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Best Scenic Drives Near Chattanooga
Chattanooga, nestled along the Tennessee River and surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains, offers some of the most picturesque landscapes in the United States. The area around Chattanooga is rich with natural beauty, history, and an array of scenic drives that provide visitors with breathtaking views and unique experiences. Here are some top recommendations for scenic drives near Chattanooga, complete with interesting facts, local knowledge, and driving directions.
Lookout Mountain Scenic Highway
- Overview: The Lookout Mountain Scenic Highway is a must-visit for anyone in Chattanooga. This drive takes you up to Lookout Mountain, where you'll find attractions such as Rock City, Ruby Falls, and the Lookout Mountain Battlefield. The winding road offers stunning views of the Chattanooga Valley below.
- Interesting Facts: Lookout Mountain is historically significant for its role in the Civil War, particularly the "Battle Above the Clouds."
- Visitor Tips: Make sure to stop at Point Park for a panoramic view of Chattanooga. The entry fee is worth the breathtaking scenery.
- Directions: Starting from downtown Chattanooga, take Broad Street south and follow the signs to St. Elmo Avenue, which leads directly to the Lookout Mountain Scenic Highway. The drive to the top takes about 20 minutes.
Cherohala Skyway
- Overview: Stretching for 43 miles and connecting Tellico Plains, Tennessee, to Robbinsville, North Carolina, the Cherohala Skyway traverses through the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests, offering majestic mountain views.
- Interesting Facts: This skyway took nearly 34 years to complete and stands as a testament to engineering and natural beauty.
- Visitor Tips: Visit in autumn to see the forest in vibrant fall colors. There are numerous overlooks and trailheads along the way for hiking.
- Directions: The starting point is about an hour and a half drive from Chattanooga. Head east on I-75, then south on Highway 411 to Tellico Plains, where the Skyway begins.
Ocoee Scenic Byway
- Overview: The first National Forest Scenic Byway in the nation, the Ocoee Scenic Byway winds through the Cherokee National Forest and along the Ocoee River. It's famous for its whitewater rafting and the beautiful Ocoee River Gorge.
- Interesting Facts: The Ocoee River hosted the canoe slalom events during the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.
- Visitor Tips: Plan to stop at the Ocoee Whitewater Center, where you can explore hiking trails, an Olympic river course, and a visitors center.
- Directions: It's about an hour's drive from Chattanooga. Take I-75 North to Cleveland, TN, then head east on Highway 64 towards the Ocoee River.
Cumberland Plateau
- Overview: This drive takes you across the Cumberland Plateau, offering views of deep gorges, unique rock formations, and lush forests.
- Interesting Facts: The Cumberland Plateau is renowned for its extensive cave systems, including Cumberland Caverns.
- Visitor Tips: Consider detours to Fall Creek Falls or Savage Gulf for hiking and breathtaking waterfalls.
- Directions: From Chattanooga, take I-24 West towards Nashville, and choose your exit based on your specific destination on the plateau. The journey to the edge of the plateau can take around an hour.
Each of these drives reveals the natural beauty and historical richness of the Chattanooga region. Whether you're interested in panoramic views, vibrant autumn leaves, or exploring national forests, Chattanooga's scenic drives offer something for everyone. Remember to check for any seasonal closures or restrictions before you go, and enjoy the journey!
