Visiting Chattanooga, TN
This page contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase via a link on this page, we make a small commission at absolutely no extra charge to you. Thank you for your support of this small women-led business.
One of our favorite things to do in downtown Chattanooga is rooftop cocktail hours!
Chatta-hike Your Way to Bliss: Why Chattanooga Rocks
Join us on a week-long Tennessee escapade, where the only thing more abundant than our love for hiking and rare bourbons is an appreciation for a good laugh. Wondering why Tennessee? Well, besides being the birthplace of country music, it's home to Chattanooga – a city that's like a quirky friend you never knew you needed.
First things first, find the cheapest flight. Because, let's be real, budgeting for souvenir magnets is crucial. Chattanooga won the flight lottery with its scenic trails and mouthwatering food scene – the kind that'll have you questioning your loyalty to your own kitchen.
Next up, finding the perfect VRBO – Chattanooga's got you covered, offering cozy spots that make you feel like you're crashing at a friend's place, minus the awkward small talk.
Now, the main event – hiking! Lookout Mountain and state parks with trails that rival amusement parks. Do they chase waterfalls or opt for trails with Insta-worthy views? Tough choices, but in Chattanooga, every path is a win.
Chattanooga itself is a history buff's dream with Civil War tales and quirky small-town charm. It's a city where even the ghosts appreciate a good Tennessee twang.
VIsiting Chattanooga in fall is magical.
So, why Tennessee?
Because Chattanooga makes every day an adventure. Whether you're exploring the city or navigating trails with more twists than a country song, the Volunteer State welcomes you with open arms and a side of southern hospitality. Get ready to explore, laugh, and maybe even attempt to uncover the secret to the perfect moonshine cocktail!
About a two-hour drive from Nashville, Chattanooga sits on the mouth of a river, connected by a series of bridges. Immersed in historical lore, this city boasts of battles fought in and around Chattanooga during the Civil War which strengthened the Union army. These battles spurred the Union army to complete victory over the south.
Get Your FREE 7 Day Chattanooga, TN Itinerary Here!
Get ready for 7 days of pure Tennessee magic! We've got awesome hikes that feel like nature's playground and tastings of the coolest whiskey in town. Imagine colorful fall views, walking through history, and munching on tasty local treats. It's not just a guide; it's your map to a week full of adventures and delicious surprises in the heart of Tennessee. Let's make these seven days the best story ever!
Visiting Chattanooga always involves hiking or walking over bridges
VISITING GUIDE TENNESSEE STYLE
Day 1: VISITING NASHVILLE
Day 2: HIKING GLENN FALLS | DOWNTOWN CHATTANOOGA ART WALK
Day 3: HIKE LOOKOUT LOOP | DRINKS AT EASY BISTRO
Day 4: WHISKEY TOUR DAY| Jack Daniels | George Dickel | Nearest Green
Day 5: HIKE FOSTER FALLS | DINNER AT CHAT TOWN
Day 6: BIKE CHATTANOOGA
Day 7: HIKE CLOUDLAND CANYON STATE PARK
Where to Stay in Chattanooga
How to Get to Chattanooga
What to Bring to Chattanooga
Make Your Own Trip - 1 Day to 7 Days
COHH Note! Below are suggested itineraries if you don’t have a full week to explore. Each of the suggestions are detailed in full within the blog post.
1 Full DAy
Hop on a bike and tour Chattanooga on wheels.
If your bum is ready for a break, take two hours and explore the Tennessee Aquarium.
Finish the day with a cocktail (or two) at Whiskey Thief before heading to EASY BIstro for dinner.
2 Days
Add…
Grab breakfast at Niedlov’s Breadworks before heading to Point Park.
Hike to Point Park: While the entire loop is 21 miles, start at Guild Trailhead off Ochs Highway and hike to Point Park. This should take about 2-3 hours depending on your hiking speed.
Dinner: Tony’s Pasta Shop and Trattoria
3 Days
Add…
Breakfast at Frothy' Monkey
Distillery Tours: Jack Daniels and Nearest Green
Dinner: Stop at Alimentari for a drink and meal!
4 Days
Add…
Hike to Cloudland Canyon State Park. About 30 minutes from Chattanooga, you have dozens of trails to choose from.
We recommend Waterfalls Trails (Cherokee and Hemlock Falls) as well as Sitton’s Gulch Trail
Dinner: Bridgeman’s Chophouse with a must stop dessert cupcake at Cupcake Kitchen.
5 days
Add…
Hike Foster Falls. A 50 minute drive from downtown, this hike is spectacular in views. Your day will be spent in nature, taking in waterfalls, canyon walls and stunning vista views.
Dinner is well earned at Alleia.
6 Days
Add…
Morning hike to Glenn Falls. If you like, reserve a ticket for Ruby Falls. (We were not able to get tickets but it is one of the attractions in Chattanooga).
Head to Nashville and do a 2 hour tour, hitting up Broadway Street and snacking on some Prince’s Hot Chicken.
Day 1
Ready to board that plane and head to Chattown? Locals have many nicknames for this city - River City", "Chatt", "Nooga", and "Gig City." No matter what you call it, visiting Chattanooga should be on your TO DO list.
Morning
After landing in Nashville, plan around two hours for a quick tour of the city before heading to Chattanooga. We arrived around noon giving us enough daylight to explore a bit before our 2 1/2 hour drive to Chattanooga.
Lunch
2 Hour Tour Nashville Tour
We were hungry and ready for some downhome famous Nashville Hot Chicken. Assembly Food Hall is the perfect destination to take in a bit of Nashville flavor. Minutes from Broadway Street, step into this multi-story open air shopping and dining center.
CoHH Note! If you’re curious about this famous musical street and have more time to explore, blogger Her Life in Ruins, gives you hours of entertainment options for this area.
Food Stop! We split an order of Hot Chicken, ordering medium heat. Story lore goes that Girlfriend Prince Hot Chicken found out about her man’s philandering. Instead of confronting him, she infused pepper into his chicken, hoping to bring out some hopping emotions. Turns out Mister Hot Chicken didn’t get the memo as he fell in love with this new style of chicken. While that relationship didn’t last, the famous chicken did.
After some serious finger link ‘in eating, step out and walk Broadway Street. Walk with throngs of people listening to honkytonk and gospel beats. No matter the time of day or week, there is a party happening on this street.
Before you head out of town, stop at one of four Well Coffeehouse locations for a caffeine fix. Not only will you get a perfect cup of joe, your purchase helps build water wells in one of the regions where that cup of coffee was grown. That’s a win/win in our book!
Assembly Food Hall 5055 Broadway Pl, Nashville, TN 37203
How long is the drive between Nashville and Chattanooga?
While there are a few roads that take you between Nashville and Chattanooga, the main route, I-24 gets you there the fastest, that is if you’re not headed out around rush hour.
It’s a lovely drive during the day but dark and winding at night. Various map apps will give you some additional routes so keep those apps up and running as you drive.
Be forewarned. Aside from the main interstate, the back roads are filled with curves, dark and hard to navigate for the TN newbie. Add in inclement weather and you’ll be more than ready to see Chattanooga arrive.
*We drove this at night with gail force winds and rain. There was a lot of knuckle clenching and silence.
RV Rental Option for the Adventurer!
If carefree is your middle name, rent one of these 5 star rated RV Rentals in Chattanooga. You can experience the magic of the outdoors with the best RV, camper van, and travel trailer rentals imaginable.
Own an RV? Earn over $50,000 per year
List your RV for free and rent whenever you want, with full renter verification and vehicle insurance options.
Day 2 Visiting Chattanooga
Morning Waterfall Hike
If you’re like us wondering where to stay in Chattanooga, we found the famous Lookout Mountain area in the St Elmo neighborhood to be perfect. Step outside your front door and find yourself near one of dozens of hiking trails while still close enough for that early morning coffee and pastry stop!
Armed with a pound of ground coffee from Well Coffeehouse and a press pot, we got our caffeine fix and headed out for some exploration.
First Stop- Hike to Glenn Falls
Guild Trail to Glenn Falls
Mileage: 2.0 miles. Elevation Gain: 551 ft. Route: Out and Back
Start at Guild Trail near Alabama Ave in St Elmo. There is no parking except for on the side of the road. You’ll connect to Glenn Falls trail.
We walked from our lodging, tacking on an additional 2 miles via the St Elmo Trail. Guild trail is accessible from many areas.
An uphill switchback trek, the hiking views in the fall are stunning with hues of orange, red and yellows. There are a few spots hidden by fallen leaves that make the trail difficult to follow in places.
Just after crossing a wood bridge, you’ll see stone stairs and a small opening through large boulders. Walk through to an amazing waterfall and flowing stream.
Truly a spectacular space to sit, listen to the flowing water and breath deep. You are now amid nature. Soak it in. Continue on Glenn Falls until you reach the road for an extra shot of Tennessee leaf peeping.
CoHH Tip! There are many ways to navigate the trails in this neighborhood. Check out the St Elmo blog for maps, directions and insider information.
Chattanooga has amazing restaurants and bakeries. Neidlov’s coffee was incredible!
Lunch at Niedlov’s Breadworks
After a quick clean up, hop in the car and head to Niedlov’s Breadworks. With choices ranging from steak sandwiches to sorghum croissants, there is something for every appetite. With a variety of gluten free, vegan and all the things options, Niedlov’s outdoor patio is a great place to sit and plan the rest of your day.
Niedlov Breadworks 215 E Main St, Chattanooga, TN 37408 423-756-0303
Afternoon | Visiting Chattanooga’s downtown
Melody’s husband put together this public art and restaurant walking map. Depending on how long you want to walk, pick one location or all and start exploring. When looking for things to do in Chattanooga this weekend or any day, pick a spot and start walking!
Favorite Stops
Chattanooga Train Station If you need an afternoon pick me up, stop at Frothy Monkey in the station for a unique beverage. They have an array of pastries and desserts for your sweet tooth. 1400 Market Street, Chattanooga, TN 37402
Chattanooga Whiskey A slight jaunt from the Chattanooga Train station is the distillery. For less than $30/piece, take an hour to stop in and do a whiskey tasting. They pair each whiskey with scrumptious chocolate malt balls – it’s a heady and wonderful flavor combination. The staff there are informative and friendly. 1439 Market St, Chattanooga, TN 37402
Market Street Bridge is worth coming to over and over during your Chattanooga trip. Stop and take pictures in the middle. You will find at least one friendly soul to get your amazing wide screen shot – promise! 1 Walnut St, Chattanooga, TN 37403
These historical statues tell the story of courage despite opposition.
Right across from the art museum sits the Ed Johnson Memorial. While sobering, this memorial is an important piece to the Civil Rights movement. The city has done an excellent job telling the important story of Ed Johnson.
Falsely accused of raping a white woman, Ed Johnson was brutally killed. The US Supreme Court swiftly took action against his attackers in a landmark Supreme Court case that changed the course of American history and civil rights.
Evening | Downtown Chattanooga Dinner Options
We chose to have dinner at our rental. Wine, cheese and a salad to go was the perfect way to end this day.
If cooking is a no go on your vacation, we recommend a stop at Food Works or Tupelo Honey. Each has a large menu with cocktail and drink options. From tasty salads to hearty entrees, you can split a meal or sample several items.
Food Works 205 Manufacturers Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37405
Tupelo Honey 1110 Market St, Chattanooga, TN 37402
Hiking one of Chattanooga most popular trails - Sunset Rock
Day 3 | Hiking Lookout Mountain
After a quick breakfast at our rental, we headed out for a longer hike. Make sure to stop at the local Publix for hiking snacks. They have a variety of dried fruit, bars and powdered drinks to keep you fueled for the day.
Plan on around 4-5 hours of hiking if you want to avoid parking fees at Point Park. It’s a beautiful uphill climb with several connecting trails. The entire hike is a 21 mile loop.
You can choose to do this entire route or segment it depending on your time, hiking ability and desire to be out in nature.
Morning - Hike at Lookout Loop*
Mileage: 21.31 miles. Elevation Gain: 3,780 ft. Route: Out and Back
Trail note! We chose to start hiking from the front door of our rental. You can drive up Lookout Mountain and visit both spots — there is a free, small parking lot at Sunset Rock and a pay-to-enter National Park at Point Park.
Avoid $10 parking fee at Point Park and start at base to get to PP…beautiful hike and worth the extra time
Hike Details
Begin at Guild Trailhead just off Ochs highway between 42nd and 43rd streets. Keep on Guild Trail to Upper Truck.
You’ll pass Craven’s House, a historic Civil War site. Take 20 minutes to explore this area, reading the placards about Union and Confederate fighting in that location.
Continue to Point Park. Just outside the park gates are flushable toilets for no fee.
After a brief snack, take Craven’s House Trail to Bluff Trail. You’ll end up at Sunset Rock, one of the Chattanooga’s famous photographing sites. You just might see a bride or two taking pics in this iconic spot. There are also rock climbers in this area.
From Sunset Rock you’ll head take Gum Springs trail to Skyuka. This is your final trail until reaching Ruby Falls.
It is a doozy of a hike but worth every bit of time on your feet. If you want to tackle this loop, hop on our All Trails map. There are many twists and turns. However, the trails are well marked and you’ll pass a few hikers no matter which way you head.
*See recording in All Trails linked.
Lunch | Picnic Time
As the hike took almost 5 hours, we brought some favorite snacks with us. We love RX bars, dried fruit, Justin’s almond butter and apples. Of course NUUN tablets are a staple as well as a piece or two of dark chocolate.
Late Afternoon | Happy Hour at Easy Bistro and Bar
After getting back to our place around 3, we cleaned up and headed into town for some street walking and happy hour tasting.
With its inviting indoor/outdoor seating (those heat lamps work wonders on a chilly 45-degree evening), EASY stands out as a best thing to do in Chattanooga. The ambiance is spot-on for kicking off your evening in downtown Chattanooga. Famed for its extensive whiskey menu, it took Melody's husband, Matt, a solid 20 minutes to navigate the options.
Since it was Happy Hour, relaxation was the name of the game—paired with a few drinks and, of course, some delectable bar bites. The must-try cocktails? The Drake and the Despacito. And if you're a fan of whiskey neat, opt for a flight to sample some new pours.
EASY's chef puts a delightful spin on daily homemade pasta, and the tender and flavorful gnocchi had us contemplating seconds. However, we decided to leave room for dessert at The Ice Cream Show. When it comes to finding the best thing to do in Chattanooga, hitting up EASY isn't just a meal; it's a culinary adventure.
EASY Bistro and Bar 801 Chestnut St, Chattanooga, TN 37402 423-266-1121
Evening | Ice Cream Show
Following a delightful happy hour that seamlessly transitioned into dinner, we felt the need to stretch our legs and burn off some of those decadent bites.
Around the Walnut Street Bridge area, we stumbled upon the charming Ice Cream Show, a must-visit spot when visiting Chattanooga. This quirky ice cream shop boasts a unique machine that blends ice into liquid flavors, crafting one-of-a-kind creations. With their light and flavorful treats, we found ourselves returning here multiple times throughout the week. It's a sweet stop that adds a unique flavor to any Chattanooga visit!
Ice Cream Show 105 Walnut St, Chattanooga, TN 37403 423-702-5173
Whiskey barrels at Nearest Green DIstillery
Day 4 | Whiskey Tour
Breakfast at Frothy Monkey
With three distillery tours scheduled for the day, we knew caffeine was the way to begin well. Frothy Monkey, located in the historic Chattanooga Train station has one of the best oat milk lattes around.
Matt, Melody’s husband, gave the Americano and croissant two thumbs up.
Frothy Monkey 1400 Market St, Chattanooga, TN 37402
Distillery Tours
CoHH Pro Tip! Make sure to book your whiskey tours at least 2 weeks in advance.
Whiskey Distillery Tour #1: Jack Daniels Distillery
Ironically located in a prohibition county, this mammoth distillery should be your first stop. Jack Daniel’s may be the most famous of the Tennessee whiskeys, and this tour is chock full of cool information about Jack Daniel, the origins of Lincoln County Process, and the history of prohibition. There’s so much to learn here, we wouldn’t want to ruin it with any details!
The Jack Daniel’s Distillery tour does a spectacular job of explaining this entire process of making “Tennessee Whiskey” while walking through the massive compound where all Jack Daniel’s whiskey in the world is distilled. Each piece of the whiskey puzzle makes sense, ending in one of the finest tasting rooms we’ve seen.
A variety of tours are offered. We chose the Angels Share, $35/piece with three whiskey samples to try at the end. Total tour took 90 minutes.
Jack Daniels 133 Lynchburg Hwy, Lynchburg, TN 37352
CoHH Tip! There are not many places to eat in this little town. Bring along a packed lunch or snack.
Whiskey Distillery Tour #2: George Dickel
In 1844, German-born George made his way to the USA, landing a job at a local liquor store. With a fondness for Scottish whisky, he eventually ventured into crafting his own home brew. Convinced of his brew's excellence, he stuck to the traditional Scottish spelling. Prohibition posed a threat, but a legal loophole permitting the production of medicinal spirits saved the day.
This lesser-known distillery, nestled between Jack Daniels and Uncle Nearest, serves as the ideal midpoint for another tasting on your vacation guide Tennessee. If time is tight, opt for a quick stop and grab a sample tasting flight, ensuring you don't miss the flavors woven into George's remarkable liquor tale.
George Dickel 1950 Cascade Hollow Rd, Tullahoma, TN 37388
Whiskey Distillery Tour #3: Nearest Green Distillery
Fawn Weaver, the owner of Nearest Green Distillery is among just a handful of women in the whiskey business. Quite by accident, Weaver discovered the amazing story of Nearest Green. Let’s just say Nearest and Jack go way, way back.
Nearest Green Distillery is located in the heart of Tennessee horse country. The main entrance is a restored horse barn (for the Tennessee walking horses you’ll learn all about). Without spoiling the surprises, let’s just say there’s a LOT more than meets the eye on this tour.
The 90-minute tour will make you forget that you are at a distillery as it dives into the history of early 20th century America during the temperance and suffrage movements, and the unique backstory of Nearest Green and Jack Daniel. The Jack Daniel’s distillery is a global powerhouse of industry and process.
The vibe at Nearest Green is nearly opposite. Rolling meadows, converted stable buildings, the smell of cut grass, the sun hanging low in the sky. It’s a place you’d expect a corral of horses—not award winning whiskey and a killer story.
For the entire story, listen to Guy Raz’s interview of Fawn Weaver on the “How I Built This” podcast.
Make sure you set aside enough time to tour the property. We took the last tour of the day. What a treat to see the sunset on this innovative distillery. innovative minority own distillery.
Nearest Green Distillery 3125 US-231 North, Shelbyville, TN 37160
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS UNIQUE DISTILLERY LISTEN TO: How I Built This podcast with Fawn Weaver
Evening | Downtown Chattanooga, Tennessee
Savor the essence of Italian cuisine at Alleia, where rustic flavors and modern twists come together in a charming setting. At Alimentari, indulge in a culinary journey through inventive dishes and artisanal delights, all in the heart of Chattanooga. Elevate your dining experience at Bridgeman's Chophouse, where prime cuts and a sophisticated atmosphere create the perfect setting for a memorable meal.
Alleia 25 East Main Street 423-305-6690
Alimentari 801 Pine St 423-531-4653
Bridgeman’s Chophouse 107 West M.L.K. Blvd 423-643-1240
Day 5 | Hiking to Foster Falls
Morning | Coffee At Goodman Coffee Roasters
In Chattanooga, the unique aspect of being surrounded by two time zones, eastern and central, adds a touch of quirkiness to your vacation guide Tennessee. Navigating through this time warp can be advantageous, especially for planning hikes.
A helpful tip is to stay mindful of the time zone you're heading to for your hike, considering sunrise and sunset times to steer clear of finding yourself in complete darkness on the trails.
Goodman Coffee Roaster 3913 St Elmo Ave Suite B, Chattanooga, TN 37409
Hike Fiery Gizzard Trail to Foster Falls and Raven Trail
Distance: 16.43 miles Elevation Gain: 2,482 feet Route: Loop
Directions to Trail: A 50-minute drive from downtown takes you out to the South Cumberland State Park and Fiery Gizzard Recreational Area. The Fiery Gizzard trail itself is a little over eleven miles one-way,
For those visiting Chattanooga and seeking exciting things to do in Chattanooga this weekend, embark on a scenic adventure to Fiery Gizzard Trail at South Cumberland State Park. A mere 50-minute drive from downtown unveils this hidden gem, featuring an eleven-mile trail brimming with waterfalls, creek sightings, and vibrant fall colors.
Our chosen route began at Foster Falls Recreation area, winding north on Fiery Gizzard Trail to savor the stunning ridge views. The initial canyon-crossing miles transitioned into a flatter, forested section, offering a change of scenery. Opting for the Climber's Loop on the return journey, we marveled at climbers accessing the rock face and made our way to the captivating Foster Falls.
This trail, despite its length, ranks among the best in Chattanooga, offering a relatively easy meander with occasional strenuous sections.
TRAIL HIGHLIGHTS:
well-marked trails
convenient mileage markers every half-mile
wide paths for comfortable group hiking.
While the weekend allure drew more hikers, families, dogs, and rock climbers, the last mile near Foster Falls provided the perfect finale, bustling with the vibrant energy of fellow explorers.
Amaretto Sour at Unknown Caller
Happy Hour in Downtown Chattanooga
After a rewarding hiking adventure, appetites sparked our next quest for things to do in downtown Chattanooga. Our first stop? The enticing Unknown Caller, a hidden gem speakeasy open until the wee hours. Step into an eclectic space adorned with artwork, rows of liquor, and comfy bar seating, offering an intimate setting for both small and large parties.
As Matt, Melody's husband, delved into whiskey samples, Melody opted for a custom-made amaretto sour that arrived dressed to the nines. The perfect blend of ambiance, drinks, and personalized concoctions, Unknown Caller proved to be an ideal spot for post-hike relaxation and exploration of downtown Chattanooga offerings.
Hop 1: Unknown Caller 715 Cherry St, Chattanooga, TN 37402
Hop 2: Tony’s Pasta Shop and Trattoria 212 High St, Chattanooga, TN 37403
A beacon of popularity in downtown Chattanooga, Tennessee, Tony’s Pasta Shop proved its allure with a 2-hour wait on a weekday night – a testament to its undeniable charm. Undeterred, we ventured into an exquisite dining experience that unquestionably justified the wait.
Our culinary journey at Tony's involved crafting our own pasta dish, featuring fresh-made pasta with an array of sauce options spanning meat, seafood, or vegetarian choices. Accompanied by generous bread baskets offering divine, freshly baked delights, this meal emerged as one of our cherished favorites in Chattanooga.
Day 6 | Biking Downtown Chattanooga
STone Cup Coffee
Breakfast and coffee was in order for our day. First stop was at Stone Cup where we had the best espresso along with oat milk oats cooked to perfection. Yum!
Stone Cup 208 Frazier Avenue, Chattanooga, TN 37405
Seeing Downtown Chattanooga on Bike
We love exploring a city on foot. However Chattanooga has miles long bike trails as well as city bikes to rent. Purchase a day pass $8/each. We did learn a few tips.
You’ll receive a code to “check out” the bikes. On each bike near the handle bars is a little code box. This is where you enter the code given. It took us a hot minute to find this.
There are 42 stations around Chattanooga. You can download the app or just follow the map located at each rental stop.
Technically you can only have each bike for 60 minutes. We knew we’d be out all day so would dock and reset the code each 60 minutes to avoid late fees.
Bike Rental Information Link: Bicycle Transit Station
We took the Tennessee riverwalk paved trail, starting near Rembrandt’s coffee shop. There are many areas to explore off this main trail. If we’d had more time (and frankly, if our rear ends weren’t so sore), we’d done more. Our four hour day covered over 26 miles of biking.
*Note: part of the trail was South Chickamauga Creek Greenway, totally 9.4 mile.
Visiting Chattanooga Downtown
Make sure to book at least one sunset night at Whiskey Theif!
Winder Binder Bookstore 40 Frazier Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37405
We needed a walking break after all that biking. Winder is across Market bridge, immediately to your left. They sell new and used books. It’s a fun place to roam, picking up a book or two for your evening.
Tennessee Aquarium 1 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN 37402
Plan about 2 hours to explore. Busiest on weekends, enjoy hands on exhibits, fun facts and adorable animals.
Hunter Museum of Art 10 Bluff View Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37403
Consider taking an hour to peruse this museum’s art. Featuring pieces from Colonial days to the present, you’ll find it to be an enjoyable way to pass time.
Whiskey Thief | Best Downtown Views
When it comes to discovering the best things to do in Chattanooga, our go-to strategy is seeking recommendations from the locals. Time and again, the advice led us to a must-do experience – cocktail hour at Whiskey Thief during sunset.
And they were absolutely right. The evening unfolded with perfect balmy weather at 65 degrees, complemented by superbly crafted, cold, and strong cocktails. Yet, the true highlight was the breathtaking view. While the drinks may lean towards the pricier side, every penny spent was undeniably worthwhile for the unrivaled sunset spectacle.
Whiskey Thief 102 Walnut St, Chattanooga, TN 37403
Day 7 | Hike in Georgia
Coffee at Rembrandt’s Coffee House
In the Bluff View Art district, Rembrandt’s coffee game is strong. But so are their pastries and breads. So if bread, sugar and coffee is your thing, this is a must do stop. We split an early morning piece of Italian cake because vacation means breaking all the rules!
Rembrandt’s Coffee House 204 High St, Chattanooga, TN 37403
Hiking in Cloudland Canyon State Park | Georgia
Thirty minutes from Chattanooga in Georgia lies just over 3500 acres of hiking magic in Cloudland Canyon State Park. With 64 hiking trails to choose from, we had a hard time narrowing down what our day’s adventures would be. Check out all their trail information here.
CoHH Tip! This is a state park which means it’s not free. $5/vehicle. There are also many camping and overnight cabin options for extended time in the park. Next time we plan on spend at least one night here.
Plan an entire day to explore Cloudland Canyon State Park. We chose to hike the following trails:
Bear Creek Loop Trail: Bear Creek Loop Trail, a scenic trail offers a gentle meander through the park's landscapes, providing a perfect introduction to its natural wonders.
West Rim Trail: The West Rim Trail invites hikers to explore the captivating vistas of Cloudland Canyon. This trail offers breathtaking views of the canyon's rim, making it a must for those seeking both challenge and stunning scenery.
Waterfalls Trail (Cherokee and Hemlock Falls): This trail, featuring Cherokee and Hemlock Falls, promises a mesmerizing journey through lush greenery, with the soothing sound of cascading water as your companion.
Sitton’s Gulch Trail: Sitton’s Gulch Trail beckons adventurers to delve into the heart of Cloudland Canyon State Park. With its immersive canyon experience, diverse ecosystems, and meandering pathways, this trail promises an unforgettable exploration of the park's natural wonders.
Immersing ourselves in the wonders of Cloudland Canyon State Park, we dedicated an entire day—around 8 captivating hours in total—exploring its diverse trails and breathtaking landscapes on our vacation guide Tennessee. As our last day in Tennessee unfolded, the stunning beauty of this area left us in awe.
Note to future adventurers: consider adding an extra day to delve even deeper into the enchantment that Cloudland Canyon has to offer.
Trail #1 Bear Creek Loop Trail
Length: 7.3 mi Elevation gain: 1,279 ft Route type: Loop
Bear Creek Trail Map - How we hiked it!
Kicking off our Tennessee adventure guide, the hike begins at a roomy parking lot, complete with porta-potties for a quick pit stop. With well-marked, broad trails, we swiftly entered an enchanted forest, passing by cozy camping spots boasting impressive, oversized fire rings—a refreshing change from Colorado's usual minimalist setups.
You’ll pass by a large pond up the hill. We spotted a few hikers exercising their dogs in that large pasture area.
The trail itself is the rolling hill adventure. There is some descents and ascents but nothing too strenuous. Until you get to We turned around just shy of 4 miles, making it 8 miles roundtrip. All trails has the trail listed as 7.3 miles. Based on our mileage, I’d say it is closer to 9 miles total.
Trail Highlights:
Well marked trail signs
Shaded for all weather hiking (*We had a brief rainstorm and barely felt the water.)
Porta potties at trailhead
Large parking lot
Trail #2: Sitton’s Gulch Trail and Hemlock and Cherokee Falls Trail
Mileage: 5 miles Elevation Gain: 1,020 feet Route: Out and Back
Hemlock and Cherokee Falls: 3 miles Elevation gain: 900+ feet
*We did this hike in the afternoon after 10 miles on Bear Creek Loop Trail. It was nice to end with these incredible waterfall views.
Hiking Details:
Park at Cloudland Canyon State Park North Gate off 136. Sitton’s Gulch trail is a moderate hike. Rolling hills and some climbing is expected but overall, easy enough for the average hiker. The real work comes in when you arrive at the waterfalls trails.
Before you tackle both, take a minute to sit among the rocks, listening to the water. These rocky falls are nestled among towering trees and green foliage.
Both waterfalls are worth visiting. The trails are very well marked. You’ll run into a variety of hikers at this point, some barefoot because they didn’t realize what goes down 608 steps has to go back up. The main parking lot for the waterfalls trails is large and filled with people of all abilities.
West Rim Trail: We chose to take the 608 steps up to the West Rim Trail. Coming in just under 3 miles, this was a great way to cap the day with vista views of the park. It’s an easy trek,
Trail Highlights:
Waterfall views throughout the hike
Steels Stairs (608 to be exact from top to bottom)
Well shaded
Easily accessible and well marked.
Stunning overlook views from top of Waterfall trails.
CoHH Tip! Check the park’s website for limited cars and hiking throughout Covid. We hardly saw anyone the day we were there in November.
Downtown Chattanooga Dinner and Dessert
All that hiking made us ravanous. We were ready to eat. After heading home to look presentable, we headed into Chattanooga for our final night on the town.
Dinner at Urban Stack
12 W 13th St, Chattanooga, TN 37402
Matt loves his burgers and I’m a mix of vegan and vegetarian depending on the day. Urban Stack had the best bean burger along with a plate of sweet potato fries with a fantastic dipping sauce. We enjoyed every bit of that meal!
Cupcake Kitchen
500 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN 37402
We decided to walk to Cupcake Kitchen from Urban Stack. The walk takes you through the heart of downtown Chattanooga.
Cupcake Kitchen is a decadent delight. As soon as you walk in, your nose is assaulted with caramel, chocolate and sugar. It will take you some time to make a decision. We finally settled on a Death by Chocolate cupcake as well as some cake bites and fudge. The couple ahead of us in line got a variety dozen that look amazing.
When is the best time to visit Chattanooga?
Tennessee often is associated with country music. And you can listen to music year-round in Grand ‘old Opry central, Nashville. However, Tennessee’s hiking is spectacular in the fall. With temperatures ranging from low 30s to mid 60s, the trails are filled with brilliant colors. We went the first week of November.
How do you get to Chattanooga, Tennesse?
For those wondering how to get to Chattanooga, Tennessee, flying into Nashville is a convenient option, considering the smaller airport in Chattanooga. Upon arrival in Nashville, the pleasant surprise of live guitar music awaits you as you stroll toward baggage claim.
Opting for a rental car adds maximum flexibility for exploring nearby trails and restaurants, as we did. The drive from Nashville to Chattanooga spans approximately 2.5 hours, detailed further in the paragraph on day 1 of our journey.
Where to stay in Chattanooga?
We are fans of VRBO. Hotels are great for those quick weekend trips. However, a week-long stay in a hotel can get tiresome. We prefer having a kitchen to prepare food, keeping costs down. With many of our days spent hiking, we loaded up at the local Publix grocery store. Most of our breakfasts and lunches were prepared at our place. We chose to eat out one meal a day.
Make one of these four main neighborhoods home base for the week.
When considering where to stay in Chattanooga, here are some vibrant neighborhoods to explore:
Northshore:
Immerse yourself in the trendy and hip atmosphere of this neighborhood, featuring restaurants, gastropubs, and boutiques. While it may be one of the more expensive areas, the convenience of being within walking distance of the Walnut Street Bridge makes it a worthwhile choice.
St Elmo:
Nestled near Lookout Mountain, St Elmo is an established community ideal for those who love spontaneous hikes on nearby trails. Begin your exploration with the Guild Trail, a great option for your first-day hike.
Southside:
If you're drawn to art and charm, Southside is the perfect home base in Chattanooga. In recent years, it has evolved into a hub for outdoor sculptures, art studios, and the revitalized Chattanooga Choo Choo station.
Downtown:
For those who crave constant activity, day and night, Downtown is where all the action happens. Miller Plaza, an open-air hub with a variety of restaurants, and the renowned Tennessee Aquarium, are key highlights that make Downtown an exciting part of Chattanooga to call home during your stay.
NOTE: We chose to stay at St Elmo. We loved the proximity to the trails along with the easy-going neighborhood vibe. A reasonable 15 minute drive to downtown Chattanooga gave us flexibility in dining options downtown.
Time Zones
This part of Tennessee can be tricky. One minute you are operating on East Coast time. Drive a few miles and you’re right back in the Central Time Zone.
We loved the flexibility the time change gave us. We could start an hour later but end on time, with the sun still high in the sky. Parts of GA, including Cloudland Canyon State Park is on eastern time zone.
What to Bring
We are big fans of layers. If you head to TN in the fall, you’ll need them. Don’t forget your rain jacket. We needed it on most of our hiking days. Hat and mittens are also great for those early morning hours of hiking.
The restaurant and bar scene in Chattanooga is a mix of casual to dressy. We felt comfortable in jeans, dress shoes and a nice shirt/sweater.
We love to walk to where we eat, logging sometimes miles before finding the perfect place to stop. Bring comfortable dress shoes if you are similar. On day 2 we had to make an emergency Target run for comfortable but cute loafers for Melody after the previous day’s boot fiasco which resulted in multiple blisters.