Skip to main content
Friday, November 13, 2026Nov 13

3 tough hiking trails to leave your heart pounding near Chattanooga

Mark Pace/ Chattanooga Times Free Press — Alana Retseck-Coulter tries to cross a creek with her dog Rocky at Laurel Snow State Natural Area in Dayton, Tenn.
Mark Pace/ Chattanooga Times Free Press — Alana Retseck-Coulter tries to cross a creek with her dog Rocky at Laurel Snow State Natural Area in Dayton, Tenn.

You’ve powered through the winding selection of trails atop Lookout Mountain. Tempted fate on the rough but gorgeous footpaths of the Savage Gulf State Natural Area. Conquered the muddy, rock-strewn masterpiece that is Fiery Gizzard.

Yet still, you crave challenge.

If you’re looking to crank up the difficulty on your expert-level hiking regimen, or are interested in tackling a different type of challenge this spring, here are three toughies in the Chattanooga region to add to your bucket list.

LAUREL-SNOW TRAIL

35.52646, -85.02194