Top 13 Outdoor Activities in Chattanooga, TN

If you’re looking for an easy, fun, and affordable way to explore the city of Chattanooga, a bike rental is the perfect option! From mountain biking trails to leisurely rides along scenic riverfronts, there are plenty of great places to ride in this Tennessee town. Through bike rentals, visitors can make their way around town with ease and convenience.

The Chattanooga Bicycle Transit System is a local business that offers quality bicycles for rent! Not only is it a great way to get around but it also provides an opportunity to take in all that this vibrant city has to offer from up close and personal. With its stunning natural beauty just waiting to be explored, there's no better way than cruising through Chattanooga on two wheels!

Rock City Gardens is a natural wonderland situated atop Lookout Mountain — and is an absolute must-see when it comes to the best outdoor activities in Chattanooga. With its breathtaking views and unique geological features, Rock City offers visitors an unforgettable experience. The attraction has been open since 1932 but the iconic formation of the area dates back millions of years when the mountain was formed by mono-volcanic eruptions and shaped by wind erosion.

Today, Rock City is home to over 400 different species of plants and animals that live among its many crevices and caves. It’s also known for its impressive rock formations such as “Fat Man Squeeze” where you can crawl through a narrow crevice in between two giant rocks! Visitors can explore this incredible landscape via several trails that range from easy hiking to more challenging rock scrambles up steep terrain.

One must-see attraction at Rock City is the Fairyland Caverns which feature whimsical displays of gnomes, trolls, and other mythical creatures hidden within grottos illuminated with twinkle lights. There are also multiple observation points throughout the park offering unparalleled panoramic views across seven states! On clear days, you can even spot Georgia's Lookout Mountain Flight Park — one of America's premier hang-gliding destinations!

Lookout Mountain Flight Park is an incredible place to experience the thrill of hang gliding. With its stunning views across seven states and perfect conditions for soaring through the air, this flight park is a top destination for any outdoor enthusiast and thrill seeker. The area offers plenty of launch sites that range from beginner-friendly slopes to more challenging terrain – so no matter what your level of experience, you can find the right lesson for you.

The friendly staff at Lookout Mountain Flight Park will provide you with all the necessary equipment and instruction needed to take off on your very own adventure. You'll learn about proper takeoff techniques as well as tips on how to fly safely during your time in the air. Once you're airborne, get ready to be wowed by breathtaking views of the Appalachian Mountains below while reaching incredible heights!

If you'd rather stay closer to earth then Lookout Mountain also has some great bike tours which offer up plenty of scenic vistas and thrilling descents down winding trails. Whether it's high above or low below — Lookout Mountain has something special for every type of adventurer looking for an unforgettable day outdoors.

The Chattanooga Riverwalk is a scenic trail located along the Tennessee River in downtown Chattanooga. Spanning over 16 miles, this picturesque path connects many of the city’s most popular attractions and provides outdoor enthusiasts with an ideal place to exercise and explore. Whether you feel like a leisurely stroll or an intense workout, the Riverwalk is one of the best outdoor things to do in Chattanooga.

For runners, there are plenty of opportunities to get your heart rate up while taking in some amazing views. The terrain varies from wide open paved pathways near Coolidge Park to more rugged trails that wind through wooded areas – so no matter what level of difficulty you're after there's something here to suit your needs. There are also plenty of conveniently placed rest stops along the way if needed, which are perfect for taking a break before continuing on your journey.

If you’re looking to refuel afterward, there are plenty of local restaurants nearby. On the other hand, you can have a picnic while checking out the wildlife like turtles sunning themselves alongside the river banks, or simply admire the nearby sculptures designed by renowned artists.

The Chattanooga Zoo is a must-see destination for animal lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Located in the heart of downtown, this incredible zoo offers visitors an unforgettable experience as they explore its vast array of exotic species from all over the globe.

From majestic African elephants to playful lemurs – there’s no shortage of beautiful creatures to see. With more than 1,200 animals representing 200 different species, it’s easy to get lost in the wonderful world of wildlife that awaits. You can even take part in interactive experiences such as giraffe feedings or kangaroo encounters, which provide unique opportunities to learn more about these amazing animals up close and personal.

The zoo also features exciting attractions — from an animal carousel ride to a zipline adventure where you can soar through the treetops like a bird while taking in stunning views across the park below. There are also several educational programs available throughout the year, giving kids chances to learn about wildlife conservation and other important issues facing our natural environment today.

If you’re looking for different outdoor activities in Chattanooga, Hidden Hills Farm & Saddle Club is a must-visit destination for horseback riders of all skill levels. Located just outside of Chattanooga, this stunning equestrian center offers an unforgettable experience for those looking to explore the beautiful Tennessee countryside in style.

You can enjoy riding your trusty steed or choose from one of the many horses available at the stables — ranging from gentle giants to spunky ponies. The friendly staff at Hidden Hills will be more than happy to provide guidance and tips on how best to handle your ride while also providing essential safety knowledge such as proper saddle fit and bridling techniques.

The trails that wind throughout the property are truly breathtaking – taking you through lush woodlands, along winding streams, and up rolling hillsides where you’ll have a chance to stop and admire some spectacular panoramic mountain views. If you’re lucky enough, you may even catch sight of local wildlife such as deer or wild turkeys which inhabit these parts.

Fall Creek Falls State Park is one of the most beautiful and popular natural attractions in Tennessee, boasting over 29,800 acres of majestic forests, rolling hillsides, and cascading waterfalls.

The park features an array of activities for all ages and skill levels including scenic hiking trails that meander through the lush landscape with plenty of breathtaking lookout points along the way – perfect for an afternoon stroll or more challenging hikes up steep terrain. For those interested in taking a dip (and trust us, you will be!), Fall Creek offers several swimming holes where visitors can enjoy refreshing dips on hot summer days or even brave their way into some adventurous whitewater rafting routes.

If wildlife watching is more your style, then you’re sure to have plenty of opportunities here as well. From black bears roaming around the area to birds flitting about overhead – it won’t take long before you feel like part of this amazing ecosystem. Don't forget to make time for exploring some of the spectacular waterfalls, such as Cane Creek Falls which stands 75 feet tall, making it one of the tallest cascades in the state.

The Ocoee River Gorge is an adrenaline-filled paradise for thrill-seekers looking to experience the wilder side of nature. This popular destination is home to some of the best whitewater rafting in the state – providing an exciting adventure that will have your heart racing with excitement the entire time.

Whether you’re brand new or an experienced rafter, there are plenty of options available on the river. From gentle rapids suitable for those just starting out to more demanding courses designed for seasoned veterans — the Ocoee Adventure Center will show you the time of your life.

But it doesn't stop at white water rafting - other activities can be found throughout this picturesque area which include kayaking, fishing, biking, and even rock climbing. So make sure to take advantage of all these great opportunities during your visit – after all, what better way to explore this beautiful region than by getting out into its natural splendor?

Not only is Ruby Falls a popular tourist attraction but it’s also one of the favorite Chattanooga outdoor activities among locals. Located within Lookout Mountain, this majestic 145-foot waterfall cascades down from a towering height – creating a picturesque sight that will take your breath away.

If you want to make your experience even more special, taking part in the Ruby Falls Lantern Tour is a must. Offered every evening during select dates throughout the year, visitors have the unique opportunity to explore this incredible natural wonder after hours while being guided through its depths via handheld lantern lights. It’s suitable for adults and kids over the age of 5, making it a fun activity for the whole family! Just be sure to grab your tickets online ahead of time, as reservations are required.

The tour begins at Lookout Mountain’s cave entrance which leads you into a 200 million-year-old cavern filled with secret passageways and ancient formations. The journey is illuminated by bright lanterns which create an enchanting atmosphere as you make your way toward Ruby Falls itself. As you ascend these hidden pathways, you'll be surrounded by stunning stalactites, sparkling rock formations, and glittering water droplets reflecting off each wall — making it feel like something straight out of a fairytale!