Ruby Falls
Tennessee
Ruby Falls is a spectacular underground waterfall located within Ruby Falls Cave on Lookout Mountain near Chattanooga, Tennessee. Measuring approximately 63 feet tall, the waterfall is situated in a vertical shaft known as a dome or pit at the end of the cave's main passage. The cave features diverse geological formations including stalactites, stalagmites, columns, drapery, and flowstone, showcasing the natural beauty formed over millions of years. The waterfall is naturally fed by rainwater percolating through the mountain, but water is artificially circulated to maintain year-round flow. Discovered in 1928 during tunneling efforts to access Lookout Mountain Cave, Ruby Falls was named by Leo Lambert after his wife Ruby. Visitors descend 260 feet by glass-front elevator into the cave and enjoy a guided walk along paved trails illuminated by electric lights. The site also offers scenic overlooks of the Cumberland Plateau and Tennessee River, along with a historic limestone castle built in 1929 for dining and relaxation. Ruby Falls combines natural wonder, geological significance, and well-developed visitor infrastructure, making it a unique and memorable attraction.
ヒント: Plan ahead and purchase timed-entry tickets online as tours often sell out quickly. The best time to visit is during spring through fall when the surrounding overlooks offer breathtaking views. Guided tours are required to visit the waterfall. Visitors can also enjoy additional activities like the seasonal High Point ZIP Adventure. Admission includes access to scenic overlooks and the historic castle dining area. Check the official website for seasonal events and special offers.
興味深い事実
- •Ruby Falls is approximately 63 feet (19 meters) tall and located deep underground within Lookout Mountain.
- •The waterfall is fed by meteoric water that naturally fluctuates seasonally, but pumps maintain its flow year-round.
- •The cave features a variety of speleothems including stalactites, stalagmites, columns, drapery, and flowstone.
- •Ruby Falls was discovered accidentally in 1928 during tunneling efforts to access a nearby cave.
- •The falls were named after the discoverer Leo Lambert's wife, Ruby.
- •Visitors descend 260 feet by elevator to reach the cave and waterfall.
- •A historic limestone castle built in 1929 is part of the visitor complex, offering dining and scenic views.
歴史
Ruby Falls Cave was discovered in 1928 during tunneling by Leo Lambert's company while searching for Lookout Mountain Cave, whose natural entrance had been closed in 1905.
The underground waterfall was named after Lambert's wife, Ruby.
By 1930, Ruby Falls Cave was opened to the public after expanding the passageways.
The adjacent Lookout Mountain Caverns were connected but later blocked off due to Ruby Falls' popularity.
In 1954, pathways were improved to enhance visitor views.
A secondary exit was added in 1975 to comply with safety regulations.
Since its discovery, Ruby Falls has developed into a major tourist attraction with modern lighting, paved trails, and elevator access.
場所ガイド
The Waterfall Dome
The vertical shaft at the end of the cave where the 63-foot Ruby Falls waterfall cascades. This dramatic natural feature is the highlight of the guided tour and showcases impressive geological formations around it.
Speleothem Formations
Throughout the cave, visitors can see a variety of cave formations such as stalactites hanging from the ceiling, stalagmites rising from the floor, columns where these meet, drapery formations resembling curtains, and flowstone.
Glass-front Elevator1929
The elevator transports visitors 260 feet down into the cave, providing a unique and scenic descent into the underground environment of Lookout Mountain.
Lookout Mountain Overlooks
Scenic viewpoints accessible with admission that offer panoramic views of the Cumberland Plateau and Tennessee River, providing a contrast to the underground experience.
Limestone Castle1929
A historic castle built in 1929 on the park grounds, serving as a dining venue and gathering place for visitors, blending history with natural surroundings.
連絡先
電話: (423) 821-2544
