The area surrounding Chattanooga is a virtual paradise for anyone who loves outdoor recreation. You'll find top-rated golf courses, tennis facilities, boating, fishing, camping, and rappelling-just to mention a few activities-right in your own back yard.

Visit the magnificent Cherokee National Forest; boat or fish in Chickamauga Lake; or hike through Reflection Riding, a 300-acre nature reserve. See Rock City. Explore Ruby Falls. Visit the world-famous Chattanooga Choo Choo. Ride the rails at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. There's plenty to do in and around "The Scenic City of the South."

Visit the website for the Chattanooga Sports Committee sponsored by Herman Walldorf & Co. to find out more about what's going on or about the new Davenport Field & Finley Stadium seating 30 thousand. Go Mocs!

The Tennessee Aquarium

The first freshwater nature center in America, the Tennessee Aquarium is dedicated to the understanding, conservation, and enjoyment of the Tennessee River.

Hours: Daily 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Extended closing hours until 8 p.m. May 1 through Labor Day on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Open every day except Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. For more information, call 423-265-0695.

Public Parks and Forests

Booker T. Washington State Park

On State Highway 58, the shores of Chickamauga Lake prove a perfect setting for boating and fishing. Facilities include a swimming pool, picnic area, and a group camp.

Cherokee National Forest

Hiking, camping, boating, and fishing are only a few of the many things to do in the majestic setting of the 605,000-acre Cherokee National Forest. Located near Cleveland, just northeast of Chattanooga, the fall foliage here rivals that of the Smokies.

Chester Frost Park

Located on the north side of Chickamauga Lake, this is one of Tennessee's finest county parks. Whether you like camping, sailing, bicycling, fishing, or group outings, the park offers many opportunities for recreation.

Chickamauga/Chattanooga National Military Parks

The Chickamauga battle field was the site of the bloodiest engagement in the Civil War. Therefore, it was among the first to be named a National Park. It contains miles of riding trails, monuments, and markers and a state-of-the-art video presentation.

Other military parks include Missionary Ridge, Orchard Knob, Cravens House located on the side of Lookout Mountain, and Point Park located on the top of Lookout Mountain. For further information about Chattanooga's Military Parks call 404-806-9214.

Harrison Bay State Park

On U.S. Highway 58 there are 39 miles of Chickamauga shoreline that make this park a water recreation paradise. It has boat docking facilities and wooded areas for tent and trailer camping with 260 sites.

Reflection Riding

Located at the foot of Lookout Mountain, this 300-acre natural wildlife and wildflower preserve is bordered by Lookout Creek which borders miles of National Park hiking and riding trails. For further information about Reflection Riding call 423-821-1160.

Tennessee River Gorge

This 26-mile canyon along the Tennessee River is the only large canyon bordering a mid-sized city in the United States. Enjoy the fall foliage and beautiful cliffs on the annual Fall Color Cruise through the Tennessee River Gorge. For more information about the Color Cruise call 423-266-0314.

Walnut Street Bridge

This 102 year old bridge spanning the Tennessee River in downtown Chattanooga has been remodeled into the largest pedestrian bridge in the world. It is enjoyed by strollers night and day and has occasionally hosted weddings, receptions, and dinners. The Walnut Street Bridge connects Ross's Landing—the site of the annual Riverbend Music Festival—with the Riverwalk.

Public Golf Courses