Journeying into Earth’s creepy, dark caverns isn’t for everyone. The spindly, spiky rock formations and narrow, precarious passageways can make even the most seasoned adventurers feel a little claustrophobic. But if these eerie environments don’t scare you off, you can witness a world of fantastic sights within them. This fall, take your spooky season celebrations to Virginia’s Luray Caverns for an unforgettable experience.
Located a little to the west of Shenandoah National Park, the Luray Caverns take visitors underground on a one-of-a-kind sightseeing excursion. Get a taste of what wonderfully ghoulish views await you there with this photo guide to the region. It’ll have you itching to plan a visit.
Less than half an hour outside Chattanooga, Tennessee, Rock City rests upon Georgia’s Lookout Mountain. Advertised across American highways through bright red barns painted to read “See Rock City,” this destination houses a treasure trove of unforgettable landscapes. Here’s what curious tourists and prospective visitors need to know.
What is Rock City? Described as a “unique geological and botanical wonder,” Rock City blends art and nature to create a one-of-a-kind walking trail. Sightseers can traverse this 4,100-foot path through caves, gardens, rock formations, waterfalls, and more. It’s a novel way to interact with nature that appeals to tourists worldwide.
During a recent press trip with Chattanooga Tourism Co., I got to experience Rock City up close. Discover which attractions Outdoors Wire recommends with this handy Rock City visitor’s guide.
Photo by Grae Gleason
Who should visit Rock City?
Anyone who can appreciate natural beauty and art should consider visiting this destination. Rock City will especially engage outdoorsy folks and families looking for a serene yet captivating adventure.
The main route through Rock City branches into areas that best suit people who can navigate narrow walking paths, stairs, and tight squeezes. For visitors seeking a more accessible route, Rock City provides a ramp entrance that leads guests through part of the Enchanted Trail. From there, groups can reach the Lover’s Leap and Seven States Flag Court overlook.
Waterfalls, gardens, overlooks, and art
Speaking of the Lover’s Leap overlook, this part of Rock City showcases some of the spot’s most attention-grabbing sights. Lover’s Leap itself is a rock formation that sticks out from Lookout Mountain. According to Rock City’s trailside information panels, Lover’s Leap gets its name from a “Cherokee legend of two young lovers.”
As visitors approach Lover’s Leap, they’ll enjoy a lovely view of High Falls. At 140 feet tall, this waterfall is the gem of Rock City. Bring a camera to capture family pictures in front of the falls, but be prepared to wait your turn on busy summer days.
Photo by Grae Gleason
Other top attractions include Rock City’s lush gardens and scenic overlooks. Greenery thrives in the spaces between curious rock formations. During your visit, look for the little plaques labeling different vines, flowers, and trees. Labels throughout Rock City help orient visitors and inform them about the site’s most interesting landmarks.
Look out for those labels and carefully placed art installations throughout the area. Each piece builds upon Rock City’s whimsical beauty. Go on a scavenger hunt during your visit to find artworks like “Ibsen the Troll,” “Villa Aviana,” and “Perched Raptor.” Families familiar with Disney World’s “hidden Mickeys” can also keep an eye out for Rock City’s hidden gnomes.
Photo by Grae Gleason
Fairyland Caverns
Rock City is for everyone, but Fairyland Caverns and Mother Goose Village are perfect for kids (and adults with an eye for camp aesthetics). Step into this quirky and fantastical passageway to tour a collection of glow-in-the-dark fairytale scenes woven into the rocks. In 1964, sculptor Jessie Sanders completed the Mother Goose Village dioramas. Today, guests can admire their details on a trip through a dark cave.
Each display depicts either a story from European folklore or a classic nursery rhyme. Parents can challenge their kids to find their favorite figures from different fairy tales. Search for everyone from Humpty Dumpty to the Three Little Pigs.
Photo courtesy of Chattanooga Tourism Co.
Rock City seasonal events
In November and December, visitors can witness a magical holiday spectacle. For almost 30 years, the Enchanted Garden of Lights has turned Rock City into a winter wonderland. Travel through the trails to see twinkling lights, the Yule Village, and other charming holiday sights.
Rock City’s seasonal offerings don’t stop after Christmas. For St. Patrick’s Day, the destination transforms into Shamrock City. Expect Irish music, food, and beer offerings. Plus, stop by High Falls to see the water flow green. October brings Rocktoberfest, complete with fall color and German cultural celebrations. October brings Rocktoberfest, complete with fall color and German cultural celebrations. In May, nature-loving crowds will enjoy scoping out flowers during the Southern Blooms Festival. Learn about these events and more here.
Photo courtesy of Chattanooga Tourism Co.
Disclaimer: While this article was not sponsored, Outdoors Wire did visit Rock City during a press trip with Chattanooga Tourism Co. As always, Outdoors Wire operates independently, and this doesn’t influence our coverage.
Sometimes, hiking and camping aren’t enough. For some adventurers, the best way to get fully immersed in outdoor activity is by spelunking. Think of it like mountain climbing in reverse. Instead of scaling tall peaks, cave explorers travel through rocky caverns and navigate subterranean passageways. Those brave enough to go caving can marvel at unique rock formations, underground lakes, and even cave bacon. All over the world, cave systems host visitors curious to explore a hidden world. If you want a glimpse of the caving life, look no further than these six cool and creepy caves from all over the world.
