Chattanooga is on the cusp of change - and it won't be long until we see the signs.
The leaves will transform from their summery green to the mesmerizing shades of fall. Then, the trees will begin to shed their colorful burdens in the cooling breeze. And all over the Scenic City, hikers will rush out to steal a glimpse of the passing beauty.
To help you find the best trails for your autumn-into-winter adventures, Chattanooga City Forester Gene Hyde and Chattanooga Hiking Club Member John Rowland, who have studied the nearby trails during their proudest season, offer up advice on some of the prettiest paths to take.
MID-AUTUMN: Late October to mid-November
The temperature lowers to a refreshing cool, and the leaves explode with color. This is a great time to hit the trails if you're looking for hillsides painted with vibrant reds, yellows, golds and purples.
Cumberland Trail: Though this 300-mile trail is still under development, hikers can still witness the full extent of its beauty when hiking from Signal Point to Edward's Point. The trail's dramatic overlooks treat visitors to stunning views of the Tennessee River Valley, Middle Creek Valley and more, all burning with the bright colors of fall.
Stringer's Ridge Park: If you haven't visited this 92-acre urban wilderness in autumn, you're missing out. The observation deck along the Cherokee Trail offers a phenomenal view of downtown Chattanooga - one that becomes even more breathtaking when fall frames the city with trees flaunting their fiery-orange leaves.
LATE AUTUMN: Mid-November to late December
Crisp leaves cover the ground and most deciduous trees are bare. This is the best time to visit trails along creeks and rivers to get a better view of the waterways obscured by vegetation throughout the rest of the year.
South Chickamauga Creek Greenway: The paved paths and boardwalks on this greenway always provide a great view of the forested creek banks they overlook, but that view is just a little more special when the shed trees give visitors a sneak peak of the canoes and kayaks lazing on its waters.
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Hyde reminds fall-lovers that it is impossible to predict the colors of the leaves or when they will begin to change. “Sometimes we have colorful falls and sometimes not so much,” the forester says. “Sometimes fall comes early and sometimes late. Around here you just never know.”
Tennessee Riverwalk: The view from the greenway not enough? Double your dose of late autumn beauty by walking the new 190-foot bridge that connects the South Chickamauga Creek Greenway to this 13-mile riverside path, which also offers gorgeous views of the water by moonlight.
WINTER: Late December to late February
The leaves have disappeared, the trees slip into slumber and the air is filled with the chilly lure of mystery. This is a great time to bundle up and enjoy winter's quiet beauty. If you're lucky, your path might even be lined with a fluffy blanket of snow.
Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature Center: Nothing says "cozy" quite like the scenic views a hike through Reflection Riding's idyllic 15 miles of trail on a cold or snowy day. The destination offers peaceful walks past woods, fields and old log cabins.
Enterprise South Nature Park: When most of nature becomes cold and still, the creatures at this 2,800-acre park are still up and active. Winter visitors may spot wild turkeys, whitetail deer and coyotes as they tackle the 25 miles of trail or stop by the wildlife viewing areas along Still Hollow Loop.