Majestic Multi-colored hues of Ruby Falls, Tennessee
Located at the Lookout Mountain Caverns of Chattanooga, Tennessee, the Ruby Falls is a unique underground waterfall that has been trickling for centuries.
Lookout Mountain Caves have been used, as places of shelter during the Civil War and beyond. However, the caverns were sealed, because of a railroad constructions that would bypass these caves. Thanks to an amateur spelunker Leo Lambert, the caverns were reopened to the public, as he tunnelled through the mountainside. Lambert named the ephemeral looking falls after his wife Ruby and began advertising the attraction to nearby towns.
Ruby Falls is now fitted with electronic lights, to showcase the beautiful multi-colored hues for the public to enjoy. Like any other cave, the Lookout Mountain Caves are made of stalactites and stalagmites of various lengths, shapes and sizes.
The falls that trickle down below are breathtaking, as rays of light showcase how the water cascades from above, making it look like it’s straight out of sci-fi fantasy flick.
For those, who are planning a trip to see the falls, certain precautions need to be taken. The path to the falls is very narrow and uneven, so families with children and toddlers are advised not to bring strollers to the site. There is only one way in and one way out and there are areas with low ceilings. So, its best to be cautious and wear appropriate footwear when visiting the site.
Address:
1720 Scenic Hwy
Chattanooga, Tennessee
United States
Website
UnusualPlaces Field Notes
- Location
- Ruby Falls cave and underground waterfall, Lookout Mountain, Chattanooga, Tennessee, USA
- Coordinates
- 35.01873, -85.33929
- Access
- Enter the cave only on a guided tour with a timed ticket purchased online; walk-up tickets are not sold. The cave route has narrow passages, low ceilings and steps; strollers are not permitted. Check the operator’s accessibility guidance before booking if stairs or confined spaces are a concern.
- Admission
- Standard Cave Walk: US$29.95 adults, US$19.95 ages 4–12, free for children age 3 and under; the operator lists US$28.95 for seniors 65+ with ID. Specialty tours cost more and have separate age and schedule rules. Prices checked October 12, 2026.
- Time needed
- The guided Cave Walk allows up to 90 minutes. Ruby Falls says most guests spend 2–3 hours including its above-ground overlooks, food and shop; allow an extra 60–90 minutes if the elevator is out and the alternate entrance is used.
- Best season
- No single best season is designated. The cave is an indoor visit; rain can increase the waterfall flow, but extended heavy rain can temporarily suspend tours. Check the operator’s current notices and timed-ticket availability.
- Opening hours
- Cave Walk tours are offered daily at reserved times. Ruby Falls publishes ticket slots rather than one fixed cave schedule; book online and check the selected date’s availability. Walk-up tickets are not sold.
- Location checked
- 2026-09-24
- Facts checked
- 2026-10-11
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