Paddle-Kayak Chattanooga
There is no denying the stress-relieving benefits of spending time in nature. A wonderful place to center your mind and find peace and tranquility is in the serene waterways of Chattanooga and surrounding Tri-state areas. Exploring by kayak or canoe provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in nature’s offerings. Whether a leisurely paddle or more thrill-inducing rapids, you’re sure to find personal Zen by exploring Tennessee’s countless miles and acres of rivers and lakes. So grab a paddle and discover these wonderful gems right in your backyard!
Tennessee River
The Tennessee River Blueway stretches from the Chickamauga Dam Recreation Area to Lake Nickajack, offering paddling experiences from leisurely to fast paced. Affectionately referred to as Tennessee’s Little Grand Canyon, the river gorge features picturesque vistas of tall bluff views and is home to spectacular wildlife. This dam-controlled river runs through the center of downtown Chattanooga, providing an invigorating opportunity to see the city from a different perspective. A canoe/kayak launch area is located by the Walnut Street Bridge, one of the world’s longest pedestrian bridges.
Hiwassee River
The Hiwassee River is a cold, crystal clear mountain river featuring Class I and II whitewater rapids during normal water flow. The mountainous scenery surrounds you as you paddle along the river, offering striking views of the rocky cliffs of Gee Creek. There are plenty of places along the banks to pull out and spend time meditating or take a dip in the icy waters. With outfitter options in the area, the Hiwassee makes for a great recreational area to experience solo or with a group.
South Holston Lake
Known for its sapphire-colored waters, hidden waterfalls and large spans of wildflowers, South Holston Lake is easily considered one of the most beautiful lakes in Tennessee. Located on the border of Tennessee and Virginia, the area is surrounded by the Cherokee National Forest. A paddling trip along the 17 miles of gliding waters offers captivating sights of massive rock formations and mountain scenery. Miles of hiking trails and excellent camping nearby make this a perfect spot for exploring, fishing and spending quality time in nature with family and friends.
Watauga Lake
Watauga Lake beckons paddlers with its tranquil waters and stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains. You can paddle to small islands along the shorelines, making it a great option for beginners or those interested in slow-paced trips. This gem is a haven for birdwatchers, with ospreys and bald eagles soaring overhead … making Watauga an ideal place to unplug and enjoy nature.
With all things in nature, safety is always of the utmost importance. Be sure to check weather conditions before heading out, wear a life vest, stay hydrated and let others know where you’re going. Treat our Tennessee waters with care and respect … “Leave No Trace” means leaving nothing behind (except maybe your stress)! Let’s protect the natural beauty of these waterways and their inhabitants, so they can continue to provide peace and serenity for generations to come.