Discovering the Great Outdoors in Chattanooga
Chattanooga is not just known for its scenic views but also for its fantastic opportunities for outdoor adventures. With an abundance of hiking trails, mountain biking spots, and beautiful lakes, rivers, and streams perfect for kayaking or canoeing, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy nature. If you’re someone who loves the idea of getting outside but doesn’t know where to start, don’t worry! There’s help available for you right in the heart of the Scenic City.
Your Guide to Outdoor Fun
Outdoor Chattanooga is the go-to organization for anyone looking to explore the great outdoors in our city. They offer a variety of workshops and guided activities, and the best part? Most of their programs are completely free of charge! That’s right—there’s no reason to let cost stand between you and the adventure you’ve always wanted to try.
The director of Outdoor Chattanooga, Gale Loveland Barille, emphasizes their mission: “Our mission is to spark a contagious love of the outdoors through adventure and action sports, nature exploration, and community partnerships. We want you to enjoy that time outside.” With Barille joining the ranks two years ago, she brings a wealth of experience that truly enriches the services they offer.
Accessible Outdoor Programs for Everyone
Outdoor Chattanooga believes that everyone should have access to outdoor activities. They actively reach out to the community to gather input, which informs how they design programs and parks. “It means reaching out to new populations, making it economically accessible, and being very thoughtful in how we design our programs and our parks so that people of all abilities can participate,” Barille explains.
The organization caters to all ages with a variety of learning programs suitable for children, adults, and seniors alike. Want to learn how to ride a bike? They can help! Interested in skateboarding or learning the basics of hiking? You’ll find that here too! There’s even an archery program—which is becoming increasingly popular—offered at their Coolidge Park location and at Greenway Farm. According to Barille, “It is wildly popular. Most of the folks who come are at entry level, although we do have some folks that come, and this is their time to practice and are really serious about it.”
Adventurous Activities Await
If rock-climbing is more your style, Outdoor Chattanooga has classes for that, too! They also offer two levels of Introduction to Mountain Biking courses and an introduction to flatwater paddling course known as Paddle Smart Chattanooga, which covers boating, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding.
One standout program is their adaptive cycling initiative, which provides individuals with disabilities the opportunity to cycle along the beautiful Tennessee River. It’s amazing to see how they make outdoor experiences possible for everyone, regardless of ability.
Community Connection and Exploration
Outdoor Chattanooga also promotes community connection through regular meetups centered on various outdoor activities like biking, climbing, or paddling. Each meetup has a unique theme, creating a friendly atmosphere where people can come together, share experiences, and discover local outdoor resources. Barille mentions, “We want people to meet up and find each other and find out more about the resources and all the different places they can go.”
Becoming a National Park City
In addition to their various programs, Outdoor Chattanooga is playing an essential role in helping the city work towards the designation of a National Park City. This is a significant recognition from an international nonprofit for municipalities committed to enhancing city life while caring for nature. Being recognized in this way would shine a spotlight on all the amazing outdoor opportunities Chattanooga has to offer.
Join the Adventure!
If you’re ready to get started on your outdoor adventure—or if you simply want to know more about all the fantastic programs available—head on over to Outdoor Chattanooga’s website. You’ll find a wealth of information on events, classes, and other opportunities to immerse yourself in the great outdoors.
Chattanooga is calling out! Don’t miss your chance to enjoy the beauty of nature and discover a new passion. Remember, the outdoor experience is waiting for you. Let’s enjoy it together!
