Tennessee Riverwalk

The Tennessee Riverwalk offers numerous access points with parking along its extensive length. You'll find convenient parking areas at various parks and attractions that connect directly to the trail, especially around downtown Chattanooga's riverfront.

Yes, the Tennessee Riverwalk is generally dog-friendly. Many sections are popular for walking dogs, but please ensure your pet is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all users.

The Tennessee Riverwalk is enjoyable year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, making them ideal for longer excursions. Summer can be warm, but the river breezes and shaded sections provide some relief. Winter hiking is also possible, with fewer crowds and unique views.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Tennessee Riverwalk or the broader Tennessee Riverpark. It is a public, multi-use trail freely accessible to everyone.

The Tennessee Riverwalk is primarily a paved, multi-use pathway, featuring sections of boardwalks and bridges. While mostly flat, there are some gentle 'ups and downs' and a noticeable hill in certain areas, particularly around the downtown riverfront. Its paved surface and gentle grades make it suitable for a wide range of users, including beginners, families with strollers, and those in wheelchairs.

The Riverwalk connects to many of Chattanooga's iconic landmarks. You can explore the Bluff View Sculpture Garden, visit the Hunter Museum of American Art, and see Ross's Landing and Tennessee River Bridges. Other highlights include Coolidge Park, the Tennessee Aquarium, and the Walnut Street Bridge. You'll also find public art, historic sites, and natural areas like the Amnicola Marsh.

The full komoot route for the Tennessee Riverwalk is approximately 21.8 kilometers (13.5 miles) and typically takes around 5 hours and 38 minutes to hike. However, the trail itself spans about 11 to 16 miles depending on the segments you include, so duration can vary based on your pace and how much of the trail you cover.

Yes, the Tennessee Riverwalk is well-equipped with amenities. You'll find restrooms and water fountains at various points along the trail, especially in the parks and urban sections, making it convenient for longer outings.

Yes, the Tennessee Riverwalk is a central part of Chattanooga's greenway system. It directly connects to and incorporates sections of other paths, including the South Chickamauga Creek Greenway and various segments of the Chattanooga Bicycle Transit System, allowing for extended exploration.

Occasionally, sections of the Riverwalk may experience temporary closures for improvements or new construction. For example, a section near the new Erlanger Park baseball stadium is expected to reopen in April 2026, and a bridge near the Chattanooga Rowing Center is undergoing safety upgrades with an estimated six-month closure. It's always a good idea to check local advisories before your visit.

Absolutely! The paved, mostly flat terrain and numerous access points make the Riverwalk very family-friendly. There are parks, playgrounds, and attractions like the Tennessee Aquarium easily accessible from the trail, providing plenty of opportunities for kids to enjoy. The multi-use nature also means children can bike or scooter alongside walkers.