last around 1–1.5 hours
• The cave maintains a consistent cool temperature
• Pathways include uneven surfaces and stairs
• Smaller groups may be scheduled during select tours

The journey highlights the natural wonders of the mountain and offers insight into geology, hydrology, and the role of caves throughout history.
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The Waterfall & Light Show

At the heart of the tour is the waterfall itself. Fed by mountain water flow through the Cumberland Plateau, Ruby Falls plunges dramatically inside the cavern, creating a memorable moment enhanced by sound and lighting.

The waterfall experience is a major highlight for visitors interested in sightseeing tours, geology, and the region’s natural entrance systems.
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Special Tours & Adventures

Ruby Falls offers additional experiences beyond the standard cave walk.

• Lantern Tour: A specialty tour that explores the cave by lantern light
• High Point ZIP Adventure: Outdoor ziplines and a 40-foot climbing tower set above ground
• Seasonal and special events offered throughout the year

These options allow visitors to experience Ruby Falls in new ways while enjoying views of the Cumberland Plateau from above.
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History, Culture & Natural Significance

Ruby Falls has appeared in music and travel writing and is often referenced alongside cultural figures such as Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, and Andrew Jackson when discussing Southern landmarks. The cave is recognized by the National Speleological Society for its geological significance. Ruby Falls is separate from Anna Ruby Falls in Georgia.
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Dining & Gift Shop

Dining at Lookout Mountain Castle

Located at the entrance, the historic Lookout Mountain Castle features casual dining options where visitors can relax before or after their tour. Seating areas provide scenic surroundings near the mountain.
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Ruby Falls Gift Shop

The onsite gift shop offers souvenirs, apparel, local items, and memorabilia related to Ruby Falls and Lookout Mountain. It’s a convenient stop for keepsakes before heading back to your stay.
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Accessibility & Visitor Considerations

• The cave tour involves walking, stairs, and narrow passages
• The cave itself is not wheelchair accessible
• Strollers are not permitted inside the cave
• Some above-ground areas such as Blue Heron Overlook are accessible

Visitors interested in accessibility options should review details on the official site prior to arrival.
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Location & Getting There

The site overlooks parts of the Tennessee River, Tennessee Riverwalk, and nearby ridgelines stretching toward South Carolina and North Carolina on exceptionally clear days.

Address:
1720 S. Scenic Highway
Lookout Mountain, TN

Ruby Falls is located just minutes from downtown Chattanooga, near attractions such as:

• Lookout Mountain Incline Railway
• Point Park (part of a nearby National Park area)
• Sunset Rock
• Cravens House
• Chattanooga National Cemetery

The site overlooks parts of the Tennessee River, Tennessee Riverwalk, and nearby ridgelines stretching toward South Carolina and North Carolina on exceptionally clear days.

Ruby Falls Website
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Know Before You Go

• Reservations Required: Tickets must be purchased online in advance. Most tours sell out, so book your timed entry before leaving the park. Get Tickets Here →
• Duration: Plan for 1 to 1.5 hours for the cave tour, plus extra time if you visit the Blue Heron Overlook.
• Accessibility: Due to narrow passages and stairs, the cave is not wheelchair accessible and strollers are not permitted.
• RV Parking: Limited oversized parking is available on-site. We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes early to secure a spot for your rig.
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Nearby Attractions to Pair With Ruby Falls

Many visitors combine Ruby Falls with other Best Things to do in the region:

• Rock City – Famous for Lover’s Leap, Swing-A-Long Bridge, Fairyland Caverns, Mother Goose Village, Enchanted Trail, and Cliff Terrace
• Lookout Mountain Incline Railway – A historic ride with sweeping views
• Tennessee Aquarium – Located along the river in downtown Chattanooga
• Chattanooga Market – Seasonal outdoor market
• Cloudland Canyon – Scenic hiking destination
• Lula Lake – Waterfalls and hiking trails
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Staying Near Ruby Falls

If Ruby Falls is part of a longer trip, Hawkins Pointe RV Park offers convenient access to Lookout Mountain while providing a quieter place to unwind.
Explore stay options:

• Overnight RV parking
• Executive RV sites