Jake Wheeler

So, You Want to Go to Snow Falls?

A step-by-step guide on how to get to Snow Falls—easily one of the most gorgeous hikes in the Chattanooga area.

Adventure Travel Photo Contest [Winners Announced]

In April 2016, RootsRated, Backwoods, and Marmot teamed-up to host an Adventure Travel Photo Contest. Here are some of our favorite shots.

Hiking to Hemlock and Cherokee Falls: North Georgia’s 2-for-1 Waterfall Special

Located in North Georgia's Cloudland Canyon, Hemlock and Cherokee Falls are two breathtaking waterfalls that can be reached on one short hike.

Hiking to the Tallest Waterfall in the Smokies: Ramsey Cascades

Hidden among a hardwood forest and spilling over a series of rocky boulders for over 100-feet, Ramsey Cascades is the tallest (and most spectacular) waterfall in the Smokies.

World's Fair Park - Road Running

Pack a picnic, bring a frisbee, call your friends and enjoy one of Knoxville's most iconic destinations in the heart of downtown.

River Canyon Adventures

Rope swings, sand bars, & pontoon boats: this is the sweet spot to paddle the Tennessee River like a local.

Sky Pond: A Classic Rocky Mountain National Park Hike

Weaving through one of the country's most popular national parks, the trail to Sky Pond offers a classic Rocky Mountain hiking experience with ever-unfolding vistas, Gatorade-blue glacial lakes, and refreshing mountain air.

The Beginning of the RootsRated Road Tour: Chattanooga

The RootsRated Road Tour kicked off in Chattanooga on May 1, 2015. Here's what to expect from this grassroots cross-country road trip.

18 Photos of the Triple Crown Bouldering Series by Carlo Nasisse

A compilation of excellent photos of the Triple Crown bouldering series, taken by professional photographer Carlo Nasisse.

50 Things to Do in 2015

Bucket lists and resolutions are fun, so we've put together a list of 50 things to do in 2015 that will definitely satisfy your quest for adventure.

The Best Places to Paddle in WNC

Here are four of the best places to paddle in Western North Carolina, according to local professional athlete Chris Gragtmas.

So You Want To Go To Rainbow Falls?

Here is an exciting afternoon trip that provides you with the opportunity to discover one of the most hidden gems in all of the Scenic City - Rainbow Falls.

So, You Want To Go To Phelps Lake?

It's a Teton classic. Here's a step-by-step guide to reaching the Jumping Rock at Phelps Lake in Grand Teton National Park.

Playing in the Pisgah: How to Spend a Weekend in Western Carolina

It's no secret that the mountains of Western North Carolina have a wide array of wonderful places to live and play. Here's how to spend a weekend in the Pisgah National Forest.

Denali / Trailblazer Upcoming Events

Exploring Oak Mountain: Alabama's Largest State Park

Located 20 miles south of Birmingham, Oak Mountain is the largest state park in Alabama. Here's the complete guide to exploring it.

RootsRated Internship

Interested in having an internship in the outdoor industry? RootsRated is seeking a Communications Intern for Fall 14.

5 Best Hikes Voted by San Francisco Locals

San Francisco easily boasts some of the best trails in the country, and the people have voted these 5 hikes the best around.

Knoxville's 11 Best Swimming Holes

From mountain streams to gorgeous lakes, Knoxville is loaded with awesome places to go swimming in a natural setting. You can make the short drive to the Smokies to take a refreshing dip at the base of a waterfall, or you can stay within city limits...

Rate Your Knoxville Roots

From mountain streams to quarries, Knoxville is loaded with swimming holes, and everyone has a favorite.

6 Beautiful Paddleboard Destinations in Chattanooga

Chattanooga is home to some excellent flat water paddleboarding opportunities, and here are 6 that will suit whatever fancy you're feeling.

Root For Your Country

"From sea to shining sea," to all the mountains, rivers, & streams in between, this cou...

Rate Your Birmingham Roots

By Rating your Birmingham Roots, you will be entered to win an Osprey Hydration Pack and will help us decide the top trail destination in one of the country’s top upcoming outdoor towns.

The Chattanoogans Have Spoken

From sunset trail runs along the bluff of Lookout Mountain, to long scenic paddles down the Tennessee River – the City of Chattanooga has something to offer everyone. During the week...

Rate Your Chattanooga Routes