Nestled in the heart of Tennessee lies the charming city of Chattanooga, known for its breathtaking natural beauty and diverse range of outdoor activities.
With its proximity to the Tennessee River and surrounding mountains, the city offers endless opportunities for water-based adventures.
Whether you’re seeking a thrilling whitewater rafting experience, a leisurely paddleboard session, or a relaxing boat tour, Chattanooga has it all.
In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best water activities to do in Chattanooga, perfect for those looking to cool off on a hot summer day or simply enjoy the great outdoors.
So grab your sunscreen and sense of adventure, and let’s dive in!
Whitewater Rafting
Chattanooga is home to some of the best whitewater rafting in the country, thanks to the class III and IV rapids of the Ocoee River.
With numerous outfitters offering guided tours, even beginners can experience the rush of navigating through churning waters.
So why not gather your family and friends and book a rafting trip today?
Experience the thrill of navigating turbulent rapids as you journey down the region’s pristine rivers:
Ocoee River
As the site of the 1996 Olympic whitewater events, the Ocoee River boasts exciting class III-IV rapids that promise a thrilling adventure.
With experienced guides leading the way, you’ll navigate the river’s challenging rapids and experience the exhilaration of whitewater rafting.
Find a guided rafting trip here.
Hiwassee River
Ideal for families and beginners, the Hiwassee River offers a more gentle whitewater experience, with class I-II rapids that provide a fun introduction to the sport.
Surrounded by lush forests and scenic mountain views, a trip down the Hiwassee River is a perfect way to spend a spring day.
If rafting isn’t your speed, you can always go tubing down the river as well!
Paddleboarding and Kayaking
If whitewater rafting isn’t your speed, fear not, as Chattanooga offers a variety of calmer water adventures that allow you to explore the city’s beautiful waterways at a more leisurely pace.
With calm waters and stunning views of the surrounding mountains, the Tennessee River is the perfect place to explore on a paddleboard.
Rental equipment is available, and many companies offer guided tours to help you navigate the water.
For a more intimate and adventurous experience, kayaking is a great choice.
With its many tributaries and waterfalls, the Chattanooga area offers endless opportunities to explore by kayak.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, both paddleboarding and kayaking are great ways to get up close and personal with nature.
Tennessee River
The Tennessee River’s calm waters provide the perfect setting for a relaxing paddleboarding or kayaking excursion.
Rent a paddleboard or kayak from L2 Outside and embark on a serene journey down the river, enjoying the scenic views and abundant wildlife along the way.
North Chickamauga Creek
The North Chickamauga Creek offers a more secluded paddling experience, with verdant forests and rocky bluffs providing a stunning backdrop for your adventure.
Rent a paddleboard or kayak from Chickamauga Creek Conservancy and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of this hidden gem.
Boat Tours
For those seeking a more leisurely experience, hop on board one of Chattanooga’s many boat tours.
From historic riverboat rides to sunset cruises, there are options for all interests and budgets.
Don’t forget your camera, as the views from the water are truly breathtaking.
Southern Belle Riverboat
The Southern Belle Riverboat is one of Chattanooga’s most iconic attractions.
This grand paddle-wheel boat offers a variety of tours, from scenic daytime cruises to romantic dinner cruises.
The boat features multiple decks, a full-service bar, and live entertainment on select tours.
With breathtaking views of the Tennessee River and surrounding mountains, the Southern Belle Riverboat is a must-do activity for visitors to Chattanooga.
Chattanooga Ducks
For a unique tour experience, check out Chattanooga Ducks.
These amphibious vehicles take guests on a guided tour of Chattanooga’s historic downtown before splashing into the Tennessee River for a scenic river tour.
The tours are led by entertaining and knowledgeable guides who share fascinating stories about the city’s history and landmarks.
Chattanooga’s boat tours offer something for everyone. So don’t miss out on the chance to experience the beauty of the Tennessee River from a whole new perspective.
Fishing
For those who prefer a more laid-back activity, fishing in the Scenic City is a great way to relax and unwind.
The river is home to a variety of fish species, including catfish, bass, and crappie.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-timer, there are plenty of opportunities to cast a line and enjoy the serenity of the water!
Chickamauga Lake
Chickamauga Lake is one of the best fishing spots in the Chattanooga area, known for its abundance of bass, crappie, and catfish.
The lake covers over 36,000 acres and has numerous boat ramps and fishing piers for easy access. Anglers can fish from the shore, a boat, or even wade in the shallow areas.
Hiwassee River
The Hiwassee River is a popular destination for fly fishing, thanks to its clear, cold waters and diverse trout population.
The river is stocked regularly with rainbow and brown trout, and anglers can also catch smallmouth bass and other species.
The river is easily accessible from numerous public access points, including the Apalachia Powerhouse and the Reliance Fly and Tackle Shop.
Nickajack Lake
Nickajack Lake is another great fishing spot near Chattanooga, known for its large bass and catfish.
The lake covers over 10,000 acres and has several fishing piers, boat ramps, and marinas.
Anglers can also fish from the shore or wade in the shallow areas.
North Chickamauga Creek
North Chickamauga Creek is a popular spot for fly fishing and wading, thanks to its clear, cool waters and scenic surroundings.
The creek is stocked with rainbow and brown trout, and anglers can also catch bass, bream, and other species.
The creek is easily accessible from several public access points, including the Greenway Farm and the Hixson Pike Bridge.
Whether you’re an experienced angler or a first-timer, Chattanooga’s fishing spots offer a variety of opportunities to catch a big one.
So grab your gear and head out to one of these recommended spots for a day of relaxation and excitement on the water.
Planning Your Next Water Adventure In Chattanooga
Chattanooga, Tennessee, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wealth of activities that allow you to embrace the beauty of spring while engaging in exciting adventures.
From picturesque hiking and biking trails to thrilling rock climbing experiences and exhilarating whitewater rafting trips, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.
We hope this guide to four incredible outdoor adventures in Chattanooga has inspired you to step out and explore the natural wonders that await you in this stunning corner of the Southeast.
Lace up your hiking boots, grab your paddle, and get ready to embark on a memorable spring adventure in the Scenic City!
So pack your bags, book your stay at one of our many family-friendly homes, gather your loved ones, and set off to experience the delightful wonders of Chattanooga.
