Chattanooga Riverwalk - a bridge over a river
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Chattanooga Riverwalk

4.6
·491k reviews·Chattanooga, United States

Chattanooga's 16+ mile Riverwalk offers scenic river views, recreational trails, and unique attractions like The Passage water stairs.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant temps, blooming nature

CrowdLow
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Chattanooga Riverwalk - a bridge over a river

Chattanooga Riverwalk

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant temps, blooming nature

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Chattanooga's 16+ mile Riverwalk offers scenic river views, recreational trails, and unique attractions like The Passage water stairs.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A must-do for exploring Chattanooga, offering beautiful river views and fun activities for all ages."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Respect Trail Etiquette

Be mindful of others, keep dogs close, and yield to faster users.

🚲 Rent a Bike

Explore the 16+ miles of trails easily by renting a bike or e-bike.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Passage Water Stairs

The Passage Water Stairs

Downtown Chattanooga

Interactive water stairs offering a cool respite and a unique photo opportunity. A must-see downtown attraction.

TikTok+1
Tennessee River Views

Tennessee River Views

Along the entire Riverwalk

Enjoy picturesque vistas of the Tennessee River, bridges, and city skyline. Perfect for leisurely strolls or bike rides.

Instagram+1
Riverwalk Bike Trails

Riverwalk Bike Trails

16.1 miles of paved path

Explore the extensive paved trails by bike, electric bike, or on foot. A fantastic way to see the city's diverse offerings.

Instagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Lengthy Riverwalk

The Chattanooga Riverwalk stretches over 16 miles, offering diverse experiences. Plan your route to maximize your visit, whether you're walking, biking, or exploring specific sections like the Passage water stairs. Instagram+1

Beat the Heat and Crowds

Summer in Chattanooga can be hot. Consider visiting early mornings or late afternoons to avoid the peak heat and crowds, especially at popular spots like The Passage. TikTok+1

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant temps, blooming nature
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, golden hour
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer early mornings
Why
Beat the heat
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Passage is a pedestrian link between downtown Chattanooga and the Tennessee River and marks the beginning of the Trail of Tears. The Trail of Tears refers to the journey which forced the removal of the Cherokee tribes from Ross' s Landing in Chattanooga to Oklahoma. Some 4000 Cherokees died before reaching Oklahoma. The Passage is a permanent outdoor exhibit, with symbolism of the seven clans ...
@stephanie.breg
33.8K likes • 1.5M views

🚶‍♀️ Respect Trail Etiquette

Be mindful of others, keep dogs close, and yield to faster users. Reddit

🚲 Rent a Bike

Explore the 16+ miles of trails easily by renting a bike or e-bike. Instagram+1

Def a must do if you are downtown Chattanooga! Next time i want to go to the aquarium too! #thepassage #chattanooga #CapCut #chattanoogatennessee #tennessee #downtownchattanooga #thingstodo #thingstodoinchattanooga #waterstairs #socool #fyp #foryoupage #fy
@stephanie.breg
28.7K likes • 362.5K views
the TN Riverwalk after watching my edit: 😊🥰❤️😳😚💪 lol anyway I got stressed today so I went and touched grass. Ps- this is one of my FAVORITE places to walk/run at in Chattanooga! Details below⬇️ 📍 Tennessee Riverwalk - it’s 13 miles spanning across Chattanooga. There are dozens of access points where you can park your car and hop on the trail. The spot I’m at specifically is the 📍2101 amnicoma h...
webbchatts
899 likes • 20.6K views

💧 Cool off at The Passage

A fun, interactive water feature perfect for kids and adults on hot days. TikTok

🗺️ Download a Map

The Riverwalk is extensive; a map helps navigate its 16 miles. Instagram

Have you done the whole TN Riverwalk? 💭 we love riding bikes here, especially in the spring when everything is blooming! 🌳🌸🚲 📍The Tennessee Riverwalk is a paved pedestrian-only path where you can run, bike, and walk along the Tennessee River in downtown Chattanooga How many miles is it? Who knows 🤪 every article online says something different! We usually just do sections of it. I believe the...
hope.maum
9.6K likes • 424.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Respect Trail Etiquette

Be mindful of others, keep dogs close, and yield to faster users. Reddit

🚲 Rent a Bike

Explore the 16+ miles of trails easily by renting a bike or e-bike. Instagram+1

💧 Cool off at The Passage

A fun, interactive water feature perfect for kids and adults on hot days. TikTok

🗺️ Download a Map

The Riverwalk is extensive; a map helps navigate its 16 miles. Instagram

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking or biking, so comfort is key! Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Chattanooga Riverwalk's extensive length, scenic beauty, and recreational opportunities. The Passage water stairs are a unique highlight, and biking the trails is a popular way to explore. Some find parking challenging during peak times, and the summer heat can be intense.

What People Like

Extensive paved trails
Scenic river views
The Passage water stairs

What People Dislike

Crowded during peak times
Summer heat can be intense

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Chattanooga Riverwalk has numerous access points throughout downtown and beyond. You can easily reach it by car, with several parking options available. Many visitors also find it convenient to access after visiting nearby attractions like the Tennessee Aquarium. TikTokInstagram

Yes, there are multiple parking lots and street parking options along the Chattanooga Riverwalk, especially in the downtown areas. Some spots might fill up quickly during peak times. Instagram

While direct public transport to every point might be limited, the downtown area is well-served by public transit, allowing you to get close to many Riverwalk access points. Check local transit schedules for routes near your starting point. TikTok

The Riverwalk is ideal for walking, running, and biking. Many visitors opt to rent bikes or e-bikes to cover the extensive 16-mile stretch. Instagram+1

The Riverwalk is generally paved and accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, making it a great option for most visitors. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, the Chattanooga Riverwalk is completely free to access and enjoy. There are no admission fees. TikTok

The Riverwalk is typically open 24/7, allowing you to enjoy it at any time. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility. Instagram

No tickets are required to enter or use the Chattanooga Riverwalk. It's a public park and pathway. TikTok

While generally open, occasional closures might occur for maintenance or special events. It's advisable to check local event calendars or city announcements if you're planning a visit during a specific time. Instagram

Yes, the Chattanooga Riverwalk is dog-friendly! Just be sure to keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Don't miss The Passage water stairs for a unique experience, enjoy the scenic river views, and consider biking the full length to see diverse areas. TikTokInstagram+1

Walking the entire 16.1 miles can take several hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop. Many visitors explore sections at a time. Instagram

You can walk, run, bike, rollerblade, or simply relax and enjoy the views. The Passage water stairs offer a fun way to cool off. TikTokInstagram

While the Riverwalk is technically open 24/7, it's generally recommended to visit during daylight hours for the best experience and safety. Instagram

The Riverwalk passes by historical sites like Ross's Landing and The Passage, which commemorates the Trail of Tears, offering a glimpse into the region's past. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries located near the Riverwalk, especially in the downtown area. You can find options ranging from casual to upscale. TikTok

Absolutely! The Riverwalk is a great place for a picnic. There are many scenic spots where you can relax and enjoy your meal. Instagram

While less common, you might find occasional food trucks or vendors, particularly during special events or in high-traffic areas. It's best to plan for nearby restaurants for consistent options. TikTok

You'll find a variety of cuisines, including Southern comfort food, American classics, and international options, catering to diverse tastes. TikTok

Many restaurants in the downtown area adjacent to the Riverwalk offer beautiful views of the Tennessee River, enhancing your dining experience. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The Passage water stairs, the iconic Walnut Street Bridge, and scenic overlooks of the Tennessee River and city skyline are prime photography locations. TikTokInstagram

Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be good for capturing the vibrant water features. Instagram

Drone usage is subject to FAA regulations and local park rules. It's essential to check current regulations before flying a drone in the area. Instagram

Key landmarks include the Walnut Street Bridge, the Tennessee Aquarium, the historic Ross's Landing, and the various public art installations along the path. TikTokInstagram

The Riverwalk is excellent for landscape, cityscape, and lifestyle photography, capturing both natural beauty and urban elements. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Chattanooga Riverwalk is a fantastic destination for families. The Passage water stairs are a huge hit with children, offering a fun and interactive way to cool off during warmer months. TikTok The paved trails are perfect for strollers and little ones learning to ride bikes, with plenty of open space to explore. Many sections offer beautiful river views that can captivate young imaginations. Instagram

Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots along the Riverwalk. It's a budget-friendly way to refuel while taking in the sights. Remember to bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water, especially during summer. The accessibility of the Riverwalk makes it easy for families to navigate with ease, ensuring a stress-free outing. TikTok

🚴‍♀️ Active Adventurers

For those who love to stay active, the Chattanooga Riverwalk is a dream come true. With over 16 miles of paved, pedestrian-only trails, it's perfect for long-distance running, cycling, or even rollerblading. Instagram+1 Renting a bike or e-bike is highly recommended to cover more ground and experience the diverse landscapes the Riverwalk offers, from urban vistas to more natural settings. Instagram+1

Challenge yourself to bike the entire length, or focus on specific sections that appeal to you. The Riverwalk connects to other trail systems, offering even more opportunities for exploration. Remember to check out bike rental options in the downtown area for convenient access. Instagram+1

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

The Chattanooga Riverwalk provides a stunning backdrop for photographers and content creators. The interplay of the Tennessee River, iconic bridges like the Walnut Street Bridge, and the city skyline offers endless visual possibilities. Instagram+1 The Passage water stairs are a unique and eye-catching subject, especially when the water is flowing. TikTok

Aim for golden hour (sunrise or sunset) for the most dramatic and flattering light. Instagram Explore different angles and perspectives to capture the essence of Chattanooga. Whether you're looking for urban landscapes, natural beauty, or candid lifestyle shots, the Riverwalk delivers. Be mindful of any local regulations regarding drone usage if you plan to capture aerial footage. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring The Passage: A Unique Water Feature

The Passage, often referred to as the 'water stairs,' is a standout feature on the Chattanooga Riverwalk. This interactive installation allows visitors to walk up or down a series of cascading water steps, offering a refreshing and playful experience, especially on hot days. TikTok+1 It's a popular spot for families and a unique photo opportunity, showcasing innovative urban design. The area also holds historical significance, marking the beginning of the Trail of Tears, a somber reminder of Cherokee removal. TikTok

Visitors often express surprise at how crowded The Passage can get, highlighting its popularity. TikTok While it's a fantastic place to cool off, arriving earlier in the day or on a weekday can help you enjoy it with fewer people. The water feature is a testament to how public spaces can blend recreation with historical context, making it a memorable part of the Riverwalk experience. TikTok

Cycling the Chattanooga Riverwalk: An Extensive Adventure

The Chattanooga Riverwalk is renowned for its extensive network of paved trails, spanning over 16 miles. Instagram+1 This makes it an ideal destination for cyclists looking to explore the city and its scenic riverfront. Whether you prefer a leisurely ride or a more vigorous workout, the Riverwalk accommodates all levels of cyclists. Electric bikes (e-bikes) are also a popular choice, allowing riders to cover more ground with ease. Instagram

Many travelers and locals consider biking the Riverwalk one of the best ways to experience Chattanooga. Instagram It provides access to various districts, including St. Elmo, the Arts District, and even views of the TVA Chickamauga Dam. Instagram Bike rental shops are readily available, making it convenient for visitors to hop on two wheels and embark on their adventure. Remember to be mindful of trail etiquette, yielding to pedestrians and keeping a safe distance. Reddit

Historical Echoes Along the Riverwalk

The Chattanooga Riverwalk is more than just a recreational path; it's a journey through history. The area around Ross's Landing, a key point on the Riverwalk, served as a departure point for the forced removal of the Cherokee Nation along the Trail of Tears. TikTok The Passage water stairs, while a modern attraction, are situated in a location that prompts reflection on this significant historical event. TikTok

As you traverse the Riverwalk, you'll encounter markers and interpretive elements that tell the story of Chattanooga's past, from its industrial roots to its role in significant historical events. This blend of natural beauty and historical narrative offers a richer, more profound experience for visitors. It's a place where you can enjoy outdoor activities while also connecting with the region's compelling heritage. TikTok

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