I Visited the Two Most Popular Chattanooga Caves. Here’s How They Compare.
Do a Google search for Chattanooga caves, and you’ll quickly discover that two dominate the conversation: Ruby Falls and Raccoon Mountain Caverns.
After taking both cave tours on the same trip, I don’t think the answer is as straightforward as many people make it seem.
If you’re trying to decide which cave tour deserves a spot on your Chattanooga itinerary, here’s how Ruby Falls and Raccoon Mountain compare.
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Quick Answer: Which Chattanooga Cave Should You Choose?
Choose Ruby Falls if:
Choose Raccoon Mountain if:
Ruby Falls is the easier recommendation for first-time visitors, especially if you can only do one or you’re short on time. The waterfall is a show-stopper and it’s a Chattanooga rite of passage for a reason.
But if you have time for both Chattanooga caves, do both. They’re two completely different experiences, and I’m glad I didn’t skip either.
Ruby Falls vs Raccoon Mountain at a Glance
| Category | Ruby Falls | Raccoon Mountain Caverns |
| Tour Length | 90 minutes | 45 minutes |
| Group Size | Up to 50 in peak season | 12 people max |
| Main Attraction | Underground waterfall | Cave formations |
| Photography | Good | Better |
| Educational Value | Good | Better |
| Atmosphere | Modernized cave experienced | More natural cave experience |
| Walking Difficulty | Easy | Easy |
| Best For | First-time Chattanooga visitors | Travelers who want a more intimate cave experience |
| Tickets | Check availability | Check availability |
Ruby Falls Is All About the Drama
I grew up in the 90s when “don’t go chasing waterfalls” wasn’t a suggestion, it was a rule. But I’d like to think Ruby Falls is the exception to that rule. (Sorry, TLC.)
The tour takes about 90 minutes total, with most of that time spent walking through the cave before reaching the falls. By the time your guide leads you to the waterfall, the anticipation has had plenty of time to build.
When the lights come up and the waterfall is revealed, the payoff is worth it. The entire group audibly gasped when it happened and, for a brief moment, drowned out the sound of the waterfall itself.
Ruby Falls is the star of the show, but don’t make the mistake of ignoring everything that comes before it. Cave formations like Bacon, Steak and Potatoes, and the Mirror Pool ended up being highlights in their own right.
Want more details? Read my complete Ruby Falls Cave Tour review.
Raccoon Mountain Lets the Cave Be the Star
Raccoon Mountain Caverns doesn’t have a waterfall. But it more than makes up for it with beautiful formations, rainbow lighting, and a Salamander Saloon. (Seriously, it looks like that cantina scene from Star Wars, but for tiny cave lizards.)
The Crystal Palace Tour maxes out at 12 people, which changes the entire dynamic. With seven people in my group, it felt less like a tourist attraction and more like a private tour.
There isn’t a dramatic reveal waiting at the end. Instead, the cave itself is the attraction, with formations around nearly every corner and plenty of opportunities to stop and appreciate them without feeling rushed.
Want to visit? My Raccoon Mountain Caverns review covers everything you need to know before booking.
Should You Visit Both Chattanooga Caves?
As someone who visited Ruby Falls and Raccoon Mountain Caverns on the same trip, yes. And I’d recommend it if you can make it work.
Comparing the two tours is like comparing apples and oranges. The only thing they really have in common is being underground; that’s it.
Ruby Falls is built around one dramatic moment while Raccoon Mountain is built around the cave itself. Doing both gives you a better appreciation for what Chattanooga’s caves have to offer. And with each taking less than 2 hours, you won’t feel like you’ve been sequestered from life above ground all day.
The one thing worth noting is that Raccoon Mountain Caverns isn’t located on Lookout Mountain. Unlike Ruby Falls, Rock City, and the Incline Railway, it requires a separate drive. You can still visit both caves during the same trip, but I wouldn’t try to do all four in a single day. (My dad tried to suggest it and he was vetoed faster than you could say Ruby Falls.)
See the Best of Chattanooga From Underground
If you want an iconic Chattanooga cave experience, I’d recommend Ruby Falls. Even weeks later I watch the waterfall reveal video on my phone (high-fiving myself for pressing record early), and it’s on the top of every “Things to Do in Chattanooga” list for a reason.
But if cave formations, photography, and smaller group sizes matter more to you, Raccoon Mountain Caverns is an easy recommendation.
Either way, I don’t think you can go wrong.
Planning a Trip to Chattanooga?
There’s more to Chattanooga than caves. I’ve put together the best things to do, where to stay, and where to eat along the way.
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