A Guide to Greater Chattanooga’s Best Outdoor Destinations
Whether you’re seeking a thrill on the water, a leisurely hike or anything in between, nature delivers in Greater Chattanooga. From dramatic gorges to pristine waterways, the region offers endless opportunities to explore the great outdoors. Here are the best regional parks to visit for:
In This Article
Military History
As the nation’s first and largest national military park, Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park preserves the sites of two pivotal Civil War battles. Visitors can explore historic monuments, expansive battlefields and miles of scenic trails across Lookout Mountain and Chickamauga Battlefield.
Dramatic Views and Gorges
On the Georgia side of Lookout Mountain, Cloudland Canyon State Park is home to some of the area’s most stunning geography and panoramic views. Along the popular West Rim Loop, visitors can witness thousand-foot-deep canyons, sandstone cliffs and picturesque waterfalls.
Whitewater Excursions
Nestled deep in the Cherokee National Forest is an internationally acclaimed whitewater rafting course. The Ocoee Whitewater Center in Polk County draws upward of 300,000 visitors each year, thanks to its Class I–IV rapids and more than 30 miles of trails for hikers and bikers.
Prehistoric Finds
Russell Cave National Monument in Bridgeport, Alabama, is home to one of the most complete records of prehistoric life in the Southeast. More than 10,000 years of human history were discovered here in the 1950s, helping shape our understanding of ancient cultures.
Wilderness and Solitude
Carved by the elements over thousands of years, Savage Gulf State Park in Grundy and Sequatchie counties in Tennessee features 19,000 acres of wilderness, cascading waterfalls and 56 miles of trails along the Cumberland Plateau. It’s the ideal place to immerse yourself in the solitude of the backcountry.
Waterfalls Galore
Tennessee’s most visited state park sits at the heart of the Cumberland Plateau. True to its name, Fall Creek Falls State Park claims one of the tallest waterfalls in the eastern U.S. at 256 feet tall. The park also boasts scenic hiking trails, camping spots, rock climbing and a championship golf course.
Mountain Biking
Just 15 minutes from downtown Chattanooga, Raccoon Mountain is a haven for mountain biking and trail running enthusiasts. With 30 miles of intermediate and advanced trails, experienced riders and runners will always find adventure here.
Rock Climbing
Stretching across Grundy and Marion counties in Tennessee, Fiery Gizzard State Park features some of the best hiking and rock climbing in the region. Foster Falls and Denny Cove are prime spots for climbing, offering more than 150 routes for all skill levels across a wide variety of terrain.
Swimming
Go for a swim at Big Soddy Creek Gulf, located less than 30 minutes from downtown Chattanooga. Follow the easy, peaceful 1-mile hike along the creek to the main swimming hole and enjoy the refreshing aqua-blue water. With picnic areas and additional hiking trails, it’s a great spot for a summer outing with family and friends.
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