May 8–11, 2026 — Chattanooga's iconic mountaintop: caves, gardens, Civil War history, and the best views in the Southeast.
Descend 260 feet into Lookout Mountain to see the tallest underground waterfall open to the public in the US. Guided cave tours run year-round with seasonal specialty tours — lantern tours and ghost walks in the fall. Book ahead on weekends.
Walk the Enchanted Trail through massive rock formations, cross the Swing-A-Long Bridge, and stand at Lover's Leap for the fabled See 7 States panoramic view. Seasonal events transform the gardens: Enchanted Garden of Lights (winter holidays), Shamrock City (St. Patrick's), and Summer Music Weekends with live bands on the mountaintop.
Ride one of the world's steepest passenger railways up the face of the mountain. The top station puts you steps from Point Park and a short walk to the Bluff Trail. Buy a round-trip ticket or ride up and hike down. The observation deck at the top station is free to visitors.
Part of Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park. Walk the battery placements and read the interpretive signs overlooking Moccasin Bend and the Tennessee River. The Battles for Chattanooga museum at the entrance runs a 3D map show. The overlooks from Point Park are some of the best free views on the mountain.
A short, moderate hike from the Cravens House trailhead to a sweeping west-facing bluff. Bring a blanket and watch the sun drop over the Tennessee Valley. Part of the Guild-Hardy Trail network. Park at Cravens House lot and follow the signs — about 15 minutes each way.
The restored 1856 home of Robert Cravens, used as both Union and Confederate headquarters during the Civil War. The grounds and overlooks are always open; interior tours are seasonal. Trailheads for the Bluff Trail and Guild-Hardy Trail start in the parking lot. A quieter alternative to Point Park.
A 317-acre nature preserve with native animal exhibits (red wolves, raptors), a native plant nursery, and miles of trails connecting to the Tennessee Riverwalk. Drive or walk the loop road for easy access. Check their calendar for guided canoe floats and birding walks.
Ruby Falls: Large dedicated lot at 1720 S Scenic Hwy. Free for visitors. Fills by late morning on weekends — arrive before 10 AM or after 3 PM for lighter crowds.
Rock City: Free lot at 1400 Patten Rd. Staffed lot with overflow parking for peak days. Holiday light season requires timed-entry tickets.
Point Park: Free NPS lot at 110 Point Park Rd. Smaller lot — if full, park at Cravens House and walk the Bluff Trail (~1 mile) to the point.
Incline Railway: Top station lot at 3917 St. Elmo Ave. Free for riders. The bottom station in St. Elmo fills fast — parking at the top is usually easier on weekends.
Cravens House / Sunset Rock: Small free lot at Cravens Terrace. The best base for hiking and sunset viewing. Overflow parking along W Brow Rd (watch for no-parking signs).
Explore other neighborhoods: North Shore, Southside, Downtown, St. Elmo, Lookout Mountain
Get Lookout Mountain + every other neighborhood every Thursday.
Updated: May 1, 2026. Events and hours verified at time of publication. Always check attraction websites for weather closures and seasonal changes.