Hiking in the Spring in Chattanooga, TN

Spring is finally here! This is the best time to get outdoors to take in nature's beauty and see a display of wildflowers. Whether you are an amateur or experienced hiker, you will enjoy a hike outdoors. If you live in the Chattanooga area, you are in luck, because there are so many hiking trails around. Some are right in the downtown area, on Lookout and Signal Mountains, and plenty others within an hour's drive of the city. Here are some popular day hikes:

Raccoon Mountain
First time visitors should stop at the Visitor Center to see a stunning view of the Tennessee River Gorge and learn the history of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) facility before embarking on a hike. Raccoon Mountain has at least 8 hiking trails, with levels ranging from beginner to expert level. One easy hike that is excellent for the whole family is the 2.5 miles South Rim Trail. After your hike, enjoy a relaxing picnic along the Tennessee River.

Lookout Mountain
You can combine your hike with a little history at Lookout Mountain, where the Battle of Chattanooga was fought during the Civil War. Bluff Trail is a moderate trail, with a length of 8.6 miles. You can hike a portion of it, starting at Craven's House, and walking a moderately rocky trail to Sunset Rock. The reward is a spectacular view of the city of Chattanooga and the scenic Tennessee River.

South Cumberland State Park
This Tennessee state park is unique in that it comprises of 10 separate park areas totaling over 16,000 acres. Stop by the South Cumberland Visitor Center in Monteagle, about 50 miles northwest of Chattanooga, to get some maps and information about the area. There is a host of trails for hiking and mountain climbing, ranging from easy to difficult. Two popular and easy hikes are Foster Falls and Grundy Lakes. The Foster Falls to Small Wilds is an easy 5 miles (roundtrip) hike with overlooks to admire the 60-foot waterfall. At Grundy Lakes, there is a little bit of history as well. In 1883, the Tennessee Coal and Iron Company built 120 coke ovens to convert locally mined coal to coke, and some of these can be found at Grundy Lakes.

Sewanee
Celebrate spring with a hike to see a wonderful array of wildflowers at the University of the South in Sewanee, 53 miles northwest of Chattanooga. A popular day hike for wildflowers viewing is the Shakerag Hollow trail, an easy to moderate trail, which starts at the university gate. After or before your hike, spend a couple of hours to visit the lovely campus, see the art galleries and the beautiful All Saint's Chapel. If you have time and are hungry, you can join the students to eat at the cafeteria.