Ruby Falls, Lookout Mountain Travel Guide

4.6 (18794)

Journey into Lookout Mountain to discover America's tallest underground waterfall. Explore caverns, enjoy scenic views, and create lasting memories.

Descend deep within Lookout Mountain to witness Ruby Falls, a stunning 145-foot underground waterfall discovered in 1928. Explore the cavern, marvel at unique rock formations, and experience a captivating light show.

A brief summary to Ruby Falls

1720 Scenic Hwy, Chattanooga, Tennessee, 37409, US
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Monday 8 am-8 pm
Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
Thursday 8 am-8 pm
Friday 8 am-8 pm
Saturday 8 am-8 pm
Sunday 8 am-8 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Ruby Falls.

Purchase timed-entry tickets online in advance, as walk-up tickets are not available and time slots sell out quickly.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the pathways in the cave are paved but uneven in places. Heels, sandals, or backless shoes are not recommended.
The temperature inside the cave is around 60 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, so bring a light jacket.
Strollers are not permitted in the cave due to narrow passages and steps. Use front or back carriers for infants.
Arrive 30 minutes prior to your check-in time to allow time for parking and check-in.

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Explore Ruby Falls on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Ruby Falls, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

Ruby Falls is located on Lookout Mountain, just minutes from downtown Chattanooga. From downtown, follow Broad Street south, then turn left onto W 38th Street. Continue onto TN-58 S/St Elmo Avenue, then turn right onto S Scenic Highway. Ruby Falls will be on your left. Free parking is available on-site. During peak season, arrive early as parking can fill up quickly.
Public Transport

From downtown Chattanooga, the CARTA bus route 1 provides service to Ruby Falls. From Market Street, take the route 1 bus towards St. Elmo. The ride takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Check the CARTA website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and possible service changes. From the bus stop, there is a walk to the entrance of Ruby Falls. A single ride fare is $2.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Chattanooga. A ride from downtown Chattanooga to Ruby Falls typically takes 6-8 minutes and costs between $10-$15, depending on traffic and demand. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver or on the app before you begin your trip.

Discover more about Ruby Falls

Ruby Falls, nestled deep within Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, Tennessee, offers a unique and breathtaking experience. Discovered in 1928 by Leo Lambert while drilling an elevator shaft to reopen Lookout Mountain Cave, the falls were named after his wife, Ruby. The iconic attraction opened to the public in 1929 and has been captivating visitors ever since.Descend 260 feet via a glass-front elevator into the mountain's depths. Knowledgeable guides lead tours along a scenic, electrically lit path, approximately 700 yards long, to the majestic waterfall. Along the way, discover fascinating rock formations with whimsical names like the Leaning Tower and Beehives. The grand finale is the 145-foot Ruby Falls, enhanced by colored lights and music, creating a dramatic and unforgettable spectacle.Above ground, enjoy panoramic views of the Tennessee River Valley and the Cumberland Plateau from the historic Lookout Mountain Tower and Blue Heron Overlook. The Cavern Castle, built in a medieval style using limestone excavated from the elevator shaft, houses a casual cafe and gift shop. For thrill-seekers, Ruby Falls offers a High Point ZIP Adventure with ziplines and a climbing tower. Ruby Falls is a perfect escape on rainy days, as the rainfall increases the flow of the waterfall.