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| Meta Title | The Best Hikes in Chattanooga | Jordan Jetsets |
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| Boilerpipe Text | One of the many reasons I love visiting Chattanooga is its proximity to so many great trails. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll in nature, there are hikes for every ability level. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about the best hikes in Chattanooga, including difficulty level and the drive time from downtown. All of these trails are dog-friendly, but some might be more difficult for older/smaller pups, so plan accordingly.
This post contains affiliate links, which means I might make a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to you.
The best time to visit Chattanooga
Chattanooga has pretty mild temperatures year-round, so you really can’t go wrong! That being said, my favorite times to visit are spring and fall. They do receive a lot of rain in the winter months, but not much snow. Summers can get hot, which isn’t ideal for hiking. Here are the average high/low temps by season to help you decide when to visit Chattanooga:
Spring: March-May
75/55 F
Summer: June-August
90/70 F
Fall: September-November
72/52 F
Winter: December-February
55/35 F
Where to stay in Chattanooga
If you’re visiting from out of state, these are highly rated accommodations for any budget, or you can look at other options
here
. I prefer to stay downtown when I visit because of the accessibility to local restaurants & bars, which is always a bonus after a long day of hiking!
Budget
:
Staybridge Suites
If you’re trying to keep spending low but still want a good location downtown, this is a nice option. It’s a block off Main Street and within walking distance of restaurants and bars. They offer free breakfast, a pool, a fitness center, and are dog-friendly.
Midrange
:
Moxy Hotels
I’m a fan of Moxy Hotels and have had nothing but wonderful experiences with them. Their rooms are simple with trendy decorations, and I love that the lobby has a fun cocktail & coffee bar, as well as a large area to hang out that doesn’t feel like a hotel. Their Chattanooga location is downtown, making it easy to get around. They’re also dog-friendly and even serve pup cups at the coffee bar!
Luxury
:
Read House Hotel
If you’re down to splurge, this historic hotel is absolutely beautiful and has rave reviews. Along with their convenient location downtown, they offer an indoor pool, fitness center, high-end restaurant, speakeasy, and even a Starbucks! Read House Hotel has dog-friendly rooms, but requires a non-refundable pet fee.
Foster Falls
drive TIme: 45 Minutes
DIfficulty: Moderate
Foster Falls
is one of my favorite hikes in the Chattanooga area. The scenery is beautiful, and it’s easy to spend a whole day exploring here. One of the nicest things about visiting Foster Falls is the fact that it’s free and has ample parking, unlike a lot of other local trails. However, it is a popular spot -especially when the weather is at its best- so getting there early is ideal if you want to enjoy the falls without crowds.
*The time changes when you’re driving here from Chattanooga, so plan for that if you’re arriving early!
There are two trail options you can take to get to the falls:
Overlook Trail
-take a left at the overlook for this 0.3-mile trail that will take you directly down to the falls, but be warned it’s very rocky! I would avoid this route if it’s a wet day.
Fiery Gizzard Trail
-take a right at the overlook, following the sign that says Fiery Gizzard Trail. This will take you directly to the 1.7-mile loop, which you’ll stay on until you see a sign that says “Climbers Access 2,” which brings you down to the falls.
I chose to do the Fiery Gizzard Trail and really enjoyed it. Along this trail, you’ll cross over the stream that leads to the falls, get great viewpoints of the falls from above, and probably get to watch some rock climbers along the way. Once you make it down to the falls, you’ll probably be warm since it’s a moderately difficult hike, so bring a swimsuit & water shoes to go for a swim! When you’re ready to head out, you can walk the suspension bridge to Overlook Trail, which will take you back up to the parking lot.
Snooper’s Rock
Drive Time: 45 Minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Although it’s a bit of a drive from Chattanooga, the views at Snooper’s Rock are well worth the trip. Its location deep inside Prentice Cooper State Park will require driving on a rough gravel road, so expect lots of bumps on your way in. Once you enter the park it will take around 15 minutes to get there.
Before you head out, check their
website
because the park is closed on specific dates for hunting.
You have two options when it comes to getting to Snooper’s Rock. Option one is to drive directly to the parking lot, which is a 5-minute walk from the overlook. Just put Snooper’s Rock into Google Maps and it will take you straight there. I recommend going on a weekday to avoid crowds since the parking lot only fits 4-6 cars. I opted for this option so that I was able to check out another trail afterward.
Option two is to take the
Snooper’s Rock Trail
, which is 6 miles long, moderately challenging, and from what I read when researching, pretty overgrown.
North Chickamauga Creek
Drive TIme: 20 Minutes
DIfficulty: Easy to moderate
North Chickamauga Creek is easily my favorite hike in Chattanooga! I highly recommend spending an entire day here because it’s beautiful. To get there, put “North Chickamauga Creek Gorge Trailhead” into Google Maps, which will take you to the parking lot. The parking area isn’t huge, so get there early if possible.
There are so many places to swim, as well as a few blue holes to jump into, which is the highlight of this area. You’ll have to cross the creek to get to the blue holes, but it only takes around 20 minutes to get there from the trailhead. The trail itself is pretty long, so if you have time to explore further, it’s worth it! I’d say the best time to visit would be summer or early fall, when the creek is flowing.
related:
Best dog-friendly hikes in Sedona
Edward’s Point
Drive TIme: 15 Minutes
DIfficulty: Moderate
Edwards Point
is on the more difficult side, with a rocky trail that has a lot of inclines due to the elevation gain. It’s totally worth doing for the views of the Tennessee River Gorge though! Make sure you pack a lunch or snacks to enjoy once you get to the top. I’d recommend going earlier in the day because it would be tough coming back down around dusk or later. I’d skip this one in the heat of summer, but early fall (September) is a good time to go. This trail is located on Signal Mountain, so you’ll find many more trails nearby that you can check out after if you’re feeling up to it!
Cloudland Canyon State Park
Drive TIme: 30 Minutes
DIfficulty: MOderate
This park is actually located in Georgia, but since Chattanooga is right across the state line, it’s an easy drive to get there. The park charges a $5 parking fee, so bring cash or
buy a pass
before you go.
There are
multiple trails
you can do in the park, but my recommendation would be
Sitton’s Gulch Trail
. This 4.8-mile out-and-back trail takes you winding through the forest along the creek, making it a really peaceful hike. At the end, you’ll find multiple waterfalls and viewpoints that are great for a picnic. I recommend going in the spring (these photos were taken in early March) or summer because it can dry up by fall.
*There are no restrooms along this trail.
Glen Falls
Drive TIme: 15 Minutes
DIfficulty: Easy
Glen Falls
 is a fairly easy hike near Lookout Mountain with a few different waterfalls. This hike is great if you don’t have a ton of time since it’s on the shorter side at 2-ish miles and not far from downtown Chattanooga. Keep an eye out for stairs on the right after crossing the bridge, which will take you through a “door” in the rocks and lead you to the waterfall pictured above. *
The parking lot along the road by the trailhead is very small, and it’s on a steep curve in the road, so be very cautious when parking.
related:
Best fall hikes in Asheville, NC
General Hiking Tips
Download the
All Trails
app, which is great for any trail you’re visiting. You can find general information like difficulty or dog-friendliness, reviews from those who have hiked it (I usually find helpful tips in the reviews that you wouldn’t get elsewhere) plus a trail map that you can download. All the hikes on this post are linked to their All Trails page, which you can save on the app for future adventures!
Invest in a good pair of hiking shoes. I’ve had these
hiking boots
for years and love them! They were comfortable from the get-go and didn’t need breaking in. I also have
Chacos
for hikes that involve water. They’re lightweight enough that you can throw them in a backpack if you need both.
Bring plenty of water and snacks. I have this
Osprey backpack
, which has been perfect for any hikes I’ve taken over the last few years. It holds plenty of water and has two side pockets for bottles, which I use to hold Finn’s water. The main compartment is big enough to hold some snacks (I like to bring nuts, meat & cheese roll-ups, and fruit) and whatever else I might need without being too heavy.
Pack your sunscreen (
this has been my favorite for years
) and bug spray. I always apply SPF to my face and any other exposed skin before heading out on a hike, but if you’re out for a length of time, you’ll need to reapply. And of course, bug spray is great to have on hand because nothing can ruin a good hike like being swarmed.
Dog-Friendly Hiking Tips & Must-Haves
I love bringing my dog, Finn, on any adventure I can. He loves to explore as much as I do, but I always want to make sure he’s safe. These are my top tips on how to make hiking with your furry friends go smoothly:
Make sure your dog is physically capable of doing outdoor activities, or if you have a small pup, get aÂ
doggy backpack
 so they can enjoy it too! And remember, dogs need more rest than we do, so don’t plan tough outings multiple days in a row.
Be mindful of their paws. You can get booties orÂ
special wax
 to put on their paw pads to keep them from burning or blistering. This isn’t necessary for all situations, but do your research to see if it’s needed where you’re going.
Bring PLENTY of water for your dog. My dog drinks as much water as I do, so I always make sure to have enough for both of us. I use either a collapsible bowl orÂ
this bottle
 made specifically for dogs. I always bring some kibble and treats too, in case we’re out longer than expected. Finn also has aÂ
backpack
 that he can wear on hikes to carry his stuff. I always make sure it’s not too heavy for him though!
If the area requests that dogs be on a leash, please do so for their safety. If not, be sure your dog has excellent recall before letting them off-leash. If this isn’t realistic for your pup, consider a longer leash, which gives them a bit more range to explore. I usedÂ
this leash
 when Finn was young and still working on training.
Do your research! Before hiking any trail, check to see that it’s dog-friendly and manageable for your pup. AllTrails usually has this info, but if not, a quick Google search should do the trick.
Last but not least, always pick up after your dog – and yourself!
If you enjoyed this guide to the best hikes in Chattanooga. Be sure to check out my guide on
The Perfect Weekend in Chattanooga
for all the best places to eat and drink while you’re there! And if you’re looking for more activities (that you don’t have to plan yourself) check out these tours:
Happy Hiking! Save this post for your next adventure📌 |
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# The Best Hikes in Chattanooga: 7 Trails You Don’t Want to Miss
February 28, 2024
January 8, 2026
Updated on
January 8, 2026

One of the many reasons I love visiting Chattanooga is its proximity to so many great trails. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll in nature, there are hikes for every ability level. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about the best hikes in Chattanooga, including difficulty level and the drive time from downtown. All of these trails are dog-friendly, but some might be more difficult for older/smaller pups, so plan accordingly.
*This post contains affiliate links, which means I might make a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to you.*
Table of Contents
- [The best time to visit Chattanooga](https://jordanjetsets.com/best-hikes-chattanooga/#the-best-time-to-visit-chattanooga)
- [Where to stay in Chattanooga](https://jordanjetsets.com/best-hikes-chattanooga/#where-to-stay-in-chattanooga)
- [The best hikes in Chattanooga](https://jordanjetsets.com/best-hikes-chattanooga/#the-best-hikes-in-chattanooga)
- [Foster Falls](https://jordanjetsets.com/best-hikes-chattanooga/#foster-falls)
- [Snooper's Rock](https://jordanjetsets.com/best-hikes-chattanooga/#snoopers-rock)
- [North Chickamauga Creek](https://jordanjetsets.com/best-hikes-chattanooga/#north-chickamauga-creek)
- [Edward's Point](https://jordanjetsets.com/best-hikes-chattanooga/#edwards-point)
- [Cloudland Canyon State Park](https://jordanjetsets.com/best-hikes-chattanooga/#cloudland-canyon-state-park)
- [Glen Falls](https://jordanjetsets.com/best-hikes-chattanooga/#glen-falls)
- [Big Soddy Creek Gulf](https://jordanjetsets.com/best-hikes-chattanooga/#big-soddy-creek-gulf)
- [General Hiking Tips](https://jordanjetsets.com/best-hikes-chattanooga/#general-hiking-tips)
- [Dog-Friendly Hiking Tips & Must-Haves](https://jordanjetsets.com/best-hikes-chattanooga/#dogfriendly-hiking-tips--musthaves)
## The best time to visit Chattanooga
Chattanooga has pretty mild temperatures year-round, so you really can’t go wrong! That being said, my favorite times to visit are spring and fall. They do receive a lot of rain in the winter months, but not much snow. Summers can get hot, which isn’t ideal for hiking. Here are the average high/low temps by season to help you decide when to visit Chattanooga:
| | |
|---|---|
| Spring: March-May | 75/55 F |
| Summer: June-August | 90/70 F |
| Fall: September-November | 72/52 F |
| Winter: December-February | 55/35 F |
## Where to stay in Chattanooga
If you’re visiting from out of state, these are highly rated accommodations for any budget, or you can look at other options [**here**](https://tripadvisor.tp.st/S6rJB2ca). I prefer to stay downtown when I visit because of the accessibility to local restaurants & bars, which is always a bonus after a long day of hiking\!
**Budget** : [**Staybridge Suites**](https://booking.tp.st/u8xv6QvU) If you’re trying to keep spending low but still want a good location downtown, this is a nice option. It’s a block off Main Street and within walking distance of restaurants and bars. They offer free breakfast, a pool, a fitness center, and are dog-friendly.
**Midrange** : **[Moxy Hotels](https://booking.tp.st/hrc6QPrt)** I’m a fan of Moxy Hotels and have had nothing but wonderful experiences with them. Their rooms are simple with trendy decorations, and I love that the lobby has a fun cocktail & coffee bar, as well as a large area to hang out that doesn’t feel like a hotel. Their Chattanooga location is downtown, making it easy to get around. They’re also dog-friendly and even serve pup cups at the coffee bar\!
**Luxury** : **[Read House Hotel](https://booking.tp.st/62OQgxUD)** If you’re down to splurge, this historic hotel is absolutely beautiful and has rave reviews. Along with their convenient location downtown, they offer an indoor pool, fitness center, high-end restaurant, speakeasy, and even a Starbucks! Read House Hotel has dog-friendly rooms, but requires a non-refundable pet fee.
## The best hikes in Chattanooga
### Foster Falls

##### drive TIme: 45 Minutes
##### DIfficulty: Moderate
[**Foster Falls**](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/tennessee/climbers-loop-trail) is one of my favorite hikes in the Chattanooga area. The scenery is beautiful, and it’s easy to spend a whole day exploring here. One of the nicest things about visiting Foster Falls is the fact that it’s free and has ample parking, unlike a lot of other local trails. However, it is a popular spot -especially when the weather is at its best- so getting there early is ideal if you want to enjoy the falls without crowds. **\*The time changes when you’re driving here from Chattanooga, so plan for that if you’re arriving early\!**
- There are two trail options you can take to get to the falls:
- **[Overlook Trail](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/tennessee/foster-falls-overlook-trail)** \-take a left at the overlook for this 0.3-mile trail that will take you directly down to the falls, but be warned it’s very rocky! I would avoid this route if it’s a wet day.
- [**Fiery Gizzard Trail**](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/tennessee/climbers-loop-trail) -take a right at the overlook, following the sign that says Fiery Gizzard Trail. This will take you directly to the 1.7-mile loop, which you’ll stay on until you see a sign that says “Climbers Access 2,” which brings you down to the falls.
I chose to do the Fiery Gizzard Trail and really enjoyed it. Along this trail, you’ll cross over the stream that leads to the falls, get great viewpoints of the falls from above, and probably get to watch some rock climbers along the way. Once you make it down to the falls, you’ll probably be warm since it’s a moderately difficult hike, so bring a swimsuit & water shoes to go for a swim! When you’re ready to head out, you can walk the suspension bridge to Overlook Trail, which will take you back up to the parking lot.



### Snooper’s Rock

##### Drive Time: 45 Minutes
##### Difficulty: Easy
Although it’s a bit of a drive from Chattanooga, the views at Snooper’s Rock are well worth the trip. Its location deep inside Prentice Cooper State Park will require driving on a rough gravel road, so expect lots of bumps on your way in. Once you enter the park it will take around 15 minutes to get there. **Before you head out, check their [website](https://www.tn.gov/agriculture/forests/state-forests/prentice-cooper.html) because the park is closed on specific dates for hunting.**
You have two options when it comes to getting to Snooper’s Rock. Option one is to drive directly to the parking lot, which is a 5-minute walk from the overlook. Just put Snooper’s Rock into Google Maps and it will take you straight there. I recommend going on a weekday to avoid crowds since the parking lot only fits 4-6 cars. I opted for this option so that I was able to check out another trail afterward.
Option two is to take the [**Snooper’s Rock Trail**](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/tennessee/snoopers-rock-trail), which is 6 miles long, moderately challenging, and from what I read when researching, pretty overgrown.


### North Chickamauga Creek

##### Drive TIme: 20 Minutes
##### DIfficulty: Easy to moderate
North Chickamauga Creek is easily my favorite hike in Chattanooga! I highly recommend spending an entire day here because it’s beautiful. To get there, put “North Chickamauga Creek Gorge Trailhead” into Google Maps, which will take you to the parking lot. The parking area isn’t huge, so get there early if possible.
There are so many places to swim, as well as a few blue holes to jump into, which is the highlight of this area. You’ll have to cross the creek to get to the blue holes, but it only takes around 20 minutes to get there from the trailhead. The trail itself is pretty long, so if you have time to explore further, it’s worth it! I’d say the best time to visit would be summer or early fall, when the creek is flowing.


##### related: **[Best dog-friendly hikes in Sedona](https://jordanjetsets.com/dog-friendly-hikes-sedona/)**
### Edward’s Point

##### Drive TIme: 15 Minutes
##### DIfficulty: Moderate
[**Edwards Point**](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/tennessee/edwards-point-trail--2) is on the more difficult side, with a rocky trail that has a lot of inclines due to the elevation gain. It’s totally worth doing for the views of the Tennessee River Gorge though! Make sure you pack a lunch or snacks to enjoy once you get to the top. I’d recommend going earlier in the day because it would be tough coming back down around dusk or later. I’d skip this one in the heat of summer, but early fall (September) is a good time to go. This trail is located on Signal Mountain, so you’ll find many more trails nearby that you can check out after if you’re feeling up to it\!
### Cloudland Canyon State Park

##### Drive TIme: 30 Minutes
##### DIfficulty: MOderate
This park is actually located in Georgia, but since Chattanooga is right across the state line, it’s an easy drive to get there. The park charges a \$5 parking fee, so bring cash or **[buy a pass](https://gastateparks.reserveamerica.com/posProducts.do?contractCode=GA&tti=Store)** before you go.
There are [**multiple trails**](https://www.alltrails.com/parks/us/georgia/cloudland-canyon-state-park) you can do in the park, but my recommendation would be [**Sitton’s Gulch Trail**](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/georgia/sittons-gulch-trail). This 4.8-mile out-and-back trail takes you winding through the forest along the creek, making it a really peaceful hike. At the end, you’ll find multiple waterfalls and viewpoints that are great for a picnic. I recommend going in the spring (these photos were taken in early March) or summer because it can dry up by fall.
*\*There are no restrooms along this trail.*


### Glen Falls

##### Drive TIme: 15 Minutes
##### DIfficulty: Easy
[**Glen Falls**](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/tennessee/glen-falls-trail) is a fairly easy hike near Lookout Mountain with a few different waterfalls. This hike is great if you don’t have a ton of time since it’s on the shorter side at 2-ish miles and not far from downtown Chattanooga. Keep an eye out for stairs on the right after crossing the bridge, which will take you through a “door” in the rocks and lead you to the waterfall pictured above. \**The parking lot along the road by the trailhead is very small, and it’s on a steep curve in the road, so be very cautious when parking.*
##### related: [**Best fall hikes in Asheville, NC**](https://jordanjetsets.com/best-fall-hikes-in-asheville-nc/)
### Big Soddy Creek Gulf

##### Drive TIme: 25 Minutes
##### DIfficulty: Easy
[**Big Soddy**](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/tennessee/big-soddy-creek-gulf) is a very easy, family-friendly hike with several swimming holes. The full trail is 3.5 miles, with the first 1.5 miles being a flat, gravel path until you get to the creek. Depending on the time of year, it can be difficult to cross the creek and continue on the trail, so you may want to check the latest All Trails reviews to get the status. The swimming holes and a small waterfall are all accessible on the first part of the trail.


## General Hiking Tips
- Download the [**All Trails**](https://www.alltrails.com/) app, which is great for any trail you’re visiting. You can find general information like difficulty or dog-friendliness, reviews from those who have hiked it (I usually find helpful tips in the reviews that you wouldn’t get elsewhere) plus a trail map that you can download. All the hikes on this post are linked to their All Trails page, which you can save on the app for future adventures\!
- Invest in a good pair of hiking shoes. I’ve had these **[hiking boots](https://amzn.to/3DuNIMY)** for years and love them! They were comfortable from the get-go and didn’t need breaking in. I also have **[Chacos](https://amzn.to/3R41Y28)** for hikes that involve water. They’re lightweight enough that you can throw them in a backpack if you need both.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks. I have this [**Osprey backpack**](https://amzn.to/4m86gDu), which has been perfect for any hikes I’ve taken over the last few years. It holds plenty of water and has two side pockets for bottles, which I use to hold Finn’s water. The main compartment is big enough to hold some snacks (I like to bring nuts, meat & cheese roll-ups, and fruit) and whatever else I might need without being too heavy.
- Pack your sunscreen (**[this has been my favorite for years](https://amzn.to/3FeyU5t)**) and bug spray. I always apply SPF to my face and any other exposed skin before heading out on a hike, but if you’re out for a length of time, you’ll need to reapply. And of course, bug spray is great to have on hand because nothing can ruin a good hike like being swarmed.
## Dog-Friendly Hiking Tips & Must-Haves
I love bringing my dog, Finn, on any adventure I can. He loves to explore as much as I do, but I always want to make sure he’s safe. These are my top tips on how to make hiking with your furry friends go smoothly:
- Make sure your dog is physically capable of doing outdoor activities, or if you have a small pup, get a **[doggy backpack](https://amzn.to/4huC1nb)** so they can enjoy it too! And remember, dogs need more rest than we do, so don’t plan tough outings multiple days in a row.
- Be mindful of their paws. You can get booties or **[special wax](https://amzn.to/3DtybwX)** to put on their paw pads to keep them from burning or blistering. This isn’t necessary for all situations, but do your research to see if it’s needed where you’re going.
- Bring PLENTY of water for your dog. My dog drinks as much water as I do, so I always make sure to have enough for both of us. I use either a collapsible bowl or **[this bottle](https://amzn.to/4huAMo1)** made specifically for dogs. I always bring some kibble and treats too, in case we’re out longer than expected. Finn also has a **[backpack](https://amzn.to/4kInJCg)** that he can wear on hikes to carry his stuff. I always make sure it’s not too heavy for him though\!
- If the area requests that dogs be on a leash, please do so for their safety. If not, be sure your dog has excellent recall before letting them off-leash. If this isn’t realistic for your pup, consider a longer leash, which gives them a bit more range to explore. I used **[this leash](https://amzn.to/3FewiEH)** when Finn was young and still working on training.
- Do your research! Before hiking any trail, check to see that it’s dog-friendly and manageable for your pup. AllTrails usually has this info, but if not, a quick Google search should do the trick.
- Last but not least, always pick up after your dog – and yourself\!
If you enjoyed this guide to the best hikes in Chattanooga. Be sure to check out my guide on [**The Perfect Weekend in Chattanooga**](https://jordanjetsets.com/weekend-in-chattanooga/) for all the best places to eat and drink while you’re there! And if you’re looking for more activities (that you don’t have to plan yourself) check out these tours:
#### Happy Hiking! Save this post for your next adventure📌
- 
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## Hi! I’m Jordan
A travel addict who loves nothing more than planning my next adventure – and sharing my tips with you! If you want to create memories in some of the best places on Earth without breaking the bank, you’ve come to the right place. From amazing hikes in the U.S. to historic cities in Europe and relaxing beaches in the Caribbean, here you’ll find guides to my favorite destinations to help you plan your next trip! [**{LEARN MORE}**](https://jordanjetsets.com/about/)
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| Readable Markdown | 
One of the many reasons I love visiting Chattanooga is its proximity to so many great trails. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll in nature, there are hikes for every ability level. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about the best hikes in Chattanooga, including difficulty level and the drive time from downtown. All of these trails are dog-friendly, but some might be more difficult for older/smaller pups, so plan accordingly.
*This post contains affiliate links, which means I might make a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to you.*
## The best time to visit Chattanooga
Chattanooga has pretty mild temperatures year-round, so you really can’t go wrong! That being said, my favorite times to visit are spring and fall. They do receive a lot of rain in the winter months, but not much snow. Summers can get hot, which isn’t ideal for hiking. Here are the average high/low temps by season to help you decide when to visit Chattanooga:
| | |
|---|---|
| Spring: March-May | 75/55 F |
| Summer: June-August | 90/70 F |
| Fall: September-November | 72/52 F |
| Winter: December-February | 55/35 F |
## Where to stay in Chattanooga
If you’re visiting from out of state, these are highly rated accommodations for any budget, or you can look at other options [**here**](https://tripadvisor.tp.st/S6rJB2ca). I prefer to stay downtown when I visit because of the accessibility to local restaurants & bars, which is always a bonus after a long day of hiking\!
**Budget** : [**Staybridge Suites**](https://booking.tp.st/u8xv6QvU) If you’re trying to keep spending low but still want a good location downtown, this is a nice option. It’s a block off Main Street and within walking distance of restaurants and bars. They offer free breakfast, a pool, a fitness center, and are dog-friendly.
**Midrange** : **[Moxy Hotels](https://booking.tp.st/hrc6QPrt)** I’m a fan of Moxy Hotels and have had nothing but wonderful experiences with them. Their rooms are simple with trendy decorations, and I love that the lobby has a fun cocktail & coffee bar, as well as a large area to hang out that doesn’t feel like a hotel. Their Chattanooga location is downtown, making it easy to get around. They’re also dog-friendly and even serve pup cups at the coffee bar\!
**Luxury** : **[Read House Hotel](https://booking.tp.st/62OQgxUD)** If you’re down to splurge, this historic hotel is absolutely beautiful and has rave reviews. Along with their convenient location downtown, they offer an indoor pool, fitness center, high-end restaurant, speakeasy, and even a Starbucks! Read House Hotel has dog-friendly rooms, but requires a non-refundable pet fee.
### Foster Falls

##### drive TIme: 45 Minutes
##### DIfficulty: Moderate
[**Foster Falls**](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/tennessee/climbers-loop-trail) is one of my favorite hikes in the Chattanooga area. The scenery is beautiful, and it’s easy to spend a whole day exploring here. One of the nicest things about visiting Foster Falls is the fact that it’s free and has ample parking, unlike a lot of other local trails. However, it is a popular spot -especially when the weather is at its best- so getting there early is ideal if you want to enjoy the falls without crowds. **\*The time changes when you’re driving here from Chattanooga, so plan for that if you’re arriving early\!**
- There are two trail options you can take to get to the falls:
- **[Overlook Trail](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/tennessee/foster-falls-overlook-trail)** \-take a left at the overlook for this 0.3-mile trail that will take you directly down to the falls, but be warned it’s very rocky! I would avoid this route if it’s a wet day.
- [**Fiery Gizzard Trail**](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/tennessee/climbers-loop-trail) -take a right at the overlook, following the sign that says Fiery Gizzard Trail. This will take you directly to the 1.7-mile loop, which you’ll stay on until you see a sign that says “Climbers Access 2,” which brings you down to the falls.
I chose to do the Fiery Gizzard Trail and really enjoyed it. Along this trail, you’ll cross over the stream that leads to the falls, get great viewpoints of the falls from above, and probably get to watch some rock climbers along the way. Once you make it down to the falls, you’ll probably be warm since it’s a moderately difficult hike, so bring a swimsuit & water shoes to go for a swim! When you’re ready to head out, you can walk the suspension bridge to Overlook Trail, which will take you back up to the parking lot.



### Snooper’s Rock

##### Drive Time: 45 Minutes
##### Difficulty: Easy
Although it’s a bit of a drive from Chattanooga, the views at Snooper’s Rock are well worth the trip. Its location deep inside Prentice Cooper State Park will require driving on a rough gravel road, so expect lots of bumps on your way in. Once you enter the park it will take around 15 minutes to get there. **Before you head out, check their [website](https://www.tn.gov/agriculture/forests/state-forests/prentice-cooper.html) because the park is closed on specific dates for hunting.**
You have two options when it comes to getting to Snooper’s Rock. Option one is to drive directly to the parking lot, which is a 5-minute walk from the overlook. Just put Snooper’s Rock into Google Maps and it will take you straight there. I recommend going on a weekday to avoid crowds since the parking lot only fits 4-6 cars. I opted for this option so that I was able to check out another trail afterward.
Option two is to take the [**Snooper’s Rock Trail**](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/tennessee/snoopers-rock-trail), which is 6 miles long, moderately challenging, and from what I read when researching, pretty overgrown.


### North Chickamauga Creek

##### Drive TIme: 20 Minutes
##### DIfficulty: Easy to moderate
North Chickamauga Creek is easily my favorite hike in Chattanooga! I highly recommend spending an entire day here because it’s beautiful. To get there, put “North Chickamauga Creek Gorge Trailhead” into Google Maps, which will take you to the parking lot. The parking area isn’t huge, so get there early if possible.
There are so many places to swim, as well as a few blue holes to jump into, which is the highlight of this area. You’ll have to cross the creek to get to the blue holes, but it only takes around 20 minutes to get there from the trailhead. The trail itself is pretty long, so if you have time to explore further, it’s worth it! I’d say the best time to visit would be summer or early fall, when the creek is flowing.


##### related: **[Best dog-friendly hikes in Sedona](https://jordanjetsets.com/dog-friendly-hikes-sedona/)**
### Edward’s Point

##### Drive TIme: 15 Minutes
##### DIfficulty: Moderate
[**Edwards Point**](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/tennessee/edwards-point-trail--2) is on the more difficult side, with a rocky trail that has a lot of inclines due to the elevation gain. It’s totally worth doing for the views of the Tennessee River Gorge though! Make sure you pack a lunch or snacks to enjoy once you get to the top. I’d recommend going earlier in the day because it would be tough coming back down around dusk or later. I’d skip this one in the heat of summer, but early fall (September) is a good time to go. This trail is located on Signal Mountain, so you’ll find many more trails nearby that you can check out after if you’re feeling up to it\!
### Cloudland Canyon State Park

##### Drive TIme: 30 Minutes
##### DIfficulty: MOderate
This park is actually located in Georgia, but since Chattanooga is right across the state line, it’s an easy drive to get there. The park charges a \$5 parking fee, so bring cash or **[buy a pass](https://gastateparks.reserveamerica.com/posProducts.do?contractCode=GA&tti=Store)** before you go.
There are [**multiple trails**](https://www.alltrails.com/parks/us/georgia/cloudland-canyon-state-park) you can do in the park, but my recommendation would be [**Sitton’s Gulch Trail**](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/georgia/sittons-gulch-trail). This 4.8-mile out-and-back trail takes you winding through the forest along the creek, making it a really peaceful hike. At the end, you’ll find multiple waterfalls and viewpoints that are great for a picnic. I recommend going in the spring (these photos were taken in early March) or summer because it can dry up by fall.
*\*There are no restrooms along this trail.*


### Glen Falls

##### Drive TIme: 15 Minutes
##### DIfficulty: Easy
[**Glen Falls**](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/tennessee/glen-falls-trail) is a fairly easy hike near Lookout Mountain with a few different waterfalls. This hike is great if you don’t have a ton of time since it’s on the shorter side at 2-ish miles and not far from downtown Chattanooga. Keep an eye out for stairs on the right after crossing the bridge, which will take you through a “door” in the rocks and lead you to the waterfall pictured above. \**The parking lot along the road by the trailhead is very small, and it’s on a steep curve in the road, so be very cautious when parking.*
##### related: [**Best fall hikes in Asheville, NC**](https://jordanjetsets.com/best-fall-hikes-in-asheville-nc/)
## General Hiking Tips
- Download the [**All Trails**](https://www.alltrails.com/) app, which is great for any trail you’re visiting. You can find general information like difficulty or dog-friendliness, reviews from those who have hiked it (I usually find helpful tips in the reviews that you wouldn’t get elsewhere) plus a trail map that you can download. All the hikes on this post are linked to their All Trails page, which you can save on the app for future adventures\!
- Invest in a good pair of hiking shoes. I’ve had these **[hiking boots](https://amzn.to/3DuNIMY)** for years and love them! They were comfortable from the get-go and didn’t need breaking in. I also have **[Chacos](https://amzn.to/3R41Y28)** for hikes that involve water. They’re lightweight enough that you can throw them in a backpack if you need both.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks. I have this [**Osprey backpack**](https://amzn.to/4m86gDu), which has been perfect for any hikes I’ve taken over the last few years. It holds plenty of water and has two side pockets for bottles, which I use to hold Finn’s water. The main compartment is big enough to hold some snacks (I like to bring nuts, meat & cheese roll-ups, and fruit) and whatever else I might need without being too heavy.
- Pack your sunscreen (**[this has been my favorite for years](https://amzn.to/3FeyU5t)**) and bug spray. I always apply SPF to my face and any other exposed skin before heading out on a hike, but if you’re out for a length of time, you’ll need to reapply. And of course, bug spray is great to have on hand because nothing can ruin a good hike like being swarmed.
## Dog-Friendly Hiking Tips & Must-Haves
I love bringing my dog, Finn, on any adventure I can. He loves to explore as much as I do, but I always want to make sure he’s safe. These are my top tips on how to make hiking with your furry friends go smoothly:
- Make sure your dog is physically capable of doing outdoor activities, or if you have a small pup, get a **[doggy backpack](https://amzn.to/4huC1nb)** so they can enjoy it too! And remember, dogs need more rest than we do, so don’t plan tough outings multiple days in a row.
- Be mindful of their paws. You can get booties or **[special wax](https://amzn.to/3DtybwX)** to put on their paw pads to keep them from burning or blistering. This isn’t necessary for all situations, but do your research to see if it’s needed where you’re going.
- Bring PLENTY of water for your dog. My dog drinks as much water as I do, so I always make sure to have enough for both of us. I use either a collapsible bowl or **[this bottle](https://amzn.to/4huAMo1)** made specifically for dogs. I always bring some kibble and treats too, in case we’re out longer than expected. Finn also has a **[backpack](https://amzn.to/4kInJCg)** that he can wear on hikes to carry his stuff. I always make sure it’s not too heavy for him though\!
- If the area requests that dogs be on a leash, please do so for their safety. If not, be sure your dog has excellent recall before letting them off-leash. If this isn’t realistic for your pup, consider a longer leash, which gives them a bit more range to explore. I used **[this leash](https://amzn.to/3FewiEH)** when Finn was young and still working on training.
- Do your research! Before hiking any trail, check to see that it’s dog-friendly and manageable for your pup. AllTrails usually has this info, but if not, a quick Google search should do the trick.
- Last but not least, always pick up after your dog – and yourself\!
If you enjoyed this guide to the best hikes in Chattanooga. Be sure to check out my guide on [**The Perfect Weekend in Chattanooga**](https://jordanjetsets.com/weekend-in-chattanooga/) for all the best places to eat and drink while you’re there! And if you’re looking for more activities (that you don’t have to plan yourself) check out these tours:
#### Happy Hiking! Save this post for your next adventure📌
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