Hiking in Chattanooga, TN

Since its construction in the 1930s, the Bluff Trail has been one of the most memorable hikes in the southeast.

A series of seriously awesome swimming holes make this destination an absolute must during the summer months.

Starting from the historical Cravens House, which overlooks Chattanooga from half-way up Lookout Mountain, options abound for trail runners and hikers. This loop is one of our favorites and allows hikers and runners to bag 4 classic Chattanooga trails f...

Both Little Cedar and Cedar Mountain hug the western shoreline of the Tennessee River/Nickajack Lake as the tail-end of Walden Ridge is broken up in the Tennessee River gorge and blends into the Sequatchie valley. The elevation gain and topography grant the Little Cedar Mountain Trail a dry side and a moist side; the wildlife and plants present reflect these subtle changes thus making the two loop trails a somewhat different experience as you hike within the parcel.

Located in Hiwassee Ocoee State Park, Starr Mountain is a short hike that offers stunning views of the Hiwassee River and surrounding mountains.

This moderate trail allows for views of the Tennessee River Gorge as well as rockhouses, formations, and bluffs, and abundant plant life.

This trail features abandoned mines, views of deep valleys, gorges, and high bluffs, and includes rock and wooden steps.

This 14 mile trail offers a fairly wide and straightforward path, ideal for various interests. Because the Cloudland Connector Trail (CCT) is simple, but long, it’s perfect for anyone hoping to get outside and spend a few hours doing what they love. Equestrians, mountain bikers, runners, and hikers alike will all enjoy this route. It’s perfect for beginners due to its relatively short climbs, limited screws, and straightforward directions.

An easy-to-reach swim spot hidden in the Cohutta Wilderness, Hickey Gap offers an incredible place to take a summertime dip.

The Rock Creek Gorge offers pine and hardwood covered hills, several creek crossings, and scenic bluffs and views.

This short loop has been a popular hiking destination for well over 100 years.

Laurel-Snow State Natural Area has everything an outdoor enthusiast could wish for: great hiking, trail running, backpacking, and climbing.

The hike to Julia Falls Overlook is somewhat challenging and technical, but absolutely worth the effort for the classic Cumberland Trail beauty.

The Glen Falls Trail offers a short, scenic out and back with a waterfall and rock steps to a cutout/tunnel above the pool. This is a great place for kids to explore.

Lula Lake Land Trust, just outside of downtown Chattanooga, is one of the most impressive destinations in the southeast in terms of beauty. Check out all three of the must-see locations within the Land Trust core preserve.

The Fiery Gizzard Trail in South Cumberland State Park is considered one of the nation's top 25 trails. Great for an all day hike, trail run or a weekend backpack!

From Nantahala Outdoor Center to Tellico Gap and back, you cover 16 miles with nearly 5,000 feet of elevation gain. You’re rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of the Blue Ridge Mountains when you reach the Wesser Bald fire tower.

Edward's Point provides beautiful views of the Tennessee River Gorge, Middle Creek Gorge, and Chattanooga Valley with a variety of challenging and easy trails.

Virgin Falls Pocket Wilderness is one of the most unusual waterfall hikes (four falls on a 9-mile loop) within driving distance of Chattanooga. Along the way, you'll find subterranean tributaries, a cenote that turns into a high-volume 110 foot falls, and excellent camping.

Fall Creek Falls is the perfect weekend getaway for the family and one of the best state parks in the southeast.

With multiple accessible sections, the Cumberland Trail’s southern terminus is located 9 miles from downtown Chattanooga at Signal Point. It’s a must-experience outdoor destination for hiking, trail running, backpacking, and primitive camping.

This easy trail features many wonders to inspire your kids, from blue holes (plunge pools) to mudpots, to rockhouses and mine relics.

Red Clay State Historic Area offers a great place to enjoy a pleasant afternoon hike. It's not far off the beaten path, it's not strenuous, and the whole family can learn some interesting Native American history.

Sweeping views, steep drop-offs, rocky overhangs, bluffs, waterfalls, cascades, seasonal creek crossings make this "pocket" wilderness a treat.

Magnificent views of the Tennessee River Gorge and a challenging (yet enjoyable) workout over this 12-mile out and back on the Cumberland Trail.