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Lookout Mountain: A Tri-State Landmark

Explore scenic vistas, Civil War history, and natural wonders atop Lookout Mountain, where Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee converge.

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Rising at the northwest corner of Georgia, Lookout Mountain offers stunning views and a rich history. Straddling the borders of Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee, this mountain is known for its Civil War battle and scenic attractions like Rock City and Ruby Falls.

A brief summary to Lookout Mountain

  • Georgia, US

Local tips

  • Visit Point Park for panoramic views and to explore Civil War history.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring the attractions.
  • Check the weather forecast before visiting, as conditions on the mountain can change rapidly.
  • Purchase tickets online in advance, especially for the Incline Railway, Rock City, and Ruby Falls, to save time and ensure entry.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From downtown Chattanooga, take Broad Street south, which turns into GA-193. Follow GA-193 up Lookout Mountain. Once on the mountain, follow signs to the various attractions like Point Park, Rock City, or Ruby Falls. Parking is available at each attraction, though it can be limited during peak season [7]. Parking costs vary by location.

  • Public Transport

    CARTA (Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority) offers bus service to Lookout Mountain [21]. Check the CARTA website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. From downtown Chattanooga, take Route 15 or 1 towards Lookout Mountain [6]. The bus will drop you off at the base of the mountain; from there, you may need to take a taxi or rideshare service to reach specific attractions. A one-way bus fare is $1.75 [21].

  • Taxi/Rideshare

    Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Chattanooga and can take you to Lookout Mountain [18]. A taxi from downtown Chattanooga to Rock City, for example, would cost approximately $25-$35 [11, 18, 22]. Be aware that prices may surge during peak times. Several taxi companies operate in the area, including Yellow Cab and East Ridge Cab [11, 22, 23].

Unlock the Best of Lookout Mountain

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Discover more about Lookout Mountain

Lookout Mountain, a prominent ridge, graces the meeting point of Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance [13, 15]. The mountain's history stretches back to Native American tribes like the Cherokee and Creek, who utilized it as a hunting ground and lookout point [12, 17]. European Americans settled the area in the early 19th century [10, 12]. During the Civil War, Lookout Mountain played a pivotal role, most notably in the Battle of Lookout Mountain in November 1863 [10, 15]. Union forces successfully attacked Confederate positions, leading to the mountain's capture [10]. The battle's romanticized name, the "Battle Above the Clouds," stems from the thick fog that often blankets the mountain [15]. Today, Lookout Mountain is a popular destination, offering attractions such as Rock City, Ruby Falls, and the Incline Railway [5, 8, 9]. Rock City features unique rock formations and gardens [5, 13]. Ruby Falls is an underground waterfall located within a limestone cave [8, 12]. The Incline Railway, a historic railway, ascends the mountain, providing stunning views [8, 10]. Visitors can also explore the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, which preserves the Civil War history of the area [7, 10]. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, hang gliding, and paragliding, thanks to the mountain's varied terrain and favorable wind conditions [10, 28]. Cloudland Canyon State Park, located on the western edge of Lookout Mountain, offers canyons, waterfalls, and hiking trails [5, 16, 32].

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