The Jackson Illuminated Cascades were first displayed on May 9, 1932 in the 457 acre Cascades Park area. A variety of hues are produced by mixing 1,250 colored electric lights located under 16 levels of cascading water. The falls are 500 feet long and have 129 steps on each side leading upward 64 feet to the top. Three main pools, 30 feet by 90 feet, have six illuminated fountains located at each side. These fountains send water sprays skyward, creating misty color combinations. 2,000 gallons of water per minute are pumped from a lagoon system in the park area. The original construction cost was $98,000 in October 1931. Surrounded by trees and junipers, the recently renovated cascades provide travelers and native Jacksonians tranquility and solitude.