The beauty of Chattanooga is well known to locals and visitors from far away in tandem, for the Tennessee River that strikes the city straight through its belly and the rolling mountains and hills that edge its borders. The city is the perfect mix of small-town and city life, with great neighborhoods and schools for the kids existing alongside protected parks and museums. If you're visiting Chattanooga, Tennessee, or are perhaps looking for a way to experience the area more fully, then we'd recommend an afternoon on the Tennessee Riverwalk. At a whopping 13 miles, you may not find yourself walking it in its entirety, but even the smallest jaunt down the trail is well worth it.
The Chattanooga Riverwalk is also known as the Tennessee Riverwalk, mainly because it follows the Tennessee River. There are dozens of places along the walk that provide access to the trailhead, so you may want to check and see which one you're closest to before planning your trip.
All the official trailheads have parking spaces, so you won't have to worry about where to leave your car. We'd recommend starting at Coolidge Park and walking across the famed Walnut Street Bridge, mainly for the beautiful photo opportunities and the views!
If you're looking to extend your walk, you'll find that the walking path connects with the South Chickamauga Creek Greenway just short of the Chickamauga Dam. It adds another 9 miles of paved paths to the experience! If you're cycling, this may be a solid addition.
Make sure you keep your eyes peeled as you walk. Everyone in the city is friendly, so you'll probably chat with other folks on the trail, but those views are truly next level.
The Riverwalk also has two boat ramps that make it easy for you to launch into the Tennessee River. If you don't have your own watercraft, then you can rent from one of the companies that dot the riverbank.
In Chattanooga proper, you'll find that the Riverwalk takes you near the Tennessee Aquarium and up to the Bluff View Art District. Both are great stops for something to eat or perhaps a quick educational experience for the littles.
From the Bike Chattanooga stations found along the Riverwalk to the easy, paved surface great for folks of all ages and abilities, this may be the most accessible trail in the state of Tennesee. It's perfect for the whole family, whether you're looking for a jaunt that will take the entire day (the path is lit at night and patrolled by security) or just a quick walk after lunch.
Don't miss exploring the rest of the city either! Chattanooga is truly a darling place, one of the best spots in the state to fall in love with that perfect mix of city and country. You can learn more about this particular riverfront experience right here and here.
What a great hike! If you're looking for an experience that is a bit more rugged, you'll find it at this gorgeous state park.
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