Rock city landscape rock1/18/2024 ![]() For instance, how on earth was this Sky Bridge constructed? This lovely man-made wonder takes folks over to Lover’s Leap, providing a close-up view of High Falls along the way. Traveling with my husband is always a treat because of the way he marvels at how things work and/or were built. I couldn’t help but giggle seeing that Jerry was clearly just calmly following his frantic companion. “Stop, Jerry! Jerry, stop!” she pleaded the whole way across. The woman was holding onto the rails for dear life, causing the bridge to sway, and blaming it on her partner. This couple in front of us distracted me from my own fear of heights. You can take the one pictured above to Lover’s Leap, or brave souls can take an alternate route… Laura Ray Swing-A-Long Bridgeĭaring sightseers can traverse the 180-ft long suspension bridge. Laura Ray Bridgesīeautiful stone bridges dot the property. We visited at the beginning of July when everything was quite green, but I can only imagine how beautiful it would be covered in spring blooms or fall foliage. ![]() These days, over 400 native species of plants, trees, and shrubs add texture and color to the landscape. Laura Rayįrieda planted wildflowers and other plants along the trail that she had marked with string. Its 700 acres included Rock City, where Frieda set about creating an award-winning garden. In 1924, the couple launched a new community called Fairyland, named after Frieda’s obsession with European folklore. ![]() Eventually, Garnet and Frieda Carter came to own this piece of Lookout Mountain. Like much of our country, this land was once inhabited by Native Americans. For instance, the 8-foot-tall sandstone balanced rock above has been dubbed Mushroom Rock for its shroom-like shape. Formations have apt appellations based on what they resemble. Laura Ray Ancient, Monumental, And Unique Rock FormationsĪs the name suggests, geological marvels abound at Rock City. At a couple of points called Fat Man’s Squeeze and Needle’s Eye, visitors must turn sideways to pass between the immense boulders. ![]() Mosey your way down the trail at your own pace as it meanders through the 14-acre property. Rock City’s 4,100-foot long Enchanted Trail winds its way through majestic rock formations, cool caves, and sweeping panoramic views. Upon entry, guests receive a map detailing points of interest throughout the gardens. We did get some of the icing-like fudge on our way out and spent the rest of the trip trying to ensure it didn’t melt. However, if you’re parched upon entry, skip the vending machine and take an immediate left into Fudge Kitchen to treat yourself to a freshly squeezed lemonade. Water bottles are allowed, so feel free to bring your own. Enchanted Trail entrance (Photo Credit: Laura Ray) Fresh Lemonadeįirst thing’s thirst. It also features over 400 native plant species, panoramic views, and more. Laura Rayīefore heading to Ruby Falls, one of the other big attractions, we made our way to finally see Rock City! Located six miles from downtown Chattanooga atop Lookout Mountain, Rock City is named so for its giant ancient rock formations. It was educational and offered stellar views of Moccasin Bend below. The 10-acre memorial park was our first stop atop Lookout Mountain. ![]() Train aficionados will enjoy the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, while history buffs should check out Point Park. In addition to natural beauty, Chattanooga is known for its rail history as well as being a Civil War battleground. View from Point Park (Photo Credit: Laura Ray) However, this southeastern Tennessee city makes for a fantastic day trip or weekend getaway. Situated along the Tennessee River in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, it’s easy to overlook Chattanooga as a tourist trap. Spurred by the desire to see what all the fuss was about, my husband and I planned a Smoky Mountain vacation that would also check white water rafting and Dollywood off my bucket list. When my dad recently moved to be closer to my sister in Connecticut, I worried my window of opportunity to see Rock City may be closing. I had driven past billboards urging me to “See Rock City” several times over the past decade on my journey through Chattanooga from my home in western Kentucky to where my father lived in Aiken, South Carolina. ![]()
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