Waterfalls, Wilderness & Mountain Trails

A 26-mile network of mountain bike and hiking trails surrounding a pumped-storage reservoir on Raccoon Mountain west of Chattanooga — the TVA facility doubles as a public recreation area with trails ranging from beginner singletrack to technical descents. The ridge above the reservoir looks directly into the Tennessee River Gorge. Bike rentals available from Chattanooga outfitters; hikers can access the rim trail system without a bike.

Hike forested trails to a stunning 120-foot waterfall cascading into a pristine lake, with options to swim in cool mountain waters and explore cascades along Lula Creek.

Outpost of a Brazilian steakhouse chain offering skewered meats carved tableside, plus a salad bar.

Clamber through massive sandstone formations on Lookout Mountain's Enchanted Trail, then step out onto Lover's Leap for a sweeping 100-mile panorama across seven states on a clear morning. The dramatic rock garden and native wildflower plantings make this one of the South's most iconic overlooks.

Hike or drive America's oldest and largest military park, where 7-mile trail loops wind past hundreds of cannons and monuments through the site of one of the Civil War's bloodiest battles. The dense cedar forest and open fields give the landscape an eerie, timeless quality.

Stretch your legs along this 13-mile paved trail hugging the Tennessee River through downtown Chattanooga, with mountain views, pedestrian bridges, and easy access to waterfront parks. A relaxed cooldown after a morning of history before the drive home.