Rock City on Lookout Mountain

Lookout Mountain, at the border between Georgia and Tennessee, was the scene of a Civil War battle but is best known today for the nature park along its rocky ridge. Begun in 1932 and made famous by more than 900 barn signs in 19 states, the park features trails through a series of rock formations and across a swinging bridge to Lookout Point. Rock City Garden is the name given to a territory at the top of Lookout Mountain in Georgia. On exceptionally clear days, points in seven states are visible from the top of the sheer cliff. This area brings together many different natural attractions that showcase the gardens’ cliff formations, waterfalls, and caverns.

Alongside the winding trail through the formations are gardens, stone bridges, narrow passages between massive rock faces, art installations, a mushroom-shaped balancing rock, and other features. The latter include the Lover’s Leap rocky cliff, High Falls, and Fairyland Caverns. Curated entertainment includes a fantastical installation of fairytale scenes and the heart-stopping Swing-a-Long suspension rope bridge. Another notable staple of the gardens is its one-of-a-kind peregrine falcon nursing and release program. The Incline Railway is a lovely way to spend a morning. Chug along the steep hill up to Lookout Mountain before heading onto Ruby Falls and Rock City. Ruby Falls is simply magnificent; a 145 ft high waterfall that lies deep underground.

There is nothing quite like this in Georgia, you’ve got to cross the state line to experience this. It’s estimated that Ruby Falls is over 30 million years old. Seasonal festivals and events include Christmas lights and a Halloween festival with a corn maze. It is said that Rock City is Chattanooga’s most famous landmark and supposedly, from the rocky ledge, you can look out and see 7 states. Therefore, it is also known as one of the best day trips from Georgia. Just hope for a clear day. Be brave and cross over the 200 ft long swing bridge, the view is worth it for sure.

Official site: www.seerockcity.com/

Address: 1400 Patten Road, Lookout Mountain, GA 30750

Phone: 706-820-2531

Google rating: 4.7/5.0