Summer is officially here, Nooga — even if the recent heat waves had us feeling like it was summertime a bit early.

From local hikes to caving and kayaking, we’ve created the ultimate Chattanooga summer bucket list to get you outdoors + soak up the sun all season long.

💧 Waterfalls, creeks + lakes, oh my

Big Soddy Creek Gulf | This gravel trail passes by several swimming holes for you to take a dip + cool off.
Foster Falls | Hike your way to see a 60-ft waterfall.
Grundy Forest | This 234-acre forest in Grundy County (~55-minute drive from Chattanooga) has cascading streams + waterfalls and several swimming spots along its trails.

Already conquered these hikes? Take on these hikes next.

🪨 Stay shady

Raccoon Mountain Caverns & Campground | Named TripAdvisor’s “#1 Thing to Do in Chattanooga,” Raccoon Mountain Caverns consist of 5.5 miles of underground passageways.
Ruby Falls | Cave adventure options include faster-paced, guided “Cave Walks” to the underground waterfall or slower, more in-depth tours led by senior-level guides.
Rock City Gardens | Stroll through a 4,100-ft Enchanted Trail to see rock formations, magical caves, and even more breathtaking views.

🛶 Grab a paddle

L2 Outside | Rent a stand-up paddleboard, kayak, or tandem kayak to have some fun on the Tennessee River.
Kayak Tours Chattanooga | Float down the Tennessee River at sunset with glow kayaks.
Canoe Kayak Chattanooga | Explore the Tennessee River Gorge by kayak or canoe — Pontoon Boats are also available for rent by the day.