The Scenic City is the perfect place to enjoy the natural world + with the return of this festival, you won't even have to travel that far — we're talking the Chattanooga Outdoor Festival on Saturday, April 5.

Brought to you by Outshine Adventures + Nomad Be Happy, folks will be able to spend an afternoon in the Chattanooga Choo Choo Gardens — and new to this year, an expansion into Station Street — learning ways to connect to our green spaces and waterways.

Founder of Outshine Adventures Sunshine Loveless said they want this inaugural event to connect outdoor enthusiasts while opening the door for others.

Sponsored by Rock/Creek, TVA, Chattanooga Tourism Co., and Roamstead, this festival will get you in touch with the great outdoors. | Photo provided by Chattanooga Outdoor Festival

"This festival will bring together a variety of outdoor retailers, guide services, outfitters, nonprofits, and conservation organizations to celebrate Chattanooga's vibrant outdoor community and diverse recreational opportunities," they said. "It's a great way for outdoor curious folks to discover new outdoor skills, hobbies, and all the cool ways to get outside and play in the Scenic City."

From 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., you can stop by and take part in interactive stations + demonstrations to learn or work on your skills. We'll throw you a paddle and give you a teaser.

Bike skills pump track with White Oak Bicycle Co-Op
Animal encounters with Reflection Riding
Gear repair station with Four Bridges Outfitters
Raft Race with Adventures Unlimited
Group bike ride led by The Boneyard
Dehydrated meal samples with Alt Route Meals

Paddle boarding, biking, rock climbing, oh my — get back to the basics with demonstrations. | Photo provided by Chattanooga Outdoor Festival

During this second rendition of the festival, there will also be a second stage for live music, breakout sessions and workshops with industry experts, a kids zone, and a chance to buy food + beverages from all of the local joints within the Choo Choo campus.

Oh, and did we mention — the full festival will be eco-conscious + low-waste with the help of NewTerra Compost, from managing food waste to recycling.

"There's so much to explore in our backyard, and we want to highlight that," Loveless said. "I think nature has healing properties, if you just take time and get out there, soak it up, you'll feel better."

Bonus: RSVP to enter a chance to win a two-night campervan.You can even lend a helping hand while enjoying the fun + with these volunteer opportunities.