Cave Explorer Feels Cold Draft From Hole in Mountain—Finds Subterrain Waterfall 26-Stories Deep

Cave Explorer Feels Cold Draft From Hole in Mountain—Finds Subterrain Waterfall 26-Stories Deep
(Courtesy of Ruby Falls); Inset: Karen Culp/Shutterstock
Michael Wing
Updated:
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A strange gust of cool air billowed from within Lookout Mountain—and led one explorer to discover a most coveted American natural treasure. Excavators felt the unexpected cool rush blow from the newly-drilled opening, and, curiosity piqued, Leo Lambert sought to track down the source of the mystery breeze.

During their 1928 Tennessee dig, Lambert embarked on a 17-hour spelunking expedition 1,120 feet deep under the mountain. There he observed a tall and majestic subterranean waterfall, which he named after his wife. This became Ruby Falls.

Michael Wing
Michael Wing
Editor and Writer
Michael Wing is a writer and editor based in Calgary, Canada, where he was born and educated in the arts. He writes mainly on culture, human interest, and trending news.
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