A Side Trip to Visit the Amazing Ruby Falls

Sometimes you get so caught up driving to your destination that you miss the signs to stop and explore. Visit the places that thrived before the major highways were put in. We finally did that, a little side trip on our annual trip back from Iowa, a stop at the amazing Ruby Falls. And we were amazed, not just at its beauty, but at how long it took us to visit this wonderful cave. Be prepared to step into the mysterious underworld of Ruby Falls.

History of Ruby Falls

Ruby Falls, a magnificent underground waterfall situated deep within Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, Tennessee, boasts a rich history just waiting to be discovered. From its accidental discovery by Leo Lambert in 1928 to its transformation into a popular tourist attraction. The history of Ruby Falls is a love story and one man’s determination to explore the unknown deep inside a mountain.

Lookout Mountain was long used as a shelter by the Native people and a rumored hiding spot for those engaged in illegal activities. It was used as a hospital during the Civil War, and a tunnel was built through it for the railroad. Leo Lambert saw potential in the mountain and the secrets it was hiding. He wanted to open the cave for the public to view. So he began his journey and exploration of the cave.

Leo Lambert secured the backing of a group of investors and began his exploration into the cave. An elevator was installed to reach 420 feet below the surface through the limestone. The limestone would later be used to build the castle entrance to Ruby Falls.

On one of the trips into the cave, the team of explorers reached a void in the rocks and could feel air flowing past them. They crawled for 17 hours and found underground streams, rock formations, and the most incredible underground waterfall. Ruby Falls, named after Leo’s wife and high school sweetheart.

The cave welcomed its first visitors in 1930 during the Great Depression, yet it endured and prospered. The castle is now the Castle Cafe after its restoration in 2022. The park continues its stewardship of the mountain and welcomes visitors from around the globe as it enters its 95th year of operation.

Plan Your Visit

Tours can and should be booked online here. Time slots fill up fast, so be sure to plan ahead. Several tour options are available depending on your preference and schedule. My son really wanted to do the lantern cave tour, but it didn’t fall on a day would be traveling through Chattanooga. The Gentle Walking Tour was perfect for us.

The cave can be a bit chilly. Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants if that would make you more comfortable. And closed-toed shoes would be better for navigating the cave paths that at times can be slippery with dripping water.

More Information

Visit Ruby Falls for more information on planning your trip. Take the time to visit this wonder as you travel to your camping destinations near Chattanooga, Tennessee. It is so worth the time to explore such an amazing marvel of nature. Get out there and explore, and Happy Camping!