The 15 Best Hikes in Chattanooga for Adventure Seekers

If you’re seeking an adventure in Chattanooga, Tennessee, you’ve found the perfect destination! This vibrant city boasts over 400 miles of picturesque hiking trails, catering to hikers of all skill levels and fitness levels. From scenic state parks to challenging mountain treks, Chattanooga has it all!

Get ready for an unforgettable hike in this beautiful city. To help you plan your adventure, here are the 15 best hikes in Chattanooga.

What are the best hikes in Chattanooga?

  • Lookout Mountain – Sunset Rock Trail: This moderate 3.1 mile hike offers stunning views of the city and Tennessee River Gorge.
  • Stringers Ridge Park – Blue Loop Trail: A great trail for beginners, this 2-mile loop features a peaceful forest setting with wildflowers and wildlife.
  • Signal Point Overlook Trail: Located in Signal Mountain State Park, this scenic 4.6 mile loop takes you to breathtaking views of the Tennessee River Valley.
  • Raccoon Mountain: If you’re feeling adventurous, take on this challenging 7-mile trail that leads to a beautiful waterfall.
  • Cumberland Trail – Soddy Creek Gorge Segment: This 5-mile segment of the Cumberland Trail offers a variety of terrain and beautiful creekside views.
  • Cloudland Canyon State Park: Enjoy stunning views of the canyon on this moderate 1-mile loop trail.
  • Prentice Cooper State Forest – Mullens Cove Loop: This difficult 9.3 mile hike offers beautiful views of Tennessee River Gorge and Nickajack Lake.
  • Lula Lake Land Trust – Bluff Trail: Explore waterfalls, forests, and limestone cliffs on this moderate 3.5 mile hike.

Are there mountains near Chattanooga?

Yes, Chattanooga is surrounded by several mountains that offer amazing hiking opportunities. Lookout Mountain, Signal Mountain, and Raccoon Mountain are just a few popular options for hikers looking to explore the natural beauty of the area.

These mountains also offer other activities such as rock climbing and mountain biking for those seeking more adventure.

When is the best time to go hiking in Chattanooga?

The best time to go hiking in Chattanooga is during the spring or fall season when the temperatures are cooler and the foliage is at its most vibrant.

However, with mild winters and hot summers, hiking can still be enjoyable year-round in this city. Just make sure to pack accordingly for different weather conditions.

Best Hiking Trails in Chattanooga

We’ve put together this list of the best hikes in Chattanooga to help you pick one that matches your skill level and interests. Happy hiking!

Get to know Chattanooga! Check out these articles:

1) Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge

  • Length: 1.4 miles
  • Elevation gain: 164 feet
  • Time to complete: 35 minutes

For those looking to enjoy a short hike, check out the first stop on our list. The Tennessee Riverpark is a great place to enjoy a beautiful view and spend some time outdoors.

Located right by Ross’s Landing, you can easily walk from downtown or take your car to enjoy an even more scenic view.

It is a great place to take your dog, enjoy some time outdoors with friends and family, or even go on a romantic date. The view is beautiful, and you can see downtown and Signal Mountain from different vantage points.

The trail is relatively easy, and you can enjoy it with friends and family. There are several benches along the way if you need to take a break or want to sit down and enjoy a moment.

2) Snoopers Rock Trail

  • Length: 5.9 miles
  • Elevation gain: 1,167 feet
  • Time to complete: 3 hours

While this trail is technically over 5 miles long, there are some parking spaces very close to Snoopers Rock. So if you want to take a leisurely drive through Prentice Cooper State Forest and hang out near the edge of this cliff, you’ll be surprised to learn that it’s really easy!

And not only that, but you’ll also see a lot of people (and dogs!) enjoying life by the cliffs. It’s a very popular spot on weekends.

This trail is one of my favorites because it offers a great workout accompanied by an even greater view. A perfect way to spend your day!

The trail itself is easy to follow and doesn’t seem too difficult for most folks. You even get some shade here and there when the sun gets too hot.

There are no restroom facilities along this route, so make sure you use them before you start. This hike can be shortened or lengthened if needed – don’t feel like you have to do the whole 5 miles right away.

Since this trail connects with several others, it’s pretty easy to make your way back to the trailhead if you need to!

3) Stringer’s Ridge via Blue Trail

  • Length: 3.3 miles
  • Elevation gain: 508 feet
  • Time to complete: 1-2 hours

If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, consider Stringers Ridge. This is a longer trail (5 miles round trip) with some steeper sections, but the views from the top are worth it.

The trail itself is mostly wooded, with some open areas near the top. You can take several different routes to the summit, so you can explore a bit and find the one that works best for you.

Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the city and surrounding mountains.

The views from the top are breathtaking, and you can see for miles in all directions. It’s also a great trail for mountain biking; the different routes offer a variety of challenges for all skill levels.

This is a more challenging hike, with some steep sections. It’s also a longer trail, so be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks.

4) Ritchie Hollow Trail

  • Length: 2.8 miles
  • Elevation gain: 649 feet
  • Time to complete: 1-2 hours

This short but sweet trail takes you to one of Chattanooga’s best-kept secrets: a hidden waterfall tucked away in the woods. The trail itself is only about a half-mile long, but it’s fairly steep in places.

When you reach the falls, you can cool off with a swim or enjoy the peace and quiet of this hidden oasis.

The waterfall is beautiful and secluded, and it’s a great place to cool off on a hot day. The trail is also relatively short, so it’s a good option if you don’t have a lot of time to spare.

This is a fairly steep trail, but it’s short enough that it’s doable for most people. However, there are some steep drop-offs near the waterfall, so use caution if you have small children or dogs with you.

5) Glen Falls Trail

  • Length: 2.3 miles
  • Elevation gain: 554 feet
  • Time to complete: 1 hour

If you want to really get away from it all, head to the Glen Falls Trail at Lookout Mountain.

The trail is about 3 miles long, and while it’s not overly strenuous, there are some steep sections. Once you reach the top, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the city, river, and mountains beyond.

The views from the top are incredible, and it’s a great place to watch the sunset. There’s also a historic civil war site at the top, so you can learn a bit of history while you’re there.

This is a moderate hike with some steep sections. It’s also a bit longer than some of the other trails on this list, so be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks.

6) Lula Lake Land Trust

  • Length: 4.6 miles
  • Elevation gain: 623 feet
  • Time to complete: 2 hours

This is a great option if you’re looking for a longer hike. The Lula Lake Land Trust offers more than 15 miles of trails, so you can explore to your heart’s content.

The trails wind through the woods and offer a variety of scenery, from rocky outcrops to peaceful lakes. You can also find two waterfalls along the way, so be sure to keep your camera handy.

This is a moderate hike with some terrain that can be challenging in places. However, there are several different trails to choose from, so you can find one that’s a good fit for your fitness level.

7) Greeter Falls

  • Length: 1.1 miles
  • Elevation gain: 262 feet
  • Time to complete: 1 hour

This trail will take you to one of the most popular waterfalls in the area. It’s a great place to visit if you’re looking for an easy hike with a waterfall at its end. The falls are about 15 feet tall and drop into a 50-foot pool surrounded by rocks and trees.

It makes for a beautiful spot to spend some time on your hike, especially during summer when there are fewer leaves on surrounding trees, so you can get better views.

This short, family-friendly hike is great for novice hikers or those looking to get back into hiking after being away from it for a while. It has a steady incline that doesn’t leave you feeling worn out, and it leads you through woods and along ridges with lovely views of other waterfalls around. As you climb to Greeter Falls, you’ll also see rhododendron, mountain laurel, maples, oaks, and beech trees.

This is an easy, family-friendly hike with a moderate incline. It’s about 1 mile long and takes around 45 minutes to complete.

8) Cravens House Loop Trail

  • Length: 3.4 miles
  • Elevation gain: 679 feet
  • Time to complete: 1-2 hours

This is another great option for those looking for an easy, family-friendly hike. The Cravens House trail is located in Point Park Visitor Ctr, Lookout Mountain, and can be accessed from Point Park Rd.

The trail is a short, 0.5-mile loop that leads you to the historic Cravens House. This house was built in 18 and was used as a Union Army outpost during the civil war. It’s now a museum, and it’s open to the public on weekends.

This short, easy hike is great for all fitness levels. It’s also a great option if you’re looking to learn more about the area’s history.

This is an easy, flat hike that’s less than a mile long. It should take you around 30 minutes to complete.

9) Fiery Gizzard Trail to Raven’s Point

  • Length: 11.4 miles
  • Elevation gain: 1,459 feet
  • Time to complete: 5 hours

The trail is 12.5 miles long, and it takes you through a variety of scenery, from forests to streams. The trail is also home to a variety of wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for deer, birds, and other animals.

This is a great option for those looking for a longer hike. It’s also a beautiful trail, with plenty of opportunities to see wildlife.

This is a moderate to difficult hike, depending on your fitness level. It’s over 12 miles long, so it will take you several hours to complete.

10) Enterprise South Nature Park

  • Length: 2.7 miles
  • Elevation gain: 649 feet
  • Time to complete: 1-2 hours

The nature park offers a variety of amenities, including well-maintained hiking trails, designated one-way roads for vehicles, ample parking facilities, and conveniently located restrooms.

With over 20 miles of trails, you can find a hike that suits your fitness level and interests.

The trails wind through forests and along creeks, with plenty of opportunities to see wildlife. There are also historical sites within the park, such as an old farmstead and Civil War artifacts.

This is a great option for those looking for a variety of trail options in one location. The length and difficulty of hikes will vary depending on which trail you choose.

The dog park is truly delightful, boasting a spacious fenced area with abundant trees, agility features, a splash pool, and a sandbox—all impeccably maintained. Thus far, we have encountered responsible owners and dogs of various shapes and sizes, all displaying a friendly disposition.

11) Raccoon Mountain Reservoir Loop

View of Chattanooga from Raccoon mountain
  • Length: 13.5 miles
  • Elevation gain: 1,414 feet
  • Time to complete: 5-6 hours

Raccoon Mountain is one of many hills in a series of north-south trending ridges on Lookout Mountain. The hill is also home to several other popular trails, including North and South Plateau Loop Trails, Bluff Trail, and Sunset Rock Overlook.

This is a great hike for beginners and families with children because it’s short, easy to navigate, has beautiful views of Chattanooga, and offers plenty of scenic photo opportunities.

The best part about hiking to Raccoon Mountain is that it’s easy to get to. If you live in Chattanooga, it’s only a 30-minute drive from downtown.

The trail is not difficult at all. There are a few steep areas, but they’re short and easy to navigate. The trail is relatively flat with only a few slight inclines, so it’s great for families with children or beginners who want to get their feet wet on a hike. You can do it all in about 2 hours if you move quickly.

12) Suck Creek Road to Mushroom Rock

  • Length: 3.8 miles
  • Elevation gain: 1,210 feet
  • Time to complete: 2 hours

It features stunning views of Lookout Mountain, which are sure to take your breath away. It also features two rock outcroppings called Mushroom Rock and Suck Creek Rock.

These areas are quite popular with hikers because they offer incredible views of Lookout Mountain. If you’re planning on hiking here, you should be aware that there are some fairly steep sections along the way, so make sure you wear appropriate footwear to avoid injury or discomfort.

The hike is challenging, and you’ll need to be prepared. You’ll want to wear good boots or shoes and bring plenty of water with you.

13) The Tennessee Riverwalk

  • Length: 2.7 miles
  • Elevation gain: 118 feet
  • Time to complete: 1 hour

For easy parking, head to Tennessee Riverpark Curtain Pole Road at 2011 Curtain Pole Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37406. Also known as the Riverwalk, this 2.7-mile paved trail is perfect for a leisurely stroll along the Tennessee River.

This walk features scenic views of downtown Chattanooga and Lookout Mountain. It’s also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friend along for a laidback walk through downtown.

You can also access various attractions such as the Chattanooga Aquarium, Ross’ Landing Park, and Coolidge Park along the way. It’s really fun to walk across Walnut Street Bridge!

14) Ropers Rock and Bluff Trail

  • Length: 8.9 miles
  • Elevation gain: 1,154 feet
  • Time to complete: 4 hours

The Ropers Rock lookout is a short but sweet hike located at Lookout Mountain. You’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the city and the Tennessee River from the top, making it well worth the effort.

The scenic overlook is especially popular with photographers and birdwatchers, as it’s a great place to snap some pictures or spot rare birds.

The Ropers Rock lookout is a great choice for those who want to experience stunning views without spending hours on the trail. It’s also a good option if you’re short on time but still want to get in a good workout. The rocky outcroppings at the top make for some great photo ops.

15) Greenway Farms Loop

  • Length: 2 miles
  • Elevation gain: 59 feet
  • Time to complete: 1 hour

The Greenway Farms Loop is a short but sweet hike that’s perfect for those who want to enjoy some scenic views without venturing too far from town.

The loop winds through a beautiful hardwood forest and past several picturesque ponds before arriving at an overlooking of the Tennessee River.

Along the way, you’ll also have the chance to spot some wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and birds.

Conclusion

These are the 15 best hikes in Chattanooga for adventure seekers. Whether you’re looking for a challenging workout or a leisurely stroll, a hike on this list is perfect for you.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your hiking boots and get ready to explore everything Chattanooga has to offer!

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