There are some places that really take you by surprise, immersing you in an experience that you know you'll remember for the rest of your life. You forget where you are and are just completely in the moment. Ruby Falls in Tennessee is one of those places. Ruby Falls isn't as much an attraction, as it is an experience. Sure, Ruby Falls is the tallest and deepest underground waterfall open to the public in the United States. And the mountain overlook directly overhead allows for some of the most spectacular views of the Tennessee Valley, Cumberland Plateau, and Tennessee River - not to mention epic outdoor recreation. But Ruby Falls is so much more than numbers or bullet points. It's one of the most magical places you'll ever visit.
You might not expect an underground waterfall to be found atop a mountain, but this is not your average waterfall.
Ruby Falls was discovered by Leo Lambert, a chemist and cave enthusiast who found the underground falls somewhat accidentally. Lambert was drilling an elevator shaft into the adjacent Lookout Mountain Cave in 1928 so he could efficiently lower tourists into the grand cavern, which is the second-longest known cave in the region.
But then, Lambert happened upon something truly remarkable: a stunning cascade spilling 145 feet down a narrow shaft in the limestone that had remained untouched and inaccessible to the outside world prior to his endeavor.
Ruby Falls quickly became a favorite attraction for explorers, adventures, families - and even lovers. In 1930, the very first wedding was held in this underground wonderland.
Nearly a century later, Ruby Falls remains one of Tennessee's greatest natural wonders.
Lookout Mountain Cave is no longer open to the public, as tourists overwhelmingly preferred visiting the magnificent underground waterfall, but its history is fascinating in its own right. Unlike Ruby Falls Cave, Lookout Mountain Cave could be accessed by the outside world, and there is evidence that animals and humans alike used the cave dating back to prehistoric eras. Lookout Mountain Cave also served as a shelter for both Union and Confederate soldiers during the Civil War, many of whom carved their names into its walls.
Today, Ruby Falls invites everyone to experience its glory.
The geological formations are completely stunning and almost otherworldly. The cave surrounding Ruby Falls was formed over 200 million years ago as an underground stream fed by rainwater slowly eroded the limestone.
It’s amazing to think about everything that converged to create this living geological work of art set within a mountain.
The delicate formations we see today - including stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and drapery ribbons - are an impressive display of nature's artistry.
The most incredible part of the cavern is, of course, Ruby Falls.
Ruby Falls's Lantern Tours are perhaps the most magical way to experience the underground falls. Small groups are led through the caverns with hand-held lanterns as the only light source. Rock formations, pristine pools, and shadows dance before your eyes.
On the Lantern Tour, you’ll get to experience the cave in a unique and wonderful way.
With limited light, you'll hear the trickling waterfall first. The sound grows louder and louder, leading up to a grand reveal of Ruby Falls that will stop you in your tracks. It’s a sublime sensory experience and a moment you'll always remember.
Above this subterranean wonder, the spectacular views atop Lookout Mountain are equally as enticing.
One of the best experiences in life is that of wonder - of marveling at the wide, wonderful world. There may not be a place more marvelous - or wonderful - than Ruby Falls.
Ruby Falls is one of the most incredible natural wonders you'll ever see as you marvel at its magnitude and magnificence. You'll be awestruck by this wonderful world we live in, where such beauty is possible - but often hidden. This is the experience that is Ruby Falls.
Accessibility: Due to natural formations, narrow passages, and steps, the cavern is not wheelchair or stroller accessible; however, Ruby Falls is happy to discuss alternative arrangements for guests with other special accommodations.
Pet Friendly: Pets are not allowed in Ruby Falls Cave. There are four shaded and fenced-in kennel areas available at no charge on a first-come, first-served basis.
Parking: Parking is free; however, there is limited parking for large vehicles.
Seasonal Access: Ruby Falls is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. all year long, with the exception of Christmas Day.
Cost: Ruby Falls Cave Walk tickets are $22.95 for adults and $12.95 for ages 3-11 (children under 3 are free). Extra experiences, such as the Lantern Tour and High Point Zip Adventure, have additional charges.
Other: Inside the caverns, it's always a temperate 60 degrees, so dress accordingly!
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Learn more about Ruby Falls in Tennessee by visiting its website. And if you're planning a trip to Ruby Falls while visiting Chattanooga, you'll definitely want to consider lodging at Stone Ledge. It's an utterly charming AirBnB located on a bluff on Lookout Mountain that offers spectacular and seemingly endless valley views.
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There’s something inherently magical about waterfalls. Whether you’re reveling in the grandeur of the largest waterfall in the U.S. or simply taking in a babbling little cascade while on a hike, waterfalls are extraordinary natural wonders that really must be experienced in person. Happily, there are numerous bucket-list-worthy waterfalls across the country, so no matter which state you call home, you’re guaranteed to be close to one of these wondrous falls. Today we're taking a tour of the tallest waterfalls in America. These are immense and commanding cascades sure to leave you breathless, fully immersed in a beautiful moment of complete awe and wonder.
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For an interactive experience, we've partnered with our friends over at Roadtrippers so you can better plan your trip. Check out the map below!
At a grand 150 feet tall, Raymondskill Falls is the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania, and its three-tiered cascades are pretty much the Platonic ideal of waterfalls. The waterfall, which is only slightly shorter than Niagara Falls when each tier is added together, provides the picture-perfect setting for photographs and quiet contemplation. This is an immensely beautiful area, and quite popular too -- as such, plan to visit during the winter and early spring, so you can have this captivating nature scene all to yourself.
Niagara Falls is not only one of the best-known state parks in New York, but also in the world. The first state park designated in the United States, this natural attraction attracts some 30 million visitors each year and is a true American icon. Draining Lake Erie into Lake Ontario, the falls -- technically a set of three cascades -- are one of the most powerful on the continent, with six million cubic feet of water flowing every minute. It's a magnificent spectacle to see in person and a humbling reminder of Mother Nature's prowess.
Our Manager of Content Operations, Marisa Roman, fondly remembers visiting Niagara Falls: "I went to Niagara Falls when I was younger, and it easily became a core memory. I was so fascinated by all the stories of people attempting to go over the falls in barrels to set world records! But taking the Maid of the Mist over to feel the spray of the falls and see each waterfall from a different vantage point was truly unique."
-- and Northeast -- and Kent Falls certainly has something to do with that. In this series of incredible cascades, water rushes 250 feet down a path of smooth, glistening rocks. The tallest individual waterfall stands at an impressive 70 feet, but don't worry too much about superlatives; Kent Falls really is the sum of its parts.
With a spectacular 90-foot drop, Moxie Falls is Maine's highest and most easily accessible waterfall. It's also one of the most beautiful places in all of New England. The trek to the falls is nearly as breathtaking as the cascades themselves, traversing through verdant forests that are straight out of a fairy tale. As the greenery thins and falls come into view, you're bound to have your breath taken away by this enthralling scene in the Pine Tree State.
There is an abundance of natural beauty in Upstate New York, but Rainbow Falls is on a whole other level. Located in Watkins Glen State Park, Rainbow Falls is the tallest fall in the park -- and if you visit at just the right time of day, you might catch an enchanting rainbow, too. The park as a whole is pure fantasy; with four trails, 19 waterfalls, a lily pond, ecology path, and a 151-year-old suspension bridge, it's like something out of Lord of the Rings. The icing on the cake is these falls, the most magical pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.
Here's what Manager of Editorial Megan Shute said about her visit last year: "Most famous for its Gorge Trail, this might be one of my favorite hiking trails I've ever taken – and I lived in Hawaii for seven years! Featuring breathtaking rock formations and endless cascades – including waterfalls you can walk behind and tunnels through the rock – this hike is strenuous (or at least it was with a 30-pound toddler on my hip), but truly remarkable."
Tennessee is a state that's rife with waterfalls, from the cascades that stud the Mississippi to the cavernous expanse of the Great Smoky Mountains. The entire state is known for its natural beauty, of course, but it’s those incredible natural water features that really make their mark. Fall Creek Falls State Park is the most-visited state park in the state, and for good reason: it’s the home of the tallest waterfall in the state of Tennessee, the eponymous Fall Creek Falls. At a commanding 256 feet tall, Fall Creek Falls is not only the highest waterfall in the park, but also the eastern United States. It's a dazzling vision sure to delight even the hardest-to-please adventurer seekers.
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Tennessee resident and OnlyInYourState writer Chris Dodge loves waterfalls, especially Fall Creek Falls: "Fall Creek Falls isn’t just a pretty waterfall but an adventure beckoning you for a closer look. Take the trail to the base of the falls for a great trail that leads you down many stairs, past a cave, and through an inciting rock scramble, then arrive at the base of the falls. The mighty torrents of water falling create a refreshing mist as a just reward for the hike."
This 420-foot waterfall in South Carolina cascades gracefully down Raven Cliff Mountain and into the rolling highland hills below. The largest waterfall in The Palmetto State, Raven Cliff Falls is absolutely spectacular and wholly, wondrously unique. While the trek to this commanding cascade is admittedly a bit advanced, your efforts will be well-rewarded upon beholding the beauty that is Raven Cliff Falls.
Cumberland Falls gets all the attention in the Bluegrass State, but Yahoo Falls is equally resplendent. At 113 feet, this waterfall is the tallest in Kentucky, and it's nestled in the wondrous Daniel Boone National Forest. The Yahoo Falls Trail is located in the beautiful Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area near Whitley City in McCreary County, an area avid hikers know and love. Kentucky is a humble place of untold beauty and wonder, and Yahoo Falls is one of the state's true stars.
Located on the Minnesota/Canada border, High Falls is 120 feet of pure power that will leave you completely spellbound. The hike to access this waterfall is almost as swoon-worthy as the falls themselves, too. A well-marked trail that's perfect for all skill levels, the hike ends at a scenic overlook. Just prepare to be dazzled: there is no sight quite like the rushing waters of the High Falls as they tumble over the cliff on their way to Lake Superior.
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Our Minnesota writer and Midwest editor Trent Jonas loves High Falls: "The High Falls of the Pigeon River is the tallest waterfall in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. After the long drive, I enjoy stretching my legs on the half-mile paved walkway from the Grand Portage State Park visitor center. It’s a beautiful Northwoods hike, and the payoff is spectacular: the triple cascades of High Falls. I think spring is the best time to visit, as this is when the river’s flow makes the falls explode. But I also love them in winter, when the falls are partially frozen, and the icy mantle creates a dramatic scene."
Starved Rock State Park is home to myriad canyons and waterfalls, thanks to melting glaciers that carved sandstone canyons a long, long time ago. Every spring, these falls come to life, rushing gloriously through the gorges and delighting all who come across them. There are nearly 20 canyons in total at this state park, though not all produce waterfalls throughout the year. Some of the most popular are the French Canyon, Wildcat Canyon, and St. Louis Canyon; it's in St. Louis Canyon where you'll find the eponymous falls: an 80-foot spectacle that's quite commanding in person.
One of Michigan’s true treasures, Tahquamenon Falls is peak #PureMichigan. Tahquamenon Falls is actually two enchanting cascades, both located inside the eponymous Tahquamenon Falls State Park. One of the most visually stunning cascades in the country, the signature brown running through these falls comes from tannins absorbed from cedar and hemlock swamps. While this chemical reaction can cloud the falls in the summer, during the winter months, the tannins infuse the frozen falls with a delightful -- and unexpected -- pop of color.
Midwest editor Trent Jonas recently visited this Michigan gem and had this to say: "Located within the 50,000-plus acres of Tahquamenon Falls State Park, the eponymous upper waterfall is not Michigan’s tallest cascade, but it is the state’s largest. In fact, at 200 feet wide, Upper Tahquamenon Falls is one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River.
"The quarter-mile walk to the viewing area for the Upper Falls is an easy one, and I enjoy the wooded stroll along the paved, forested trail. I almost always hear the falls before I see them, which adds a little urgency to my stride as I approach the river. I like to start with the viewing area that’s farthest downstream to get a wider perspective of the river valley and the falls. From there, you can walk up the trail to two more overlooks, getting progressively closer to the Upper Falls. I love ending on the last overlook when I’m closest to the waterfall, can hear its roar, and feel the mist on my face. I recommend visiting in the spring when the Upper Falls are really rushing. Although they can be lost in the drama of the Upper Falls, don’t forget the Lower Falls, a series of five smaller cascades around an island in the Tahquamenon River, are also located within the park, four miles downstream."
Quite possibly the most extraordinary waterfall in the country, Palouse Falls looks like something out of a fantasy. This waterfall is really a package deal; located in Palouse Falls State Park in southeastern Washington, the eponymous falls thunders over a chiseled, 200-foot basalt gorge, sending a spectacular stream of spray to all in its wake. It's an immensely grand scene that's worthy of the falls' title as the official state waterfall of Washington.
Mighty Multnomah Falls is a vision; a sublime sensory experience. This 611-foot-tall, roaring waterfall is in a league all its own; and while the Columbia River Gorge is home to over 90 waterfalls on the Oregon side alone, Multnomah truly is its crown jewel.
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Resident Oregonian and Engagement Editor Meg Archer lives near this stunning cascade: "I’m lucky to live just 40 minutes from Multnomah Falls and have visited many times. It truly feels like stepping into a fantasy movie, especially when you’re standing on the bridge between drops. If you’re up for a short but steep hike, I highly recommend taking the trail to the upper viewpoint - it’s just as pretty from above as it is from below!"
Shoshone Falls is Idaho's most iconic waterfall, boasting falls that are higher than Niagara's. The sight of this cascade is downright awe-inspiring, and a favorite among ardent waterfall chasers. The best place to view the falls is from the overlook in the eponymous Shoshone Falls Park during the spring; however, Shoshone Falls truly is a sublime sight any time of the year, and it's known for leaving spectators speechless.
OnlyInYourState Alabama writer Lisa Battles remembers her visits to this Idaho gem fondly: "One of my many visits to Shoshone Falls set a new standard for breathtaking because it felt like everything stopped for a few seconds. It was right after daybreak. Just when I peered down, a huge flock of birds took off from one side of the canyon. The massive waterfall and its ever-present rainbow framed the scene. Just unreal."
Yellowstone National Park is a national treasure and a waterfall chaser's playground. The national park is home to upwards of 45 glorious cascades, the tallest and most visited of which is Lower Falls. This waterfall is a vision; it cascades down from a height of 308 feet and is nearly twice as high as Niagara Falls. And Lower Falls also has something Niagara doesn't have: a scenic location at the head of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River. This prime location sets the stage for a bold and breathtaking view that's truly bucket-list-worthy.
The Hawaiian islands are home to some of the country’s tallest waterfalls, but many are only viewable on a helicopter tour. The tallest easily accessible waterfall is Akaka Falls, which towers 442 feet over the Big Island. To view the falls, visitors will enjoy a short stroll leading through a jungle of banana plants, towering bamboo groves, and lush orchids.
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Manager of Editorial Megan Shute lived in Hawaii and loves Akaka Falls: "This stunning cascade is one of the most impressive and accessible waterfalls in Hawaii. As soon as you come around the bend in the short staircase trail, you're sure to be left awe-inspired."
California is full of spectacular waterfalls (and even firefalls!), and while each is extraordinary, there’s one world-famous waterfall that’s truly on another level. Yosemite Falls isn’t just the largest waterfall in California, it's the tallest waterfall in all of North America. Yosemite is the fifth-largest waterfall in the entire world, in fact, dropping a total of 2,425 jaw-dropping feet from the top of the upper fall to the base of the lower fall. Seeing it with your own eyes is definitely an experience worth seeking out.
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OnlyInYourState Brand Director Sara Heddleston visited Yosemite in the fall of 2023: "When I visited Yosemite National Park in October, I wasn't expecting to see much flow at Yosemite Falls, since it tends to peak in early summer and slows down to a trickle by fall. Thankfully, probably due to ample snowpack available to melt that season, it was still flowing by mid-autumn! I took the short loop trail to Lower Yosemite Falls from Yosemite Village and was able to appreciate the Upper and Lower Falls without the summer crowds. It was a risk, but worth it!"
Located at Utah's Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, you'll find a hidden oasis with a duo of dazzling waterfalls: Upper Calf Creek Falls and Lower Calf Creek Falls. The latter is the larger of the two; a 126-foot waterfall that rushes into a resplendent cerulean pool. The hike to these falls is as wow-worthy as the falls themselves, so take your time and allow yourself to feel the immense beauty of Utah's treasured Grand Staircase-Escalante natural area.
OnlyInYourState Operations Manager Catherine Armstrong loves Calf Creek Falls: "Surrounded by Navajo sandstone cliffs, Calf Creek Falls is a hidden oasis in Utah’s Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. I visited on a beautiful March morning and enjoyed the three-mile trail, which features Fremont pictographs and granaries. I was happy to cool off in the swimming hole below the falls, which cascade 130 feet from the cliffs above. If you’re planning a visit, I recommend visiting off-season for a more solitary experience and hiking early in the day to avoid the heat."
Located in the arid Arizona desert, within the red, rocky walls of the Grand Canyon, you'll find a pristine little oasis with clear, azure waters and an abundant, rushing waterfall. While the Grand Canyon gets all the credit in terms of Arizona's most spectacular natural wonders, Havasu Falls is a total showstopper. Right next to Grand Canyon National Park, the falls are located at the base of Havasu Canyon on the Havasupai Indian Reservation. Havasu Falls is just under 100 feet tall and its powerful cascade spills into its iconic aquamarine waters -- caused by a series of chemical reactions -- below. It's one of the most startlingly sublime natural spectacles in the country; an experience to which pictures simply cannot do justice.
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Waterfall chasing is a particular variety of wanderlust with which we're well familiar, and after seeing some of these showstoppers in person, we guarantee you'll want to chase them all.
Not Your Average Bucket List - Podcast Episode
Our travel experts and Not Your Average Bucket List podcast hosts Sara and Marisa dig deeper into America’s most beautiful waterfalls, including some of their personal favorites. If you’re up for an audio adventure before reading below, this is your chance to get some insight from some OnlyInYourState experts. Click below!
Waterfalls are simply amazing, no matter the time of year. Yet there's something truly resplendent about a frozen waterfall. If you've never experienced this spectacle, we've scouted out one of the most magical waterfalls in the U.S. for you to enjoy this season. Bundle up, and let's go check it out!
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Minnehaha Falls is one of the most popular places in Minnesota.
Located in the Twin Cities, it is a towering 53-foot waterfall formed as Minnehaha Creek drops into the larger Mississippi River gorge just before it enters the river.
Have you seen this arctic attraction before? If so, what was your favorite part? Do you know of any other wonderful frozen waterfalls in the U.S.? We'd love to read about your experience in the comments section below!
If you’d like to explore winter hikes across Minnesota, you can find some great trails by going to the AllTrails website.
If you’re still in the mood for more Minnesota adventures, take a look at this video about the Gunflint Trail & Scenic Byway:
