Our Green Way Forward

In November 2021, we completed the Welcome Plaza solar-powered arbor, designed to shade guests while providing sustainable energy to the ticket office. This innovative solar canopy generates approximately 16,800 kWh of renewable energy annually, which is enough to power 40 refrigerators or 3,200 cell phones for an entire year.

Birds of Prey shows, presented by John Stokes and Dale Kernahan of nonprofit Wings to Soar, is a live audience show that features rehabilitated birds, including owls, hawks, bald eagles and vultures. Additionally, Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center offers educational encounters with native wildlife, from reptiles to possums.

These programs highlight the importance of conservation, offering guests a meaningful look at the delicate balance of our local ecosystems.

Wings to Soar and Rock City’s peregrine falcon release program have partnered to rebuild endangered falcon populations, releasing 18 birds from Rock City’s Carter Cliffs since 2006.

The Green Hospitality Program encourages attractions, lodging facilities and restaurants to be aware of their impact on the environment and to take steps to reduce their carbon footprints while enhancing the overall sustainability of their operations.

The program provides guidance and resources that will greatly reduce our impact on the environment by using techniques that have been proven to reduce waste.

The Rock City horticultural staff has created a small-scale bog, which is a totally self-sustaining water garden along the trail.

As part of its sustainability efforts, Rock City Gardens actively supports local businesses, organizations, and individuals by utilizing their talents and time in unique ways. Orange Grove Recycling plays a vital role by facilitating recycling at the park. Additionally, the partnership with Lula Lake Land Trust is extending a 22-mile trail from Lookout Mountain to Cloudland Canyon, aimed at protecting the Rock Creek Watershed. Rock City Gardens also collaborates with local artisans to enhance the Enchanted Trail with art inspired by the natural beauty of Rock City and its “quieting of the spirit” effect; many of these pieces are created using recycled materials. Visitors can explore Rock City’s permanent art collection to appreciate these creative contributions.