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Chattanooga: North America’s First National Park City

A City in a Park, Not Just a City with Parks Not long ago, Chattanooga was known as one of the most polluted cities in America—buried under smog and forgotten by fresh air. But today, we’re turning that history on its head. We’re now officially the first National Park City in North America—and…

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The Complete Guide to Downtown Paddling on the Tennessee River

In Chattanooga, life revolves around the Tennessee River. Literally. The broad waterway bisects downtown, and many people cross one of its four bridges multiple times each day. With riverside parks, waterfront restaurants, and plenty of recreation opportunities, the Tennessee River is the lifeblood…

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The Complete Guide to Paddling Life in Chattanooga

For quality paddling in any shape or form, Chattanooga is inarguably a water lover’s dream come true. Within an hour of downtown, boaters can easily access world-class whitewater and scenic flatwater paddling destinations. At all times of the year you’ll find Chattanooga’s dedicated weekend warriors…

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A Guide to Chattanooga's Unique Birding Opportunities

A wide range of protected habitats makes Chattanooga an exciting destination for bird watching. Seasoned birders have likely heard of the area’s Sandhill Crane festival, but the city and surrounding region also offer unique bird viewing opportunities year-round. Whether you’re in search of…

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5 Active Ways to Experience the Fall Colors in Chattanooga

This blog was updated August 2025. It’s finally starting to feel a bit like fall in Chattanooga. Cloudless, bluebird days have been the norm of late, and the leaves are finally starting to turn in the higher elevations of Lookout and Signal Mountain. It’s true: crisp weather like this makes holing…

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Paddleboarding, Chattanooga Style

This blog was updated August 2025. From expansive, glassy lakes to rolling whitewater, Chattanooga offers a smorgasbord of paddleboarding opportunities. Ben Friberg, a native Chattanoogan and the first person to stand-up paddleboard from Cuba to Key West said, "There are some pretty significant…

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