Ruby Falls & Lookout Mountain

November 29, 2007

Ruby Falls

Point Park

Ruby Falls & Lookout Mountain

Lookout Mountain Incline

On our first full day in Chattanooga, we decided to explore the most prominent natural feature of the city, Lookout Mountain. The mountain, which is actually located at the intersection of northeast Alabama, northwest Georgia and Chattanooga, Tennessee towers over the city of Chattanooga. At its summit, High Point, it is possible to see seven states on a clear day and we were fortunate to have almost perfect weather. First we went over to the nearby Chattanooga Choo Choo for quick breakfast at the hotel that has ben built around the train.

Chattanooga Choo Choo

We started at the other famous tourist attraction located on the mountain, (in addition to Rock City), Ruby Falls. Technically, Ruby Falls is located in rather than on Lookout Mountain. The 145 ft. falls are located deep inside a massive cave, Ruby Falls Cave, deep with-in the mountain. Visited by thousands of tourists each year, Ruby Falls is much like Rock City in that it is at once remarkable and kitschy, We rode the elevator down into the cave, which is spectacular despite the touristy nature and followed the guided tour that wound down to the Falls. My guess is that the owners of the Falls didn’t quite find the Falls incredible enough on their own, as they added garish lighting and piped in loud music to heighten the experience. Despite that, it was a pretty cool experience.

Ruby Falls Cave





After Ruby Falls, we headed up to the Point Park, the summit of Lookout Mountain. The mountain was the site of the first battle of Chattanooga during the Civil War and the commanding overview of the important railroad hub of Chattanooga was contested throughout the war. Point Park is park of the Chickamauga National Battlefield park, the majority of which is located in nearby Georgia.

Point Park

Our next stop was at the foot of the mountain on the northern side where the Chattanooga Nature Center and the beautiful Reflection Riding Arboretum & Botanical Garden are located. The small nature center features animals and displays of the native flora & fauna as well as a short walking trail. The much longer road through the Reflection Riding area is truly beautiful and well worth visiting. The perfect fall weather and foliage only added to the incredible drive.








Chattanooga Nature Center

Reflection Riding

Ruby Falls