Seasons On Lookout Mountain

My daughter was buzzing with excitement to help Santa and the Joystone miners. They guided us through a series of wintry wonders, including a glittering ice cave, the Northern Lights, and my personal favorite, Sugar Plum Fairy Village. My daughter, of course, was thrilled to spend one-on-one time with Santa and receive her own sparkling Joystone to take home with her. I love all of our family traditions, but I think this one might just be our new favorite.

Every year, a magical transformation sweeps the natural trails of Rock City. Each night during the holiday season, families and friends of all ages are invited to join together and experience the wonder of the Enchanted Garden of Lights at Rock City. From the original Gatehouse entrance, winter casts a cozy spell over the land, creating four unique and charming realms that capture the many joys of the season.

Choose your own path through each enchanting realm: In Yule Town, the Legends of Christmas take shape in dazzling lights. Childlike wonder and fantasy dance to life in the Magic Forest, where fairytales are real and enchantment is revealed around every corner. The beloved characters of Fairyland Caverns don their holiday best, and play out their stories with a little extra sparkle in all the new tinsel and snow.

And who could blame them? After all, along this Enchanted Trail lies the forest of Dancing Trees, a one-of-a-kind spectacle where the lights leap, prance and sway to the music that fills the air. Their realm is the playground of ice-fishing penguins and cave-dwelling polar bears magically animated in light.

North Pole Village is the star on top of the tree—quite literally! And beyond this, scores of Christmas adventures await, including the chance to visit with Santa Claus himself! All the good boys and girls can decorate gingerbread cookies with Mrs. Claus in the North Pole Lodge while parents treat themselves to some gourmet hot chocolate and take in the nightly entertainment. Each path, each realm, each stop along the way is a chance to create an unforgettable memory for the whole family.

See Rock City, and see the magic of Christmas firsthand! Crisp mornings greet the mountain. The leaves of mighty oaks and hickories blaze fiery oranges and deep reds. Autumn blooms brightly on charming Lookout Mountain, drawing people from all over the world to enjoy its breathtaking adventures. When much awaited, glimmering lights at Rock City, Ruby Falls, and the Incline Railway appear in November, you know the holidays have begun. And from this luminous point, the whole mountain shines with light, fun, and festivities for visitors of all ages. Kids can experience the magic of Christmas and adults can rediscover that childlike excitement and wonder.

At Ruby Falls Christmas Underground, a secret cavern passage to the North Pole is revealed, leading guests on a magical adventure to visit Santa.

Seasons on Lookout Mountain II

Aboveground, the Ruby Falls Castle becomes a festive winter lodge at Christmas, and the Lookout Mountain Tower offers some of the most marvelous views on the mountain—not to be rivalled, of course, by the Incline Railway. Then retire in any of the numerous lodgings nearby, like the luxurious Chanticleer Inn Bed and Breakfast.

Like a beacon on the horizon, Lookout Mountain lights up for the holidays, offering so many ways for families and friends, kids, and grown-ups alike to enjoy the warm spirit of the season. The bold colors alone shout out more passionately than any spring pastel--flaming reds, opulent oranges, vibrant yellows--not to mention the opportunity the chilly air gives you to bundle up close to someone special. Lucky for me, my husband agrees.

Since our wedding in September, we had been trying to think of something we could do to give ourselves a retreat this season, something we could both enjoy as newlyweds and that might give us a little break from the whirlwind holiday craziness. I'll admit, though, that I was surprised when he was the one who came up with the perfect idea of visiting Lookout Mountain. It can be embarrassingly easy to forget the natural wonders you have in your backyard, which is the only excuse I can muster for not thinking of making this trip immediately.

I loved Lookout Mountain trips when I was younger—playing with gnomes and fairies at Rock City, getting to adventure like a real-life spelunker in Ruby Falls, feeling the thrill when the Incline Railway started moving that totally felt like a roller coaster to me at the time. Maybe I was afraid I'd outgrown that magic, but I found out on this trip just how ridiculous a thought that was. Chattanooga isn't too far from our home in Birmingham, but far enough to make it truly feel like a getaway.

Birmingham is beautiful, to be sure, but there's something especially spectacular about the mountain foliage as you climb higher into the foothills of the Appalachian mountains. As the earth begins to rise around you, cupping you in its painted slopes, it's hard not to feel a cozy sense of nostalgia.

I immediately remembered being a kid, watching scenery blur past from the window, and couldn't help but think of the traditions my husband and I could be starting that very day. I think we both agree that this is a trip that bears repeating—doing Lookout Mountain as an adult was spectacular, and just as magical an experience as being a child there.

Everything we got to do was a ton of fun, from the breathtaking natural wonder of Ruby Falls to the magical journey of winding through Rock City. My personal favorite of the day, though, was the Incline Railway. From this incredible vantage, the majesty of the Tennessee Valley bloomed below us in full color. The hills unfurled beneath us, a magic carpet of warm hues welcoming all the visiting friends and families above. Another friendly family of four noticed our attempts at the perfect selfie we did pretty good, I must say and offered to snap a few shots for us, a favor we returned happily.

Now, I remembered the Incline Railway being cool when I was little, but this was beyond just cool. Elmo, a beautiful and charming town full of things to explore. When we found ourselves in need of some good grub, we visited the fun and funky Mojo Burrito, a hip local favorite decked out with creative art and delicious Tex-Mex fare.

With so much to do, we had to pinch ourselves to get back to the station in time for the ride back up. This time of year, the sun had already set as we rode the railway back up at the end of our journey, but the view was still breathtaking. As we watched the lights dance across the Tennessee Valley, the blue shadows of the trees embracing us as we passed, we both knew this trip had been exactly what we needed. Our first day trip as newlyweds had come to an end, but neither of us had to say much to know that we would be doing this again.

Already one of the most unique and exhilarating ways to travel Lookout Mountain, the views from the Incline Railway in the fall are something to behold. The array of gold and orange foliage witnessed as you take the Downtown Chattanooga and the surrounding mountains take on a new look, and the view leaves you with a renewed appreciation for the beauty of the area and nature itself. And the Incline Railway is the best way to experience it all while exploring Lookout Mountain and the valley below.

Start your journey by heading up Lookout Mountain on the railway where a unique Lookout Mountain adventure awaits. After soaking in the stunning fall colors on the ride up, explore the upper station before heading to Point Park, which is a short walk away. On the upper observation deck, take in the splendor of the fall foliage from the highest vantage point on Lookout Mountain. It is the perfect place to take a sweeping one-of-a-kind photo of the using the panorama feature on your smartphone.

After admiring the majestic mountains and relishing in the refreshingly cool mountain air, take time to explore the engine room and historic photo gallery to gain a new perspective on what a marvel of engineering the Incline Railway is. From the terminal, it is a short walk to historic Point Park. The park was home to a critical Civil War battle, and now markers and plaques designate the battles fought here.

Take some time to roam the park and the mountain trails, especially the Ochs Museum, which delves into the history of photography and signaling on Lookout Mountain. After a rejuvenating walk and journey back down the Incline Railway, explore historic St. Elmo at the lower station. Recharge with a meal at some of the best restaurants in the Chattanooga area, including the Grill and MoJo Burrito. Or treat yourself and the kids to some ice cream at Clumpies or a cup of joe at Plus Coffee. With everything happening on the Incline Railway this fall, it is the perfect place to relish the dramatic change of seasons that make it one of our favorite times of the year.

To discover why the Incline Railway is your gateway to Lookout Mountain, go to www. Everyone loves a good mystery. We are infatuated with uncovering the rhyme or reason for why something was done or uncovering something no one else has. Curiosity about the unknown sparks our imagination which can lead to new discoveries.

Mysteries surround us every day, and for the thousands that travel to Ruby Falls each year, they are right under their feet. Located below the caverns of Ruby Falls, Lookout Mountain Cave was put to good use by animals and people long before Ruby Falls was discovered. This ancient cave, now closed to the public, holds some mysteries that will never be solved and some that have been thoroughly researched.

One of the most curious findings in Lookout Mountain Cave are 13 square stone boxes that sit on the cave floor. They were not made by natural formations within the cave, and while there are a few theories on their origin, no definitive proof is available to tell who made them or why they did. It is a secret only the stone walls can answer. Another discovery that can be tied to human hands are the plethora of signatures carved into the cave by Union and Confederate soldiers during the Civil War.

The Battles for Chattanooga were critical to the preservation of the Union, and both sides took refuge within the cave walls. Some of the soldiers left proof behind in the form of their names. There are also many signatures with the initials C. Many varieties of wildlife have used Lookout Mountain Cave for thousands of years as a place of refuge.

What he found made the difficult journey worthwhile—jaguar skeletons. Three to be precise. One appeared to die while asleep, one was stuck in a hole, and another was in a stream bed. There were also numerous bear and jaguar tracks. Evidence of other animals that have used the cave for sanctuary has been found over the years.

A expedition unearthed bones from many different animals, including deer, grouse, fox, Hellbent Salamander, woodchuck, and even the pig-like peccary. The bones were taken to the Louisville Museum of Natural History and Science where they were properly identified. Plan a trip to make your own discoveries at Ruby Falls by going to www.

Fall is a festive time at Rock City. The air is crisp, the foliage is rich with golds and oranges, and Rocktoberfest is here! Our roots come out during this signature fall event, as we honor our founder Frieda Utermoehlen Carter and her German heritage.

Lookout Mountain Painting | History Detectives | PBS

In this 12 th annual event, Rock City transforms into a total celebration of all things German, with live German music, food and—of course—specialty beer. You can also learn the traditional polka as costumed characters don traditional German attire to help get you in the spirit of the season. Rocktoberfest is one of our favorite family-friendly events, and is a unique way to experience Rock City while enjoying the change in seasons on Lookout Mountain.

Remember to take home a special souvenir from Rocktoberfest! Collector beer steins and Rocktoberfest gear will be available to commemorate your experience. While we celebrate fall on Lookout Mountain, the season is also in full swing at Blowing Springs Farm located at the foot of the mountain. Blowing Springs Farm is the ultimate in fall family fun. The Enchanted MAiZE brings the family together as you work to weave your way through the tall stalks of corn.

There are also fun farm activities for kids including a cow train, duck races, pedal carts and a corn slingshot. You can even get close to some friendly farm animals at the Critter Coral, or tour the farm on a relaxing hay ride. Come down from the excitement on Lookout Mountain to Blowing Springs Farm, where kids under three receive free admission! The farm is open on Friday-Sunday from 10 a.

Rock City and Blowing Springs Farm are the perfect places to enjoy nature and the change of seasons, while creating memories that will last a lifetime! Fall is finally here. The deep greens of the trees gradually turn into spectacular golds and oranges, making fall the perfect time to get into nature and explore everything above the clouds. On top of the natural beauty the season brings, the attractions on Lookout Mountain enhance your mountain experience, whether you are at Rock City , Ruby Falls , or taking a ride on the Incline Railway.

Here, German music, food, and specialty beer bring Rock City to life like no other time of year.

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There will be costumed characters, and you can even learn the traditional German polka dance. Rocktoberfest is in its 12 th year of celebrating harvests and foliage, making it a fall favorite for families looking to get out and enjoy the season. Traveling up the When you get to the upper station, head to the upper observation deck for a view from the highest point on Lookout Mountain. This is a one-of-a-kind way to experience the spectacular fall colors on Lookout Mountain—all while getting the adrenaline flowing.

There is a course for everyone as well as a foot climbing tower that will bring out the adventurist in you. If you are in the mood for a more relaxing way to take in the beauty of autumn, the Lookout Mountain Tower offers breathtaking views of the color across the Tennessee Valley. While some enjoy the refreshing weather and stunning sights of fall, for others, autumn means that Halloween is almost here. Discover everything happening on Lookout Mountain this fall by going to www.

This iconic barn is the home to Blowing Springs Farm , where an adventure for the whole family awaits! The Enchanted MAiZE is a great way to get lost in pastoral wonder as you weave your way through tall stalks of corn. While the maze is the main attraction, there are a host of activities that make Blowing Springs Farm the perfect place to enjoy the crisp autumn air on a weekend or a relaxing Friday afternoon.

Kids love the games on the farm, too—duck races, pedal carts, and the corn slingshot are just a few of the farm-centric activities geared toward the littlest members of your brood. Be sure to make time to hop aboard a hayride and enjoy gorgeous mountain views! And when all that autumn action works up your appetite, the Main Street Food Building will be serving hot dogs, fried sausage and pepper sandwiches, funnel cakes, and fried Oreos!

You can also get refreshments like hot boiled peanuts, coffee, hot chocolate, Coca-Cola products and Slush Puppies onsite.

Plan Your Visit

Kids three and under receive free admission, making Blowing Springs Farm the ideal place to get the family outdoors while creating memories that will last a lifetime! To buy tickets and discover more about all of the fall offerings at Blowing Springs Farm, go to www. Another hot and humid summer is mercifully winding down, ushering in the return of refreshing fall temperatures, as well as the much-anticipated return of Saturday football.

This makes it one of the best times of the year to get outdoors to enjoy the change of seasons. With spectacular views, lush foliage, and a rich history, Lookout Mountain is the perfect place to take advantage of the cooler weather while creating an adventure all your own. Start your adventure at the lower station of the Incline Railway in historic St. Elmo, where you can get a breathtaking view of the Elmo, explore the dining options—the Grill is one of the best outdoor dining experiences in the area—or grab an ice cream at Clumpies.

Traveling up Lookout Mountain on the Incline Railway gives you a unique view of Chattanooga and the surrounding mountains. The climb gets steep and the car is steady, a testament to the engineering marvel that the railway is. There are two observation decks at the upper station. The upper deck is the perfect place to use the panoramic option on your camera phone, giving you an image that you will want to share with friends and family. On the lower deck, you can get a feel for just how steep the incline is by peeking over the rail and watching the Incline Railway travel back down Lookout Mountain.

After marveling at the views, take a tour of the engine room to get an up-close look at the machinery that makes the railway work. Here you can see how the railway has changed over the years through some remarkable images that are certain to give you a greater appreciation for the tedious work involved in making the railway a reality. A fall trip also means more time to explore the upper station with fewer crowds and relishing the outdoors on Lookout Mountain without the heat and crowds of summer! Another summer is in the books. And while it has been a season full of fun and excitement, now is the time to take advantage of the kids being back in school.

The downside of summer vacation is that everyone else is on vacation too, which means long lines and densely populated attractions. So, a trip outside of the busy summer season lets you and the family enjoy your trip to Lookout Mountain devoid of crowds and lengthy lines, whether at Rock City , Ruby Falls , or on the Incline Railway! Pose for an extra photo or stand along the railing a little longer without the worry of making room for someone else.

Go through the Enchanted Trail for a second time and take another walk across the Swing-a-Long Bridge; it is a wonderful way to relax and catch something you may not have noticed the first time around. At Ruby Falls, a shorter wait time gets you to the falls as quickly as possible! There is also more time with your knowledgeable tour guide, a veritable wealth of information about the story behind Ruby Falls and the Lookout Mountain Cave. After the summer rush has subsided, you can spend plenty of time exploring historic St.

Plan your Lookout Mountain adventure on www. A mysterious burst of cool air prompted one of the greatest natural discoveries in the 20 th century. The unexpected rush of air was felt by excavators feet below ground, coming from a newly drilled opening in a section of stone as they tediously carved out an elevator shaft to the Lookout Mountain Cave.

Eager to discover and explore the source of the cool air, Leo Lambert set off through a small opening, on what would become a hour caving excursion. On his expedition, Lambert discovered a majestic waterfall that had been hidden deep within Lookout Mountain. While the falls were once a great hidden secret of Lookout Mountain, there are still a few other mysteries floating around under the surface.

On this visit, he visited the Lookout Mountain Cave and left his mark. Using something sharp, possibly his sword, President Jackson is said to have carved his named and the date, , into the wall of the cave below the path to Ruby Falls. The trouble with legends and lore is that they can become embellished over time. It remains unknown if the signature was carved by Jackson himself, another man with the same name or perhaps by someone pulling a prank on cave explorers of a bygone era. The answer is a mystery that is forever buried in Lookout Mountain.

If our seventh president or the unknown carver would have etched their name into the cave today, they would be in a bit of trouble because of current strict conservation laws that prohibit defacing cave walls in any way. During the Civil War, Lookout Mountain Cave was used as a temporary hospital, and some soldiers took the opportunity to leave their mark behind. Thankfully, Ruby Falls conservation initiatives now protect the cave and its ancient formations, minimizing the effects of visitors, light levels, temperature and even air flow. Not only does Ruby Falls have stewardship programs to preserve the cave for future generations of explorers, it is also charged with protecting the water traveling through the cave from pollution as it eventually joins the water table of the Tennessee River.

To discover more about Ruby Falls, go to www. The summer is rapidly winding down. Even though these last few days of the season can be the hottest, this is still a great time to get the family out into nature to take advantage of the long summer days before fall officially begins. One of the best ways to beat the heat while making long-lasting memories is to head above the clouds to Lookout Mountain.

While the valley below and downtown Chattanooga average 83 degrees during September, Lookout Mountain averages 77 degrees during the same time, making it a perfect respite from the late-summer heat. And if you really need to cool off on a hot day, the cave at Ruby Falls maintains a refreshing degree temperature year-round. You can enjoy all three attractions with the Triple Play ticket package! Tickets remain valid for an entire year from the date of purchase, giving you plenty of time to plan your adventures to the Incline Railway, Ruby Falls and Rock City.

Just go to www. Even though the summer is winding down, the heat is still relentless. There is no better way to beat the heat during a hot summer day, and a refreshing cone or cup of ice cream is a sweet way to create memories that will last a lifetime. And the process is the same now as it was then, with each batch of delicious ice cream hand-made with the very best ingredients. Because each batch of ice cream is created in amounts of less than 10 gallons, the ice cream aficionados at Clumpies are able to ensure that every single scoop is perfectly creamy, rich and delicious—which means every scoop of your favorite flavor is excellent every time!

The Lookout Mountain dessert staple offers 18 classic flavors that everyone loves like vanilla, chocolate, cookie dough, and cookies and cream. But Clumpies also offers several unique featured flavors that change with the seasons. You can satisfy your ice cream cravings throughout Chattanooga and on Lookout Mountain.

The flagship store on Frazier Avenue in Chattanooga is more popular than ever, and locations in historic St. Elmo—next to the Incline Railway—and the seasonal store near the entrance to Point Park keeps Lookout Mountain cool in the summer heat. Clumpies is also on the go with our Clumpies Cart, which pops up across Chattanooga and Lookout Mountain! Make sure you follow the driving desserts on social media to catch where the Clumpies Cart will roll up to next! Another summer is almost in the books.

The start of a new school year is right around the corner, and soon photos of the first day of school will replace the vacation pics in your social media feeds.

Supplies have been bought and the kids are anxiously awaiting meeting their new teachers and classmates. Unfortunately, the start of school also means less family time, but there you still have the chance to create one more summer memory. While summer vacation may be coming to an end, the heat of the season is still on.

One of the best places to bring the family together to stay cool is Lookout Mountain, and the best way to explore Lookout Mountain is to travel on the Incline Railway. Known as one of the most unique ways to travel and explore Lookout Mountain, the Incline Railway gives you a remarkable view of downtown Chattanooga and the surrounding mountains.

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At the lower station, explore historic St. Elmo, a quaint downtown that features some of the Chattanooga areas best eateries, along with fantastic places to grab a coffee or an ice cream. You can even tour a micobrewy! It is also the best place to get an appreciation for the The ascent on the Incline Railway and the view of downtown Chattanooga will give the family a vision that will be remembered for a lifetime, with the city below surrounded by majestic mountains.

Once at the upper station more adventure awaits, but first, make sure you and the family check out view from the upper observation deck. Which is the highest view on Lookout Mountain! On top of the observation decks, there is much more to explore at the upper station. To see the machinery that makes the Incline Railway work, take a tour of the engine room for a behind the scenes look at this marvel of engineering. From the upper station, it is a short walk to Point Park. This is the place to create an unforgettable family adventure and discover the many aspects of Lookout Mountain.

Prior to heading into the park, check out the Point Park Visitors Center. It is just across from the park entrance, and contains a wealth of information on the history of Point Park, along with exhibits detailing the Civil War battles in Chattanooga. Upon entering the park, you notice the marvelous overlooks right away, and can see why Lookout Mountain is such a magnet for photographers. There are many historical markers and monuments to discover, including the New York Peace Memorial, which is the largest in the park. Here the family can explore the history of photography on Lookout Mountain prior to taking your own memorable family photos, or before you hit the trail to the iconic photo spot Sunset Point.

There is no shortage of history here, as Point Park is where the famous Point Hotel was built and there are numerous markers describing the Civil War battles fought here. With 10 acres of adventure, Point Park is just one of the reasons why the Incline Railway is the gateway to Lookout Mountain and the best place to get in that last family vacation before the start of another school year!

To discover more about the Incline Railway and everything to do at the upper and lower stations, go to www. Those three words that kids dread-and parents quietly anticipate-have started to pop up in your favorite stores. Lookout Mountain has been a top summer destination for decades. The mountain offers many choices for families to experience fun and adventure while reconnecting with nature.

It is the perfect place to get away and enjoy time together for the last vacation of the summer. From amazing views to scenic hikes and underground exploration, the attractions on Lookout Mountain have something that will excite everyone in the family. Planning a trip has never been easier. You can do everything from buying tickets to discovering a new adventure at Lookout Mountain Attractions online.

The possibilities for you and your family are endless on a last-minute excursion above the clouds. Travel up Lookout Mountain on the Incline Railway , the steepest passenger railway in the world. At the top, historic Point Park and numerous mountain trails await. The kids may even get a jump start on their history lessons for the upcoming year.

The Battles for Chattanooga exhibit, located just outside Point Park, gives incredible insight into the Civil War battles fought here. Next, head to the largest underground waterfall in America open to the public at Ruby Falls. Connect underground with Smart Cave, the deepest Wi-Fi network in the world, to share your photos of the spectacular waterfall discovered by Leo Lambert and named for his wife Ruby nearly years ago. Round out your trip by touring Rock City Gardens with unforgettable views of seven states and beauty on Lookout Mountain.

Rock City is a true marvel of nature with over native plant species at 1, feet above sea level, with a foot waterfall that cascades down the mountain, and the famous Swing-A-Long bridge that spans nearly feet featuring unforgettable views of the Chattanooga Valley. Enjoying the remarkable natural and historic wonders of Lookout Mountain is the perfect way to bring the family together one last time before they crack open the books-until next summer that is.

To discover everything happening on Lookout Mountain for the rest of the summer and throughout the year, go to www. Is there anything more relaxing than a scenic hike above the clouds? We know that hitting the trails soothes the soul, and the Incline Railway is your gateway to one of the most scenic hikes on Lookout Mountain as well as a unique way to immerse yourself nature.

For decades, people have used the Incline Railway to travel up Lookout Mountain for the world-class hiking and scenery. Usually, a hike starts with a drive to a parking lot, where you step right out of the car onto the trail. But the Incline Railway offers a different hiking experience. Start in historic downtown St. Elmo at the lower station, and admire the marvel of modern engineering that ascends the As you board the railcar and begin the trip up Lookout Mountain, take time to admire this one-of-a-kind view of downtown Chattanooga and the surrounding mountains.

This is just a glimpse into the experience that awaits atop Lookout Mountain. The upper observation deck is the perfect place to take advantage of the panoramic option on your camera phone, giving you an extraordinary image to share with friends. Once you have explored the park and admired the scenery from the many overlooks, your hiking adventure begins. Make sure to take a picture of it with your phone before you start your hike along one of the most popular Lookout Mountain trails.

The hike to Sunset Rock is one of the well-traveled for good reason. Lookout Mountain has always been a hot spot for photographers, and the vantage point from Sunset Rock has been the subject of photos for decades. Bluff Trail leads the way to Sunset Rock, and the hike to this scenic spot is just a little over one mile. The round trip back to Point Park will take around 1. Bluff Trail is considered one the best and most user-friendly trails around Chattanooga.

A short junction trail leads the way to the rock steps that will take you to the top of Sunset Rock. You might need to rest after traversing the steep stairs, and, luckily, the view makes the journey more than worthwhile.

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From here, you have a breathtaking vantage point of the mountains, as well as the Tennessee River and Moccasin Bend, all of which provide a glimpse into how magnificent the natural world can be. The hike back is filled with a feeling of contentment, knowing that you just witnessed one of the most remarkable views found anywhere—and it all began with a ride on the Incline Railway. To explore all there is to do at the top and bottom stations of the Incline Railway and discover your gateway to Lookout Mountain, go to www.

Since Leo Lambert first braved the darkness of the caverns leading to Ruby Falls in , millions of people have included this destination on their must-see list for summer vacation. A tour of the cave and waterfall is much different than when it first opened. Today , environmentally friendly lighting highlights the remarkable natural rock formations and softly illuminates the path which leads to magnificent Ruby Falls. Back when Leo Lambert and crew first explored the small opening that would lead to Ruby Falls, they were treated to a much different view of the cave, surrounded by complete darkness except for the small sources of light they carried.

The formations cast a different shadow under low light, thereby bringing the mysteriousness of the cave to life. These limited-sized specialty tours let you see a different face of the cave, and the familiar formations look completely different when only lit by the light of a few lanterns. A few members of the group will also get a small handheld electric lantern. These are the only light sources in the cave. Your eyes slowly adjust to the low level of light, revealing a breathtaking scene, letting you see the path to Ruby Falls like few will.

A heightened sense of adventure permeates the cave, as you make your way to the falls, which are spectacularly lit using a system of lanterns and pulleys. Lantern Tours are one of our favorite ways for guests to visually experience the cave and Ruby Falls, and the storytelling demonstrated by our knowledgeable tour guides will leave you with a deep appreciation for the history and geology behind this natural wonder. Your guide will also delve into the hidden folklore of Ruby Falls, including some phenomena that have yet to be explained. These tours only operate during select times of the year.

Currently, there are 2 tours available every Friday night through Labor Day, so there is still time to plan a nighttime adventure that will be the talk of the summer! Reservations are required, and check-in time is between 8: Space is limited, so book your adventure online today! We are in the heart of summer, and nothing livens the season like enjoying the outdoors while listening to live music.

And we know it does to you as well. Combine the sound of music filling the refreshing air over Lookout Mountain with the spectacular views from Rock City , and you create summer memories that will last a lifetime. For this reason, we bring back Summer Music Weekends year after year.

You know we are talking about bluegrass. Matt Downer, the Old Time Traveler, always gets the crowd clapping with toe-tapping traditional bluegrass, and we also have a variety of up-and-coming artists that will make your experience at Rock City a memorable one. Emerging artists the Highbeams will show off their unique brand of upbeat folk rock. But the weekend is about more than just music. It is a festival to celebrate the natural beauty of Rock City with special activities that will make it a truly remarkable weekend.

We know kids love to sing and catch bugs, and we have them covered! Our always popular Birds of Prey raptor show is back, where the Wings to Soar rescue birds put on an educational and interactive experience that will leave you in awe of these magnificent animals. Details about Summer Music Weekends can be found online at www. Come join us for fantastic music-filled weekends of fun, and make your summer rock at Rock City! And now that we are in the thick of summer vacation season, everyone riding the Incline Railway for the unbelievable scenery can also revel in a bit of respite from the summer heat at the apex of the mountain.

That means more time at the lower station to grab an ice cream at Clumpies, a farm-fresh Tex-Mex meal at Mojo Burrito, or refuel at Plus Coffee while you explore historic St. Elmo before traveling up Lookout Mountain in one of the most unique methods possible. With so much to do on Lookout Mountain, less time in line means more time exploring.

After traveling up the Bring some change for the binoculars, or even bring your own to enhance this already remarkable view. Before leaving the station, check out the engine room and historical photos to discover what an engineering marvel the Incline Railway truly is. Next, head to Point Park, which is just a short walk from the upper station. Part of the Chickamaunga-Chattanooga National Military Park system, Point Park is the perfect place to put on your walking boots and make your own discoveries. Start at the Visitors Center to find out everything about the park, and to view an outstanding painting that portrays the critical Civil War battle that was fought here, the Battle Above the Clouds.

It is also the site where the famous Point Hotel was built, as well as many iconic photo spots. Since you are saving a little time in line, stop by the Battles for Chattanooga exhibit—just a short walk on the way to Point Park from the upper station—to get a unique look at the Civil War battles fought under your feet on Lookout Mountain.

And for the geography inclined, the exhibit puts a name and new perspective on the surrounding rivers and mountains, letting you know what you are looking at as you admire the amazing Lookout Mountain views. While riding the Incline Railway is always worth the wait, a weekday trip gives you more time to explore the hidden gems that make Lookout Mountain one of the top summertime destinations year after year.

To plan your trip to Lookout Mountain on the Incline Railway, go to www. The signs of summer are everywhere. Kids are out of school and are looking forward to their next camp getaway or first adventure of the summer. Instead of making the kids wait for the weekend to take a road trip, make the summer rock with a weekday trip to Rock City on Lookout Mountain.

While we are known for special events like our Summer Music Weekends and Rocktoberfest, taking a day during the week is the perfect time to come explore our gardens and 4,foot walking trail. Exploring this natural wonder without the weekend crowds will give you a different perspective on Rock City and what a marvel it is. It is one of the most popular photo spots in America and has been since Rock City was founded in the s. Navigating the gardens is a different experience as well.

You and the kids can take a little more time on the foot swing-a-long bridge and explore Fairyland Caverns a little longer. While a weekend with us at Rock City is always exciting, full of music and activities, a weekday visit creates a more relaxed environment and lets you view the gardens in a different light. If you need an extra pick-me-up, Starbucks is right outside of the main entrance across the street, and the kids will certainly love a stop at Clumpies Homemade Ice Cream, with three locations to choose from. Plan your weekday trip to Rock City today by going to www.

We all know keeping the family cool during even the hottest days is an important part of great summer vacations, and a trip to Ruby Falls keeps everyone in the family cool while creating lasting memories. There are all kinds of discoveries to make on your way to the heart of the cave. From the stunning geological formations some might make you hungry to the wishing wells found along the path, Ruby Falls is full of amazing wonders.

Surprise your family and friends though probably not your tour guide on your trip to Ruby Falls this summer with these fun facts:. Add in a little humidity and the temperature in the cave feels like a perfect 70 degrees. While browsing the gift shop, check out the old photos showing the Cavern Castle as a dance hall with a large fireplace. If you look closely, you can still find the fireplace tucked just behind the stairs on the back wall. There are over lights in the cave pathway to illuminate your journey through the caverns to Ruby Falls—much brighter than the headlamps and lanterns that lit the way for founder Leo Lambert when he discovered the falls in !

It was a history-making event that saw one of the first female pitchers, Jackie Mitchell, pitch for the Lookouts. During the momentous baseball matchup, Ms. Mitchell famously struck out a few Yankees, including Lou Gehrig and the Babe. Today tour guides and visitors alike respect the formations, leaving them intact and protected for future generations to enjoy. The cave is estimated to be 30 million years old. Imagine all the life that has made its way through this testament to history! The excitement is palpable as you inch closer to the grand Falls and experience this natural wonder.

Summer means one thing—road trip! And one of the most popular destinations this summer is Lookout Mountain. Thousands travel up the mountain each year for the scenic views, fresh mountain air, and cooling summer winds that Lookout Mountain is known for. Lookout Mountain has always been celebrated for its signs. These iconic black and white signs have led thousands to head above the clouds to Lookout Mountain.

Today, old-school signage points the way to all the excitement on Lookout Mountain. Quaint black and white signs lead you to the next adventure, so all there is to do is roll the window down, relax, and enjoy a mountain drive. To plan your summer road trip adventure on Lookout Mountain, go to www. Looking for a weekend where you can get into nature, spend quality time with family and friends, and have a fantastic adventure? If so, Lookout Mountain has you covered as the attractions here were designed with adventure in mind.

A weekend on Lookout Mountain is packed with excitement, and whether you start at Rock City, Ruby Falls, or with a trip on the Incline Railway, you will create memories that will last a lifetime.

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Each attraction offers a unique way to experience Lookout Mountain. After checking out the highest view on the mountain at the upper observation deck and finishing your ride at the lower terminal, explore the outstanding dining and dessert options in historic St. Elmo before heading to your next adventure on Lookout Mountain. A relaxing drive up the mountain follows, where you can turn off the navigation and let the signs guide you to Ruby Falls or Rock City. If you decide Rock City is your next destination, a wonder of nature awaits.

In addition to the views and the magnificent rock formations, Rock City showcases some of the best bluegrass and folk music around during our Summer Music Weekends. Browse the expansive gift shop at Rock City where you can find the perfect souvenir to commemorate your trip. As you listen to the amazing story of Leo Lambert and how the waterfall in the cave was discovered, the magnitude of his achievements will captivate you. Walk in his footsteps on the way to the falls to behold an unparalleled underground adventure. The falls come to life in a stunning show, and the brilliant bursts of light shining through the underground waterfall present the opportunity for the photo of a lifetime.

To discover more about all the attractions on Lookout Mountain, and to plan your stay above the clouds, go to www. Music and the mountain go hand in hand. Add a spectacular view of the Southern Appalachians and you have one of the most unique venues in the country, and that is exactly why we started our Summer Music Weekends at Rock City.

Something about being on the mountain inspires good music and good times, and Rock City is known for being the best at both. Our Summer Music Weekends event brings the sounds of traditional bluegrass along with modern and folk-country music to Rock City once again this summer.

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Bluegrass was born in the Appalachian Mountains and has inspired all genres, making it the perfect backdrop for the view of seven states. Concerts fill the refreshing mountain air on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays until 7 p. Emerging and established musicians will perform at Rock City, including, Matt Downer, the Old Time Traveler—who is certain to get your hands clapping and toes tapping with the upbeat sound of traditional bluegrass music. Rising artists like the Highbeams will bring their energetic style of folk rock to the festival weekends, along with Grand Ole Opry performer and semi-finalist on The Voice , Amber Carrington.

We know that kids like to catch bugs, and their favorite summer bug to catch is fireflies or lightning bugs, if you prefer so we put together a special activity where kids can make their own glow-in-the-dark firefly jar for a summer of critter-catching fun! Dining with a view that is second-to-none makes Summer Music Weekends complete. To buy tickets and find out more about our Summer Music Weekends, go to www. The kids have been in the classroom, studying hard all year—they deserve an awesome vacation—and so do you.

It challenges and takes you out of your element, creating a unique Lookout Mountain experience. With three obstacle courses designed to accommodate different age and skill levels, ZIPStream is built to get everyone or at least those ages 6 and up involved and out enjoying nature. Not interested in an obstacle course? Encouraging a friend as they conquer the Climbing Tower—and perhaps even their fear of heights—is an experience destined to be remembered for years to come. As great as our devices are, they can rob us of some serious quality time with friends and family.

At Ruby Falls ZIPStream, you can regain some of those precious moments with loved ones while creating memories and stories to share for generations to come. Recharge and do something unforgettable amid the natural luster of Lookout Mountain. Spring is in full bloom and summer is right around the corner, making now the best time to get out and explore Lookout Mountain. Your roundtrip journey up or down Lookout Mountain on the Incline Railway creates two unique experiences.

Both allowing you and your family to extend your trip while exploring Lookout Mountain in a new way. Elmo with a trip up the Incline. There is a remarkable view, which is the highest on Lookout Mountain, from the upper observation deck at the Incline Railway top station. After admiring the view stroll down to the lower level and observe the engineering marvel of the engine room. While describing in detail the battles of this critical Civil War campaign, the display also provides more perspective on the geography of Lookout Mountain and surrounding areas, which will come in handy when you walk through history at Point Park.

Markers commemorating the Civil War battles fought on Lookout Mountain can be found throughout the park, and as you overlook Moccasin Bend and the Tennessee River-you remember the description from the Battles of Chattanooga-the historical importance of this place is felt. Lookout Mountain is one of the most popular photo spots in the country, so make sure you pose for a potential profile picture with Chattanooga in the background at one of the overlooks within Point Park or from the Incline top station Observation Deck.

Heading back to the upper station, be sure to find that perfect souvenir of the trip and get ready for the adventure that awaits at in historic St. After descending Lookout Mountain back to the lower station, we are certain the family has worked up an appetite. Afterwards, treat the kids—and yourself—to some of Clumpies' homemade ice cream, or maybe even head to Plus Coffee in historic St.

Elmo to help you recharge for the next round of Lookout Mountain adventures. After visiting with Kyle and his family it was a guys snow camping trip with three generations present , I went on a short snowmobile ride since I was solo. There was tons of powder. It had been windy and I turned around as the snow drifts became deeper and steeper. I didn't want to get stuck today without anyone around to help. I hope this is a sign of more great snow to come.

You are responsible for informing yourself of the hazards of backcountry travel and taking the necessary precautions. Loomis Adventures may not be held liable. Skip to main content. Post new comment Your name. E-mail The content of this field is kept private and will not be shown publicly. More information about text formats.