3 Of Our Favorite Hiking Spots Around Chattanooga
Looking to explore the best of Chattanooga’s natural beauty? We asked our very own Crisler Torrence—a longtime outdoorsman and local expert on all things hiking—to share his top picks for hitting the trails. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly stroll to a swimming hole, a quick trek with sweeping views, or a longer adventure with stunning waterfalls, Crisler’s narrowed it down to his three favorite hikes around Chattanooga. Lace up your boots and let’s hit the trail!
North Chickamauga Creek State Park
North Chickamauga Creek State Park is a local favorite for a reason. Just minutes from the parking lot, you’ll find several inviting swimming holes perfect for cooling off on a hot day—no long hike required. If you’re up for more of an adventure, follow the trail deeper into the gorge to reach the Blue Hole, a crystal-clear natural pool surrounded by lush forest. This trail is relatively easy, making it a great option for families with kids or anyone looking for a quick escape into nature without too much effort.
Cravens House to Point Park
The hike from Cravens House up to Point Park is a short and scenic trail that packs a big reward. At just about 2 miles round trip, it’s a manageable trek for most hikers and offers one of the best panoramic views in all of Chattanooga once you reach the top. The trail winds through a peaceful wooded area, providing plenty of shade and a serene atmosphere as you make your way up Lookout Mountain. It’s a route our team member Wynn has done many times, and we’d rate it a solid 1.5 on 1-3 difficulty scale—just enough to get your heart rate up without feeling too intense. If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying hike with unbeatable views, this one’s hard to top.
If you’re up for a more rigorous hike, try heading up the Sunset Rock trail that branches off of the Cravens House Trail. This is about a 2-2.5 on a scale of 1-3 difficulty level.Â
Cloudland Canyon State Park
Cloudland Canyon State Park is a must-visit for anyone who loves a hike with a big payoff. The Sitton’s Gulch Trail is a longer trek compared to the others on our list, but the journey is well worth it. Rated a 2 on our difficulty scale, this trail takes you through a stunning canyon filled with towering rock walls, dense hardwood forest, and the soothing sound of rushing water. Along the way, you’ll be treated to not just one—but two—impressive waterfalls that are especially beautiful after a good rain. The trail is well-maintained, and while the distance might be a bit more than a casual stroll, the scenery and sense of adventure make every step worthwhile. If you’re looking for a day hike that delivers incredible views and that “wow” factor, this one’s for you.
Whether you’re in the mood for a quick scenic walk or a full-day waterfall adventure, these three trails offer a little something for everyone.
Handpicked by our resident hiking expert, Crisler Torrence
Each spot showcases the natural beauty that makes the Chattanooga area such a special place to explore. Happy hiking!
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