Summer 2013, my family wanted to experience fresh mountain air. We drove for hours (almost lost a tire while at it) but safely arrived at Chattanooga, Tennessee. The city was calm and inviting, perfect vacation location. We explored the area by foot and bike, visiting Walnut Street Bridge, Aquarium Plaza, Ross’s Landing and we had the guts to walk on the Holmberg Glass Bridge (Image below).
Ruby Falls + Rock City Gardens State Park
That was not the end of Chattanooga, it has a secret gem- Ruby Falls. Ruby Falls is the nation’s tallest and deepest underground waterfall open to the public in the U.S. The only way to it is a trip underground through caverns. After a long day of exploring the caves, you can head to the top of their viewing tower to enjoy Tennessee views and some lunch. It’s a natural marvel! Last stop in Chattanooga was Rock City Gardens State Park which houses more than 400 native plants and fun attractions like a Fairyland Village, and you can also check out the “See 7 States” spot where you see awe-inspiring sights.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
The next day we took a drive to Gatlinburg, Tennessee. The mountains were closer and calling my name! The city was filled with life and things to do, it’s a gown-ups playground. We decided to take a tour of the Smoky Mountains, by horseback- DREAM COME TRUE! It was pretty intimidating, but my fears drifted away within the trees. We had more dare-devilish things in mind and decided to go on a zip-line adventure tour through the mountains, it was such an adrenaline rush! To end the trip, we took on more heights by going up to the top of the Gatlinburg Space Needle to enjoy the scenery one last time. If you live for outdoor adventures, Gatlinburg is the place for you!