OUR FAVORITE DOG-FRIENDLY HIKING TRAILS IN CHATTANOOGA
East Tennessee is known for its bounty of hiking trails, so it's no surprise that Chattanooga is home to countless outdoor enthusiasts. But Chattanoogans aren't the only ones who love a good hike; your dog does too! That's why our crew has compiled this list of dog-friendly hiking trails in Chattanooga for you and your four-legged companion to enjoy.
SUNSET ROCK OVERLOOK
There isn't a hike more classic than the Sunset Rock overlook atop Lookout Mountain. This quick hike takes you from a small gravel parking lot to a breath-taking view of the Scenic City. Like the name implies, this ledge provides the perfect spot to watch the sunset.
Pictured: Stan, an Ark customer and avid hiker, is taking in the views at Sunset Rock. This adventurous pup has explored dozens of Chattanooga's trails alongside his equally adventurous owner Frances.
NORTH CHICK BLUE HOLE
Care for a swim? The Blue Hole (pictured) in Soddy Daisy is the perfect spot to cool off in the heat of the summer. Take a 30 minute trek along a wooded trail to the crystal blue swimming hole or veer off at any point to take a dip in the Chickamauga Creek Gorge.
LITTLE CEDAR MOUNTAIN TRAIL
The Little Cedar Mountain Trail is a 4 mile loop within TVA's Little Cedar Mountain Small Wild Area. This wooded hike has a little something for everyone including wildlife viewing, scenic bluffs, wetlands, steep climbs and Native American history.
CLOUDLAND CONNECTOR TRAIL
The Cloudland Connector Trail (pictured) is a 14 mile one-way stretch through Cloudland Canyon State Park. This wide, straightforward trail is ideal for dog walking, plus you can choose to turn around and walk back to your car at any time.
POPLAR SPRINGS TRAIL
The Poplar Springs section of the Cumberland Trail is a moderate 5 mile hike along the Tennessee River Gorge. Some rocky terrain might make this trail a little tough for less agile pups, but this fun hike includes numerous wet-weather stream crossings, stone steps and a wooden bridge
RAINBOW LAKE TRAIL
The Rainbow Lake Trail (pictured) is a half-mile hike atop Signal Mountain. The short trail ends at Rainbow Lake Dam - a popular swimming spot for humans and dogs alike. If you're up for an adventure, you can explore the suspension bridge and surrounding trails.
STRINGER'S RIDGE
If you're looking for a convenient hike in the heart of Chattanooga, look no further than Stringer's Ridge. While these trails don't boast scenic overlooks or swimming spots, they sure make up for it in accessibility and family friendliness. Be aware of trail runners and bikers.
When you and your pup hit the trails, be sure to remember trail etiquette such as cleaning up after you dog and letting speedy hikers pass you. Believe it or not, other hikers might not love your dog's slobbery greetings as much as you do, so always keep your dog on a non-retractable leash. Don't forget to pack an extra water bottle for your dog and watch for signs of overheating and dehydration.
