Journey into the Heart of the Earth: The Story of Ruby Falls
Published Aug 24, 2023
A beautiful secret lies inside a Tennessee mountain. For nearly a century, visitors have descended underground to be astounded by Ruby Falls, the tallest and deepest cave waterfall you can see anywhere in the country.
Join us in the glass elevator for a trip 260 feet down and 95 years back in time, to learn the story of Ruby Falls. Keep reading to find out how to see this incredible cave waterfall.
A Hidden Treasure
In 1928, Leo Lambert and a team were digging away at Lookout Mountain near Chattanooga. Railroad construction years earlier had blocked the natural entrance to Lookout Mountain Cave. Lambert planned to dig a new entrance into Lookout cave and sell admission to tourists.
He and his crew accidentally unearthed a small opening, just 18 inches high, into a previously unexplored space. Lantern light revealed a vast cave with soaring chambers. Dramatic rock formations flowed like frozen cascades of stone. Roaring in the darkness were a series of spectacular waterfalls, 145 feet high.
Lambert promised to name his discovery after his wife Ruby. Soon, Ruby Falls was a magnet for tourists.
How to Visit Ruby Falls
Located near Chattanooga, the falls are about three hours from Gatlinburg and are open every day except Christmas.
Ticket sales are online only. Admission, including a guided walk to the falls on a paved path, is $29.95 for adults, $15.95 for kids ages 3 through 12 and free for kids under 3. The site has a cafe, gift shop and historic Castle built from limestone mined out of the mountain. Ruby Falls hosts special events all year, like these:
Tours
The Lantern Tour is an after-hours tour illuminated only by hand-held lanterns. The Gentle Tour is for history lovers who want an easy walking pace. Near Halloween, the Lantern Tour: Ghost Walk Edition tells spooky local legends.
Events
Bootleg Bash features bands and whiskey tastings from 27 distilleries. Valentine’s Day brings Romance at Ruby, with special surprises for couples. The Battle Below the Clouds is a BBQ competition.
Ziplining
Get your thrills ziplining and conquering a 40-foot climbing wall on Lookout Mountain.
For visitors to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Ruby Falls is off the beaten path. But this spectacular cave waterfall is worth a visit. After your trip, come home to a cozy cabin rental and talk about your day of discovery.
