Ruby Falls, Tennessee: The Tallest Underground Waterfall In America
By Sarah McCosham|Published February 18, 2021
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Sarah McCosham
Author
I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books.
I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.
There are some places that really take you by surprise, immersing you in an experience that you know you’ll remember for the rest of your life. You forget where you are and are just completely in the moment. Ruby Falls in Tennessee is one of those places. Ruby Falls isn’t as much an attraction, as it is an experience. Sure, Ruby Falls is the tallest and deepest underground waterfall open to the public in the United States. And the mountain overlook directly overhead allows for some of the most spectacular views of the Tennessee Valley, Cumberland Plateau, and Tennessee River – not to mention epic outdoor recreation. But Ruby Falls is so much more than numbers or bullet points. It’s one of the most magical places you’ll ever visit.
You might not expect an underground waterfall to be found atop a mountain, but this is not your average waterfall.
Ruby Falls was discovered by Leo Lambert, a chemist and cave enthusiast who found the underground falls somewhat accidentally. Lambert was drilling an elevator shaft into the adjacent Lookout Mountain Cave in 1928 so he could efficiently lower tourists into the grand cavern, which is the second-longest known cave in the region.
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But then, Lambert happened upon something truly remarkable: a stunning cascade spilling 145 feet down a narrow shaft in the limestone that had remained untouched and inaccessible to the outside world prior to his endeavor.
Ruby Falls quickly became a favorite attraction for explorers, adventures, families - and even lovers. In 1930, the very first wedding was held in this underground wonderland.
Nearly a century later, Ruby Falls remains one of Tennessee's greatest natural wonders.
Lookout Mountain Cave is no longer open to the public, as tourists overwhelmingly preferred visiting the magnificent underground waterfall, but its history is fascinating in its own right. Unlike Ruby Falls Cave, Lookout Mountain Cave could be accessed by the outside world, and there is evidence that animals and humans alike used the cave dating back to prehistoric eras. Lookout Mountain Cave also served as a shelter for both Union and Confederate soldiers during the Civil War, many of whom carved their names into its walls.
Today, Ruby Falls invites everyone to experience its glory.
The geological formations are completely stunning and almost otherworldly. The cave surrounding Ruby Falls was formed over 200 million years ago as an underground stream fed by rainwater slowly eroded the limestone.
It’s amazing to think about everything that converged to create this living geological work of art set within a mountain.
The delicate formations we see today - including stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and drapery ribbons - are an impressive display of nature's artistry.
The most incredible part of the cavern is, of course, Ruby Falls.
Ruby Falls's Lantern Tours are perhaps the most magical way to experience the underground falls. Small groups are led through the caverns with hand-held lanterns as the only light source. Rock formations, pristine pools, and shadows dance before your eyes.
On the Lantern Tour, you’ll get to experience the cave in a unique and wonderful way.
With limited light, you'll hear the trickling waterfall first. The sound grows louder and louder, leading up to a grand reveal of Ruby Falls that will stop you in your tracks. It’s a sublime sensory experience and a moment you'll always remember.
Above this subterranean wonder, the spectacular views atop Lookout Mountain are equally as enticing.
One of the best experiences in life is that of wonder - of marveling at the wide, wonderful world. There may not be a place more marvelous - or wonderful - than Ruby Falls.
Ruby Falls is one of the most incredible natural wonders you’ll ever see as you marvel at its magnitude and magnificence. You’ll be awestruck by this wonderful world we live in, where such beauty is possible – but often hidden. This is the experience that is Ruby Falls.
Accessibility: Due to natural formations, narrow passages, and steps, the cavern is not wheelchair or stroller accessible; however, Ruby Falls is happy to discuss alternative arrangements for guests with other special accommodations.
Pet Friendly: Pets are not allowed in Ruby Falls Cave. There are four shaded and fenced-in kennel areas available at no charge on a first-come, first-served basis.
Parking: Parking is free; however, there is limited parking for large vehicles.
Seasonal Access: Ruby Falls is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. all year long, with the exception of Christmas Day.
Cost: Ruby Falls Cave Walk tickets are $22.95 for adults and $12.95 for ages 3-11 (children under 3 are free). Extra experiences, such as the Lantern Tour and High Point Zip Adventure, have additional charges.
Other: Inside the caverns, it’s always a temperate 60 degrees, so dress accordingly!
Learn more about Ruby Falls in Tennessee by visiting its website. And if you’re planning a trip to Ruby Falls while visiting Chattanooga, you’ll definitely want to consider lodging at Stone Ledge. It’s an utterly charming AirBnB located on a bluff on Lookout Mountain that offers spectacular and seemingly endless valley views.
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