Here are upcoming news and events from Outdoor Chattanoga:
Intro to Mountain Biking
Thursday, June 7 | 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Leave the asphalt behind and get in gear for the trails! Learn the basics of mountain biking from Outdoor Chattanooga's experienced instructors in an open field setting that's formatted to fit your learning style. Gain the knowledge, skills and confidence to get out there riding on your own! No experience necessary. Ages 10+. Cost: $10. Mountain bikes, helmets, and instruction provided.
Reservations required in advance. Call 423-643-6888 to register and learn more.
Guided Hike
Friday, June 8 | 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Join Outdoor Chattanooga for a guided hike on the Cumberland Trail. We'll lead registered participants on a moderately strenuous 4-mile hike to explore a unique section of the CT. We'll provide guides and a shuttle for the one-way trek so you can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature without the worry of getting lost. Call us at 423-643-6888 to register & receive details!
Battlefield Bike Tour
Saturday, June 16 | 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Enjoy a leisurely-paced bicycle tour on the Chickamauga Battlefield with the National Park Service and Outdoor Chattanooga. Bicycles are available at no charge with reservation; contact the Visitor Center at (706) 866-9241 to reserve. Or bring your own. Ages 6+ (no training wheels please). Cost: Free. Helmets required for all riders.
Creek Snorkel
Sunday, June 17 | 9:00 - 11:30 a.m.
North Chickamauga Creek Conservancy and Outdoor Chattanooga will co-lead a rock hop on the creek with the opportunity to snorkel in the deeper pools. Bring your own mask and snorkel or goggles, we will provide PFD's. Free for ages 5 and up. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED in advance/ limited participation.
Mountain to Town
Monday, June 18 | 9:00 - 12:30 p.m.
Join Outdoor Chattanooga for a guided and all-inclusive downhill bike adventure from the top of Lookout Mountain to downtown Chattanooga. Enjoy scenic views of the city while cruising down the Guild Trail until it connects with the Tennessee Riverwalk and follows the shores of the TN river all the way back into town. Cost: $25 per person includes transportation, guide staff, ride support, bike and helmet. Use your own bike or borrow one at no additional cost. Ride time is approximately 2 hours. Appropriate for ages 12+ with an adult. Reservations required in advance as space is limited. For more information and to make a reservation call (423) 643-6888.
Family Funday at Greenway
Sunday, June 24 | 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Pack a picnic and load up the whole family to enjoy a full day of activity at Greenway Farms City Park. Outdoor Chattanooga will provide equipment for families to try archery or take a self guided hike. Canoes can be rented for $25 to explore the creek. All other activities are free. Appropriate for ages 5+.
Adventure Spotlight
National Trails Day June 2
Each year, the first Saturday in June is dedicated to connecting people to trails! Did you know that trails are for more than just hiking? They also provide access to waterways for paddling adventures and pathways for biking, birdwatching or geocaching. Events across the country are held to promote volunteer efforts, raise awareness of trail issues, and instill excitement for the outdoors by encouraging people to discover their local trails and create their own adventure! We encourage you to join this historic event and leave a trail better than you found it!
Free Guided Hikes at Tennessee State Parks for National Trails Day
Booker T. Washington State Park - Interpretive Ranger will lead a one-mile hike around the nature trail from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Bring water and sturdy shoes. Contact Ranger Basham with any questions 423-322-5160.
Harrison Bay State Park - Ranger-guided two-mile hike to explore the Bay Point Loop Trail and discover the flora and fauna at the Park. Suitable for all ages, but trail is not stroller friendly. 2:30-4:00 p.m.
Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park - Meet Ranger Cheyenne at the park office at 5 p.m. for a one-mile guided hike focusing on native plants, wildlife and history along the Hiwassee River loop trail from 5-6 p.m. Register in advance online. Call 423-263-0050 for more info.
Red Clay State Historic Park - Ranger guided hike at the park from 2-4 p.m. Meet at the gazebo at 2 p.m. Call 423-478-0339 for more information.
South Cumberland State Park - The park will be hosting a volunteer work day from 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. Volunteers should bring snacks, water and sturdy shoes. The group will meet at 1869 Old CCC Rd. Sherwood, TN 37376.
Free Guided Hikes at Georgia State Parks for National Trails Day
Cloudland Canyon State Park - The park will host a two-mile dog hike along the backcountry trail from 10-11 a.m. All dogs must be on a 6-foot or shorter leash. Or a beginner hike from 11-12 p.m. Parking is $5.
Fort Mountain State Park - This Chatsworth-based park will host a sunset hike to the West Overlook from 7:30-9 p.m. The hike is easy to moderate and costs $3. Parking is an additional $5. Call 706-422-1932 for details.
James H Floyd State Park - Discover the old Marble Mine on this 2-mile ranger-led hike. It is a moderate to strenuous hike from 3-5 p.m. There is a $5 charge for parking. Call 706-857-0826 for more information.
Community Events
River City Sessions at Lula Lake
Friday, June 8 | 4:30-9:30 p.m.
Enjoy the sounds of local musicians rocking out on Lula Lake Land Trust's core property at twilight. Gates open at 4:30 p.m. for guests to hike and explore the trails before the main event. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 on the day of the event. Children under 12 are free. Food + beverages for purchase on site.
Tennessee Aquarium Conservation Institute Kayak Tour
Saturday, June 9
Join Outdoor Chattanooga and Tennessee Aquarium Conservation Institute (TNACI) for a 10-mile guided kayak tour down the TN River to learn about the river's natural wonders. All equipment, guides, tour of the Institute and lunch provided. Cost: $50 per person. Reservation required in advance. For ages 16+. Some kayaking experience recommended due to the distance.
River + Road + Rock Adventure Triathlon
Saturday, June 9
Wild Trails hosts a unique adventure triathlon where racers paddle, run and climb their way through downtown Chattanooga. As part of the Southern Stoke Paddle Series, this race offers both short and long distance paddle options. Race solo or with a team! Register by June 7.
Free Fishing Days
Saturday, June 9
Enjoy a free day of fishing in Tennessee, Georgia and/or Alabama on Sat., June 9. The day allows anyone, especially children, the opportunity to try this great outdoor sport for free and to celebrate fishing as a wholesome and healthy recreational option. Children under 15 may fish without a license beginning on Free Fishing Day through the following Friday (June 15).