Hidden deep inside Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Ruby Falls is one of the most unusual natural attractions in the United States. Visitors descend by elevator into the mountain, follow a narrow cavern trail past ancient rock formations and eventually arrive at a dramatic underground waterfall illuminated against the darkness.
Whether you are planning a family trip, romantic weekend or road trip through Tennessee, Ruby Falls offers an experience that feels completely different from an ordinary sightseeing stop.
6
Read more: Ruby Falls: A Complete Guide to Chattanooga’s Underground WonderRuby Falls illuminated inside Lookout Mountain.
Ruby Falls at a Glance
| Visitor information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 1720 S. Scenic Highway, Chattanooga, TN 37409 |
| Main experience | Guided Cave Walk to the waterfall |
| Elevator descent | 260 feet |
| Walking distance | Just under one mile round trip |
| Tour duration | Approximately 70–90 minutes |
| Recommended total visit | Around 2–3 hours |
| Cave temperature | Approximately 60°F year-round |
| Tickets | Timed tickets sold online |
| Best quieter times | Weekdays, before 9 a.m. or after 6 p.m. |
These details come from the current Ruby Falls visitor information and FAQ.
What Makes Ruby Falls Special?
Ruby Falls is recognized as the tallest underground waterfall open to the public in the United States. The adventure begins with a 260-foot descent in a glass-front elevator before visitors join a guide for a walk through the cave.
Along the route, you will see limestone formations, underground streams, narrow passages and cavern rooms that range from intimate spaces to dramatic chambers. The journey ends at the waterfall, where colored lighting and music transform the cavern into a theatrical natural experience.
The standard Cave Walk is suitable for families, but it is important to understand that this is a popular attraction rather than a quiet, self-guided cave. Groups can be large, and visitors must keep pace with their guide.
The Story Behind Ruby Falls
Ruby Falls was discovered in 1928 by cave explorer Leo Lambert. While crews were excavating an elevator shaft into Lookout Mountain, they uncovered a narrow opening at a depth of approximately 260 feet.
Lambert and a small group entered the passage and spent about 17 hours exploring it. They found unusual rock formations, underground streams and a previously unknown waterfall. Lambert named the waterfall “Ruby Falls” in honor of his wife, Ruby.
The limestone Ruby Falls Castle was completed in 1929, and Ruby Falls Cave welcomed its first visitors in 1930. Today, the cave, waterfall and historic castle are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You can read more on the attraction’s official history page.
6
Historic Ruby Falls Castle on Lookout Mountain.
What to Expect on the Cave Walk
The Cave Walk is the most popular Ruby Falls experience. After riding the elevator down, a guide leads the group along a paved trail toward the waterfall.
The round-trip walk is just under one mile and normally takes 70–90 minutes. Although much of the pathway is level, visitors should expect approximately 50 stairs, gradual slopes, low lighting and several narrow passages. Some parts of the trail may also be wet.
The guide points out interesting formations and shares the story of the cave’s discovery. At the waterfall chamber, visitors have time to watch the illuminated waterfall and take photographs before returning along the same trail.
Photography is permitted as long as it does not delay the group. Opportunities to stop during the standard Cave Walk are limited.
7
Visitors explore the formations along the Ruby Falls cavern trail.
Ruby Falls Ticket Prices
As of August 2026, the standard Cave Walk prices are:
| Ticket | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult | $29.95 |
| Child ages 4–12 | $19.95 |
| Senior age 65+ | $28.95 |
| Child age 3 and younger | Free |
Ruby Falls uses timed admission, and tickets are sold online. Walk-up tickets are not available onsite, so purchasing several days in advance is strongly recommended—especially for weekends, holidays and school breaks.
Prices and availability can change. Check the official Ruby Falls ticket page before your visit.
Other Tours and Adventures
Visitors looking for something beyond the regular Cave Walk have several options.
Lantern Tour
The Friday-night Lantern Tour explores the cave using handheld lanterns. It offers a smaller group, a more relaxed pace and additional time at the waterfall. The experience lasts up to two hours and is available to visitors ages 10 and older.
Gentle Walking Tour
This specialty tour moves at a slower pace and includes a smaller number of participants. It is designed for visitors who want more time along the trail, although participants must still be able to walk and stand inside the cave.
High Point ZIP Adventure
Available seasonally from March through November, High Point ZIP Adventure includes forest ziplines and a climbing tower. This activity requires a separate ticket.
4
Specialty cave tours and outdoor adventures at Ruby Falls.
What Else Can You See?
Your visit does not have to end when the cave tour finishes. Admission also includes access to scenic areas overlooking the Cumberland Plateau and Tennessee River.
Take time to visit:
- Lookout Mountain Tower: A historic observation tower with panoramic views.
- Blue Heron Overlook: A more accessible scenic viewpoint.
- Castle Café: A casual café inside the restored limestone castle.
- Village Gift Shop: Offers minerals, geodes, souvenirs and gifts.
- Village Plaza: A pleasant outdoor space for relaxing after the tour.
Ruby Falls also offers luxury treehouse lodging for travelers who want to stay on Lookout Mountain.
Best Time to Visit Ruby Falls
The cave remains close to 60°F throughout the year, making Ruby Falls a dependable attraction in almost any season.
Weekends, school breaks and holidays are usually the busiest. Ruby Falls recommends booking before 9 a.m., after 6 p.m. or on a weekday if you want a less crowded experience.
Rain does not automatically cancel cave tours. In fact, rainfall can increase the waterfall’s flow and make it more impressive. Extended heavy rain, however, can occasionally affect operations.
What to Wear and Bring
Wear comfortable shoes with sturdy soles. The trail is paved but can be uneven and wet. Sandals, heels and backless shoes are not recommended.
A light jacket is also useful because the cave stays around 60°F, even during Chattanooga’s hot summer months.
Visitors may bring one small personal bag measuring no more than 19 × 14 × 7 inches. Larger bags must be left in a storage locker.
Important Accessibility Information
Because of the cave’s natural formations, narrow passages and groups of stairs, the underground Cave Walk is not accessible to wheelchairs or strollers. Participants must be able to walk independently, stand for up to 90 minutes and keep pace with their group.
Several above-ground areas are wheelchair accessible, including the Blue Heron Overlook, Village Plaza, Castle Café, gift shop and hospitality center. Visitors with specific needs should contact Ruby Falls before booking through its accessibility information page.
Is Ruby Falls Worth Visiting?
Yes—especially if you have never explored a cave or seen an underground waterfall. The combination of natural geology, local history and dramatic presentation makes Ruby Falls one of Chattanooga’s most memorable attractions.
The regular Cave Walk can feel busy during peak periods, so book an early, late or weekday tour if possible. Visitors who prefer smaller groups and additional time for photography should consider the Lantern, History or Gentle Walking Tour.
Ruby Falls is only minutes from downtown Chattanooga, making it easy to combine with other Lookout Mountain attractions and a weekend in the city.
Plan Your Visit
Address: 1720 S. Scenic Highway, Chattanooga, TN 37409
Telephone: 423-821-2544
Official website: RubyFalls.com
Tourism listing: Visit Chattanooga
Leave a Reply