Here are upcoming news and events from Outdoor Chattanooga:
Rapid Learning Kayak Skills Program January 10
Outdoor Chattanooga's Rapid Learning Kayak Skills Program will continue through the winter months at Hulsey Wellness Center at Southern Adventist University in Collegedale, TN. The next session is Tues., Jan. 10 from 7-9 p.m. There is a $2 pool use fee for participants, so be sure to bring cash to get in. Use our equipment or bring your own.
Boats can be dropped off behind the building, but everyone must enter through the main entrance. For more information, email Outdoor Chattanooga or call (423) 643-6888.
Outdoor Chattanooga's 2017 Winter Workshop Series
Classroom Based Outdoor Education
Free ~ All Ages Welcome
Thursdays, 6:00-7:30 PM
Outdoor Chattanooga in Coolidge Park
200 River Street, Chattanooga, TN 37405
Call 423.643.6888 or email Outdoor Chattanooga for more information.
Knots and Rescue Systems for Paddlers January 19
Do you know the ropes for river rescue and recovery? This workshop is open to all skill levels and is most appropriate for paddlers interested in learning basic knots, types of ropes, types of anchors and mechanical advantage systems used for river rescue situations. All attendees will get to throw a rope and learn how to re-coil quickly and efficiently for that potentially life-saving second throw! No reservation required. Cost: Free. Instructors: Mike Shillinger is an ACA Level 4 Swift Water Rescue Instructor and has been involved with the TVCC Safety Program since 2008 and Rachel Roman is working to complete her Swift Water Rescue Certification and also a member of the TVCC (Tennessee Valley Canoe Club).
How to Plan and Lead a Day Hike January 26
Proper planning and preparation is necessary anytime you venture into the great outdoors, especially if you are the one organizing the trip into nature. Learn the elements of preparing for and leading a day hike, thus helping to make your trip safer and more enjoyable for all involved. From an essential gear packing list to information about area trails along with trail maps and suggestions for beginner and seasoned hikers, you'll walk away with the knowledge and confidence to lead a group day hike. No reservation required. Cost: Free. Instructor: Zach Bopp, Recreation Specialist with Outdoor Chattanooga.
Critter Encounters: Backyard to Backwoods February 2
In honor of Groundhog Day, Outdoor Chattanooga and Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature Center offer an outdoor ethics workshop related to critters on the trail. Get close to several rescued forest animals to gain a greater understanding of these creatures and learn more on how to prevent problematic and dangerous encounters while visiting the forest to hike or camp. Being good stewards starts with understanding these essential prevention techniques to properly critter proof your campsite including how to hang a bear bag. The workshop is suitable for all ages. No reservations required. Cost: Free. Instructors: Terri Chapin is a Leave No Trace Master Educator and Program Coordinator for Outdoor Chattanooga, and Corey Hagen is Director of Education/Director of Wildlife Management at Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center
Navigate with Map and Compass February 9
We've become pretty dependent on smartphones for way finding, but what happens if the signal fails or the battery quits while you're out on the trail? Learn the basics of navigating using the "old school" map and compass. Maps and compasses are available for class. Apply your new skills on March 4 with a guided practice course, or visit Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature Center to participate in their orienteering course. Cost: Free. Instructor: Alan Archer, former U.S. Marine and orienteering expert, along with Zach Bopp, Recreation Specialist with Outdoor Chattanooga.
Bike Maintenance 101 February 16
Outdoor Chattanooga's bicycle guru, James Eubank, will lead participants through three different aspects of bicycle maintenance; fixing a flat tire, how to prevent future flats, quick ways to clean and lube your bicycle with minimal equipment, and how to tune your rear derailleur with ease. Participants can choose one or all three skills to learn. No previous bike knowledge is required, tools will be provided and questions will be encouraged. Hands and clothing might get dirty/greasy. Bring your bike for demonstration or use one of ours. No registration is required. Cost: Free. Instructor: James Eubank is a Certified League Cycling Instructor for League of American Bicyclists and Recreation Specialist for Outdoor Chattanooga.
How to Poop in the Woods February 23
At one point or another, knowing how to poop in the woods will come in handy. All too often "Charmin" blooms are viewed along the trail indicating that people do not know how to go properly in the outdoors. This class explains the Leave No Trace researched principles as best practices for waste disposal. All ages are welcome to come learn one of the most fundamental parts of being a good backcountry traveler; how to answer nature's call -while in nature. No reservation required. Cost: Free. Instructor: Terri Chapin is a Leave No Trace Master Educator and Program Coordinator for Outdoor Chattanooga.
More Outdoor Chattanooga Events
Community Events
Managing Invasive Species January 9
Tennessee Valley Wild Ones will host a free public meeting on Managing Invasive Species on Monday, January 9 at 6:00 pm at green|spaces. Pioneering invasion biologist Daniel Simberloff will discuss current issues related to regional invasive species. Invasion biology studies the patterns displayed by species introduced outside their geographic ranges, the impacts such species have on the communities they invade, and the means by which such invasions can be managed. Dr. Simberloff will highlight notable local invaders and the ecological impacts they pose, cover current efforts to stem their spread, and describe ways for the public to join this fight.
Lookout Wild Film Festival January 19-22
The Lookout Wild Film Festival (LWFF) returns to Chattanooga January 19-22. Come out and enjoy a full weekend of the best outdoor adventure and conservation films from around the world and right in our own backyard. The fifth annual LWFF will feature films on sentimental hikers, vanishing species, snow artistry, river surfing, trekking through deserts, geriatric big-river paddling, mountain biking in snow and much, much more!
Buy a ticket for a specific block of films or go all in with the weekend pass and enjoy the show! Come see why some people call LWFF the best weekend of the year in Chattanooga!
Schedule of events:
-Thursday, January 19 7:00 - 9:30 p.m.
Chattanooga Library 4th Floor
-Friday, January 20 7:00 - 10:30 p.m.
Memorial Auditorium Community Theater
Reception to follow
-Saturday, January 21
Memorial Auditorium Community Theater
Yoga and Time Lapse films at 1:00 p.m.
Matinee Films 2:00 - 5:30 p.m.
Primetime films 7:00 - 10:30 p.m.
-Sunday. January 22
Memorial Auditorium Community Theater
Yoga and Time Lapse films at 1:00 p.m.
Matinee Films 2:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Upcoming Events
January
7 Snake Creek Gap Time Trials
Lula Lake Open Gate Day
9 Learn to Ride a Bike Class
10 Rapid Learning Kayak Roll Class
SORBA Enterprise Night Ride
14-15 Sandhill Crane Festival
16 Chattanooga MLK Day of Service
19 Winter Workshop: Knots & Rescue Skills for Paddlers
19-22 Lookout Wild Film Festival
26 Winter Workshop: How to Plan & Lead a Day Hike
28 Lula Lake Open Gate Day
28-29 Wilderness First Aid Training
February
2 Winter Workshop: Critter Encounters
4 Lula Lake Open Gate Day
7 Rapid Learning Kayak Roll Class
9 Winter Workshop: Map & Compass
11 Wildlife Photography Workshop
Snake Creek Gap Time Trials
Save Water, Drink Wine
13 Learn to Ride a Bike Class
20 Bike Commuting 101
16 Winter Workshop: Bike Maintenance 101
23 Winter Workshop: How to Poop in the Woods
25 Lula Lake Open Gate Day
March
4 Map & Compass Navigation Field Class
Lula Lake Open Gate Day
4-5 Chattanooga Marathon
13 Learn to Ride a Bike Class
20 Bike Commuting 101
25 Lula Lake Open Gate Day
April
21-23 Horton 100
September
16-21 Bicycle Ride Across Tennessee (BRAT)