One drive through town and you'll see why Chattanooga is called the Scenic City, but even better views await those willing to put in a little work. It's no wonder, then, that the city is filled with true go-getters. Here are some in's with that crowd as well as some solo ways to get out and experience all Chattanooga has to offer.
HikingHIKING
With over 150 miles of public hiking trails within a 15-minute drive of downtown Chattanooga, it can be hard to know where to start. Here are some top picks for seasonal treks.
Spring: Blue Blazes Trail
This 2-mile loop trail is easy enough for the whole family, and offers rewarding riverfront views and a small beach with river access. Be careful, as the trail can get boggy after periods of rain, and be sure to bring mosquito repellent. But the area is also known to attract migrating butterflies.
Summer: Big Soddy Creek Gulf
Creek access abounds along this out-and-back trail, making it the perfect place to cool off. A wide, flat path takes hikers of all skill levels on a leisurely walk that they can then choose to amp up by connecting to the Cumberland Trail. Depending on which way and how far you go, you'll come upon more perfect creekside picnic spots, a historic mining area and an Indian rockhouse.
Fall: Signal Point to Edwards Point
This 5.8-mile out-and-back trail can be challenging due to the rocky terrain, but it rewards with waterfall views, several overlooks, charming suspension bridges, and natural arches. Both Signal Point and Edwards Point are the perfect place to take in the color bursts of autumn spreading across the valley below, and the varied landscape along the trail itself is even more impressive when framed by fall foliage.
Winter: Glen Falls Trail
A short, 2-mile out-and-back trail, it can be a little difficult to find, marked by a simple pull-off on Ochs Highway, but those who do will be treated to an ethereal winterscape. Go after some rain and the temperature has dropped to view the ice-laced falls. Even if the falls are dry, there are boulders and rock formations that also impress, including the "fat man's squeeze" to get to the top of the falls.
Trail runningRUNNING
Chattanooga has a very active running community. Whether you want to pound the pavement or hit the trails, it's more fun when you've got a partner. Here are a few groups to help make running (more) fun.
Trail running
» Chattanooga Trail Runners
» Scenic City Trail Runners
Road running
» Chattanooga Choo Choo Hash House Harriers
» Chattanooga Track Club
» Fleet Feet Runners
MOUNTAIN BIKING
Another great way to experience the scenery that gives Chattanooga its nickname is from the seat of a bike. Here are some top spots for riders of all abilities, though each is no one-trick pony, offering trails of varying difficulty.
Beginner: Enterprise South Nature Park (includes a small pump track)
With the April 2018 opening of the "Atlas," this 2,800-acre park now has 16 miles of singletrack. Though Atlas is a more-advanced option, the rest of the trail system is beginner-friendly and typically described as "flowy" with a lack of many technical features. The park also packs in a growing number of hiking trails, and recently opened equestrian trails.
Intermediate: Booker T. Washington State Park
Three loops offer more than 7 miles of narrow singletrack with some demanding elevation and gorgeous water views. But be careful riding; tree roots abound and can make for challenging, dangerous features. The 353-acre park is a great destination for the whole family, who can also choose to swim, fish, hike or camp.
Advanced: Raccoon Mountain (includes a pump track)
This interconnected system of trails has been featured in national biking publications and offers one of the most highly acclaimed trail systems in the region. The nearly 30 miles of singletrack offer a variety of riding environments and varying elevation.
» SORBA Chattanooga offers maps and profiles of each along with engagement opportunities.
PaddlingPADDLING
With the Tennessee River cutting right through downtown, Chattanooga is a great place for paddlers. To help you make the most of all the put-ins, here are a few places to rent all the necessary gear, whether you prefer SUPing, kayaking or canoeing. Some even offer private instruction and special excursions to take all the guesswork out of getting on the water.
Scenic City Safari Shuttles and Outfitters offers canoe, kayak and SUP rental, as well as shuttle service. Call 423-653-4845.
L2 Outside, just off the Tennessee River in Coolidge Park. Call 423-531-7873.
River Canyon Adventure, with direct access to the Tennessee River off of Suck Creek Road. Call 423-488-8211.
Rusty's Kayaks and Paddle Boards, located at Harrison Bay State Park. Call 423-591-5526.
Rock climbingThe Southeast is a mecca for those looking to hit the cliffs, and the immediate Chattanooga area is not short on sandstone. Grab a crashpad or your cams and head out to these top-rated spots.
Bouldering: Formerly known as Little Rock City, Stone Fort is one of the three sites used for the Triple Crown of Bouldering Series, which draws climbers from across the country, so you know this boulder field has to be good. Situated next to Montlake Golf Course, climbers are required to check in and sign a waiver and pay the $3 daily access fee.
Traditional: The Tennessee Wall offers 600 routes towering over the Tennessee River Gorge. Widely considered one of the best crags around, it offers sweeping views as well as a rock face with southern exposure that makes it a truly hot place to climb nearly year-round.
Indoor: Those looking to get started in the sport or up their skills during bad weather can hit either the Tennessee Bouldering Authority or High Point Climbing Gym. The latter offers top rope routes - including one on the face of the building overlooking downtown.