Rock City unveiled a plan to build a gondola system up the side of Lookout Mountain that will lift visitors high above its famous “See 7 States” view.
The 93-year-old tourist attraction could begin building the gondolas as early as January 2027 if it receives approvals smoothly, Rock City Enterprises CEO Doug Chapin said Tuesday at a packed meeting of the Lookout Mountain Planning Commission.
The gondolas would provide enclosed cabins to lift visitors up the mountain from a new entry and parking area on a farm at the mountain’s base, according to the plan. The gondola system is projected to cost between $30 million and $40 million and would take around two years to construct.
Rock City Enterprises, the parent company of the Rock City Gardens tourist attraction, is seeking amendments to zoning on the mountain that prevents it from building “a chairlift, a sky lift or other mechanical rides,” Chapin said.
The Planning Commission will decide whether to recommend the amendments to the Lookout Mountain City Council, which must approve or deny them.