There were a lot of people on the trail the day I went (a summer weekday morning), but it wasn’t unbearably crowded-—I was able to get most of the pictures I wanted without too many random people in them. Dogs are allowed on the trail, but I wouldn’t recommend bringing one unless it’s pretty well trained, as it’s fairly busy and the trail gets quite narrow at some points.

Although I think Rock City costs a bit more than it should to get into (currently $14.95 for an adult), it’s worth it to go at least once and see the spectacular views from the top. It really is a beautiful place, even though I usually prefer more natural areas to those that have been "enhanced" for tourists.

Hours and activities vary throughout the year, so check www.seerockcity.com for seasonal information.

This attraction is especially delightful for children. The gardens have been developed throughout a rocky area on the brow of the mountain. There are nursery rhyme scenes, a swing-along bridge, and a spectacular view of seven states. During the Christmas season, the gardens are brightly decorated and there are even some reindeer in residence.

We thought Rock City’s attractions were all marvelous; however, we did have our favorites. Our favorites were Swing Along Bridge, Fat Man’s Squeeze, and Lover’s Leap.

The Swing Along Bridge is way above the trees. It is 180 feet long. It has breathtaking scenery, but crossing it is difficult for some people like me. I had to take baby steps to get across, and I never looked down at the gorge. It does swing when other people come across it, while you are crossing or when there are wind currents.

Lover’s Leap is an interesting rock formation attraction. It is because of its panoramic view on the tip of it and its folklore. If you walk to the end of it, you will see the borders of seven states. Then, if you continue to walk on the trail, you will see the seven-states flag court (it is recognition to the seven states that were seen at Lover’s Leap). As far as the folklore goes, two feuding Indian tribes had a member from each fall in love with each other. They ran off together, but soon the young brave was captured and supposedly thrown off the tip of Lover’s Leap. Then the brave’s distraught lover threw herself over the same cliff.

The Fat Man’s Squeeze is part of the trail where you have to try to squeeze through enormous boulders to continue the trail. This may be difficult for bigger folks but most people can squeeze through. It also has a legend. The local gnomes used to have meetings there until they realized that humans could squeeze through, then they retreated deep in the woods.

The cost of an adult combo ticket (includes Ruby Falls and Rock City) is $24 and a child's (3-12) ticket combo is $12. But if you desire to see all three Lookout Mountain Attractions--Ruby Falls, Rick City and Incline Railway--an adult ticket is $33, and a child's (3-12) ticket is $16.50.

Rock City sits on top of Lookout Mountain on the Tennessee/Georgia border. It IS unique and it IS an extremely popular tourist attraction. Some people, however, may be a little disappointed. It depends on what you expect to find.

After seeing a never-ending stream of billboards touting its greatness, it's very easy to have some real high expectations.

Rock City is a walk through attraction that features unique rock formations that have been carved out of stone since the beginning of time.

It's a self-guided tour through 14 acres, so you can walk at your own pace. Some of the formations are interesting, like the 1,000 ton balanced rock and the needle's eye. Some are humorous, like Fat Man's Squeeze where you've got to suck in your tummy to get through. The swinging bridge, to me, was scary. You're suspended over this huge crevice on a rope and plank bridge that, naturally, swings every time someone moves.

I don't think it's something I would highly recommend. Again, it depends on what you're hoping to see.

One thing about Rock City that IS worth seeing, though, is the view from Lover's Leap. It's claim to fame is that you can see seven states. I don't think I could actually SEE seven states, but the overall panoramic beauty of the mountains is breathtaking.

Not a place for anyone afraid of heights.