1907
The Growing City
Chattanooga was rapidly growing by the turn of the century. To meet the demand for expanded railway service, a new train tunnel was built through Lookout Mountain. The new tunnel blocked access to Lookout Mountain Cave; a cave well known through centuries of use, first by Native people, and later followed by visits for clandestine meetings, use as a hospital during the Civil War, and as a legendary hideout for moonshine runners and thieves.
1916
A Dream Takes Shape
Leo Lambert learned about the rich history and folklore of Lookout Mountain Cave shortly after he married his high school sweetheart, Ruby Losey, in 1916. Determined to open the cave to the public, Leo began a decade-long quest, researching methods to access the long-sealed cave.
1916
1916
1928
An Unconventional Plan Launches
Leo Lambert puts his plan in motion after securing $250,000 from investors for his fledgling Lookout Mountain Cave Company. Construction of an elevator shaft descending 420 feet through the solid limestone forming Lookout Mountain begins. The elevator will give access to Lookout Mountain Cave. Excavated limestone will be used to build what becomes known as "the most beautiful cave entrance in the world," a castle!
Progress to reach Lookout Mountain Cave is slow. Working around the clock, the crew removes 5 feet of limestone every 24 hours. Several weeks into the project and at a depth of 260-feet into the mountain, they hit a void in the rock and felt a rush of air escape through the mysterious opening.
Leo Lambert and a small crew crawl through the dark chasm, unsure what they will find. They return 17-hours later after finding flowing underground streams, geological formations, and a plunging waterfall. Leo names the waterfall Ruby Falls in honor of his wife.
1929
Grand Opening
Ruby Falls Castle, built with limestone removed during excavation for the elevator shaft, is finished in 1929 and Lookout Mountain Cave opens to the public for tours in December after a grand opening ceremony and much fanfare from local press. Ruby Falls Cave opens for tours six months later in June 1930.
December 1929
1930
December 1933
Gathering
Ruby Falls Castle quickly became a popular social gathering hub with a fashionable tearoom by day, and at night, an upscale restaurant with live orchestra accompanied dinner dances and “the largest ballroom in the city” according to newspaper descriptions. Social gatherings at the Castle are frequently highlighted newspapers for the next 20 years, making the Castle beloved by both tourists and locals.
1960
Ruby Falls Fallout Shelter
Ruby Falls Cave takes on an unusual role as a designated Civil Defense fallout shelter. Food, water, and medical supplies to sustain 720 people for several weeks were stored in the cave. The cave’s unique location made it an ideal public shelter during a tense time in US history.
1985
National Register of Historic Places
Ruby Falls Cave, the waterfall, and iconic limestone castle are listed on the National Register of Historic Places for the significant role the attraction has played in the region’s tourism development.
2009
Sustainable Tourism
Ruby Falls becomes the first attraction in the United States to earn Green Globe certification, the respected worldwide standard for sustainability.
2018
A Re-Imagined Ruby Falls
In June 2018, Ruby Falls unveiled a picturesque expansion with new venues and enhanced amenities, creating a re-imagined guest experience designed to highlight the natural beauty of Lookout Mountain and Chattanooga.
June 2018
2022
Restoration of the Historic Castle
Ruby Falls Castle built in 1929 is restored, and the Castle Café opens. The project merges the castle’s history as a social gathering place with modern comforts and 21st century sustainability practices.
2022
December 2022
2023
Celebrating 95 Years of Wonder
The 95th anniversary of the discovery of Ruby Falls kicks off a year-long celebration.
March 2024
Treetop Hideaways at Ruby Falls
Our Story Continues
When Leo Lambert discovered Ruby Falls in 1928, he had big dreams. Today, the park welcomes over half a million guests from around globe each year. Experiencing the wonder of nature continues to be as timeless and inspiring as it was in 1928. We’re passionate about our role as careful stewards of Ruby Falls for the next generation to learn from and enjoy. Never stop exploring!
Discover More
Immerse yourself in nature with breathtaking views, one-of-a-kind adventures, award-winning special events and luxury treehouse lodging.
