Need a quick escape from the city without going too far? Just beyond Chattanooga, I found day trips filled with scenic hikes, charming mountain towns, and peaceful river views—each one offering a refreshing dose of Tennessee’s natural charm and Southern warmth. "These day trips from Chattanooga, TN offer the perfect mix of scenic beauty, small-town charm, and outdoor fun to refresh your spirit."
Highlights:
Unique Day Trips from Chattanooga:
1. Chatsworth, Georgia - 50-minute drive southeast of Chattanooga
Rating: ★★★★★
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Location:
Chatsworth, GAHighlights:
If you’re craving crisp mountain air, peaceful views, and a full day outdoors, Chatsworth is just the spot. It’s a laid-back Appalachian gateway town where hiking boots and winery stops go hand in hand.Recommended For:
Nature lovers, hikers, campers, road-trippers, and anyone looking for a relaxing escape into North Georgia’s wilderness.What I Love: ♥
Easy access to Fort Mountain State Park and Cohutta Wilderness, beautiful lake views, intriguing history, and charming local wineries.- Explore the scenic Fort Mountain State Park, featuring a peaceful 17-acre lake, panoramic overlooks, and the mysterious ancient stone wall.
- Hike or bike through the expansive Cohutta Wilderness, with trails for all skill levels and endless opportunities for wildlife spotting.
- Unwind after your adventure with a tasting at one of the area’s friendly wineries, known for fruit wines and small-batch meads.
- Take it slow with a picnic in the mountains or a stroll through Chatsworth’s quaint downtown area.
Distance from Chattanooga:
It’s just about a 50-minute drive southeast of Chattanooga.How to Get to Chatsworth:
Take I-75 South from Chattanooga to Exit 336 in Dalton. Head east on US-76 toward Chatsworth—about a 15-minute drive from Dalton.2. Cherokee, North Carolina - 2 hours and 30 minutes
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Location:
Cherokee, NCHighlights:
If you're looking for a trip that blends culture, history, and natural beauty, Cherokee is a total gem. It’s the perfect launchpad for exploring the Great Smoky Mountains and diving into the heritage of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians.Recommended For:
Families, history and culture buffs, nature lovers, and travelers exploring the Smoky Mountains.What I Love: ♥
Hands-on Cherokee cultural experiences, powerful storytelling through live drama, scenic waterfalls, and easy access to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.- Step back in time at Oconaluftee Indian Village to witness 18th-century Cherokee life through immersive living history exhibitions.
- Experience the powerful “Unto These Hills” outdoor drama that brings Cherokee history to life with moving performances under the stars.
- Learn at the Museum of the Cherokee, which features compelling exhibits and stories from the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
- Explore nearby Mingo Falls and Soco Falls—two stunning waterfalls just a short drive from town.
- Discover scenic trails, mountain vistas, and wildlife as you enter Great Smoky Mountains National Park just minutes away.
Distance from Chattanooga:
Plan for a drive of about 2 hours and 30 minutes northeast.How to Get to Cherokee:
From Chattanooga, take US-74 East toward Bryson City. Continue to US-441 North and follow signs into Cherokee, located at the southern entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.3. Chickamauga Battlefield - a 25-minute drive from Chattanooga
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Location:
Fort Oglethorpe, GAHighlights:
If you’re even a little bit curious about Civil War history, this place is a must-see. Chickamauga Battlefield is sprawling, scenic, and packed with stories that bring one of America’s most pivotal battles to life.Recommended For:
History buffs, families, road trippers, and anyone interested in military heritage or outdoor driving tours.What I Love: ♥
Well-preserved battlefield sites, an impressive gun collection, detailed interpretive panels, and both guided and self-guided tour options.- Start at the Visitor Center, where you’ll find a top-notch weapons collection, a 26-minute film, and helpful park rangers.
- Join a ranger-led tour if it’s available—or follow the clearly marked self-guided driving tour, which takes around two hours and hits all the key landmarks.
- Explore open fields, forested trails, historic monuments, and interpretive signage that explains troop movements and battle events in detail.
- Visit anytime year-round; the park is open daily and free to the public.
Distance from Chattanooga:
Just a 25-minute drive south—super easy day trip!How to Get to Chickamauga Battlefield:
From Chattanooga, take US-27 South to Fort Oglethorpe. The park entrance is located at 3370 Lafayette Rd, right off the highway.4. Cloudland Canyon State Park - a 40-minute drive
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Location:
Rising Fawn, GAHighlights:
If you're craving big views, waterfall hikes, and a refreshing escape into nature, Cloudland Canyon is your spot. It’s one of Georgia’s most beautiful parks—and it’s practically in Chattanooga’s backyard.Recommended For:
Hikers, campers, mountain bikers, outdoor families, and weekend adventurers looking for epic views and varied terrain.What I Love: ♥
Dramatic cliffs and canyons, dreamy waterfall trails, and the mix of both easy walks and more challenging treks.- Hike over 25 miles of scenic trails, including a breathtaking 5-mile loop along the rim and down into the canyon.
- Bike 20 miles of designated mountain biking trails, great for both beginners and experienced riders.
- Explore hidden sandstone caves on a guided tour (advance booking recommended).
- Play a round at the 18-hole disc golf course or cast a line in the park’s fishing pond.
- Stay overnight in campsites, cabins, or yurts to soak in sunrise canyon views.
Distance from Chattanooga:
Just a 40-minute drive southwest makes this a perfect day trip or weekend escape.How to Get to Cloudland Canyon:
Take I-24 W from Chattanooga to I-59 S. Exit at GA-136 East and follow signs to the park entrance at 122 Cloudland Canyon Park Rd, Rising Fawn, GA.5. Coker Creek - 1 hour and 45 minutes from Chattanooga
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Location:
Coker Creek, TNHighlights:
If you're looking for a quiet, off-the-beaten-path escape with your partner, Coker Creek offers gold rush history, hidden waterfalls, and peaceful forest trails. It’s a sweet mix of simple adventure and Appalachian charm—perfect for a romantic getaway.Recommended For:
Couples, history lovers, nature seekers, and anyone craving a peaceful escape in the Cherokee National Forest.What I Love: ♥
The relaxing Coker Creek Falls trail, the chance to pan for real gold, and the countless cozy picnic spots tucked along the way.- Try your hand at gold panning—this was the site of America’s first gold rush, and you can still search for flakes today (permits may be required).
- Wander the scenic Coker Creek Falls Trail, a forested hike that leads to a tiered cascade and features idyllic swimming holes along the way.
- Disconnect from the buzz of city life and soak in the sounds of rustling leaves and rushing water with your favorite person by your side.
Distance from Chattanooga:
Expect a drive of about 1 hour and 45 minutes northeast into the mountains.How to Get to Coker Creek:
Take US-64 East toward Ocoee, then follow TN-68 North through the Cherokee National Forest. Look for signs for Coker Creek along the route—especially if heading to the falls trailhead.Romantic Day Trips from Chattanooga:
6. Ellijay, GA - 1 hour and 20 minutes southeast by car
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Location:
Ellijay, GAHighlights:
If small-town charm, apple orchards, and wine tastings sound like your kind of day, Ellijay is a dream. It’s a cozy mountain town that’s just as lovely in spring bloom as it is during crisp fall harvests.Recommended For:
Couples, families, fall foliage seekers, foodies, and antique lovers looking for a scenic day out.What I Love: ♥
Apple picking in the fall, wine tastings year-round, and a quaint downtown full of shops, cafés, and character.- Visit in autumn to enjoy hayrides, fresh cider, and u-pick orchards—Ellijay is Georgia’s apple capital for a reason.
- Tour local vineyards for mountain-grown wines, peaceful views, and tastings with southern hospitality.
- Stroll through historic downtown Ellijay, where you’ll find antique stores, bakeries, and charming boutiques.
- Celebrate the season at the Apple Blossom Festival each April or the Apple Festival in October.
- Golf in the fresh mountain air at one of the region’s well-kept courses.
Distance from Chattanooga:
Just about 1 hour and 20 minutes southeast by car.How to Get to Ellijay:
Take I-75 South to US-411 South, then continue on GA-282 East toward Ellijay. Scenic mountain roads make the drive a joy in any season.7. Fort Mountain State Park
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Location:
Chatsworth, GAHighlights:
If your crew loves hiking, lake views, and a little mystery, Fort Mountain is a fantastic day trip. With scenic trails, a swimmable lake, and an ancient stone wall at the summit, it’s an easy win for birthday adventures or spontaneous outdoor escapes.Recommended For:
Families, hikers, nature lovers, history fans, and anyone looking for a rewarding but accessible mountain experience.What I Love: ♥
The variety of trails for all skill levels, the charming lakeside beach, and the curious ancient wall that keeps history buffs guessing.- Hike over 60 miles of forested trails that loop past wildflowers, creeks, and ridge views—great for all ages and fitness levels.
- Swim in the refreshing lake or relax on the sandy beach during the warmer months.
- Picnic lakeside or in wooded day-use areas equipped with tables, grills, and restrooms—perfect for a birthday lunch.
- Climb to the peak to see the mysterious 855-foot-long stone wall that’s believed to date back hundreds of years.
- Stay overnight in a cabin or campsite if one day just isn't enough.
Distance from Chattanooga:
Just a 1-hour drive southeast—perfect for a full day of fun.How to Get to Fort Mountain State Park:
From Chattanooga, take I-75 South to Exit 336 in Dalton. Follow US-76 East to Chatsworth and then take GA-52 up the mountain to the park entrance at 181 Fort Mountain State Park Rd.8. Foster Falls - 1-hour drive northwest
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Location:
Sequatchie, TNHighlights:
If you’re up for a dramatic waterfall and a refreshing swim just an hour from home, Foster Falls is calling. It’s a local favorite for summer dips, scenic hikes, and postcard-worthy views.Recommended For:
Hikers, swimmers, climbers, and anyone looking for an easy-access Tennessee adventure.What I Love: ♥
The powerful 60-foot waterfall, the option to hike to both the top and base, and the fact that it's part of the stunning Fiery Gizzard Trail.- Walk a short trail to a cliffside overlook with sweeping views of Foster Falls.
- Hike to the base of the falls to enjoy the cooling spray and a deep, clear pool that’s great for a cautious swim.
- Challenge yourself with a section of the 13-mile Fiery Gizzard Trail, one of Tennessee’s most celebrated hiking routes.
- Bring lunch—the picnic area is shaded and peaceful, perfect after a morning on the trail.
Distance from Chattanooga:
Just a 1-hour drive northwest, making it one of the region’s best spontaneous escapes.How to Get to Foster Falls:
Take US-27 North out of Chattanooga, then merge onto TN-111 North. From there, follow signs to 498 Foster Rd., Sequatchie, TN.Family-friendly Day Trips from Chattanooga:
9. Gatlinburg - a 2-hour and 15-minute drive from Chattanooga
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Location:
Gatlinburg, TNHighlights:
Looking for a blend of wild mountain trails and lively downtown charm? Gatlinburg gives you both—whether you’re chasing waterfalls or sipping moonshine on Main Street, it’s an unforgettable Smokies getaway.Recommended For:
Hikers, families, first-time visitors to the Smokies, couples, and foodies seeking both nature and novelty.What I Love: ♥
Direct access to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, classic Southern treats, and the buzzing, walkable downtown complete with free summer trolleys.- Start your day with a hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park—look for wildlife, waterfalls, and iconic views along trails like Alum Cave and Laurel Falls.
- Stroll through The Village, a collection of European-style boutiques tucked just off the main strip.
- Indulge in local fudge, handmade candy, or a dozen mini doughnuts from beloved downtown sweet shops.
- Visit a moonshine distillery (or two) for tastings, live music, and a little Appalachian history with your pour.
- Ride the free open-air shuttle along Parkway during the summer—easy, breezy, and perfect for sightseeing without the parking hassle.
Distance from Chattanooga:
About a 2-hour and 15-minute drive northeast through scenic mountain roads.How to Get to Gatlinburg:
Take I-75 North to I-40 East, then follow US-441 South straight into Gatlinburg. Be prepared for some winding roads and stunning views along the way.10. Hiwassee River
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Location:
Hiwassee River, TNHighlights:
Looking to cool off, float a gentle river, or cast a line surrounded by forest? The Hiwassee River is a local favorite for tubing, rafting, fishing, and slow summer days spent on the water.Recommended For:
Families, paddlers, anglers, and anyone seeking a peaceful but adventurous summer outing in nature.What I Love: ♥
The variety of water activities for all ages, the relaxing scenery of the Cherokee National Forest, and easy access to rentals during the warmer months.- Float down the upper Hiwassee’s class I-II rapids in a tube or inflatable kayak—it’s perfect for a beginner-friendly river adventure.
- Fish for trout and bass along the calmer lower sections, known for their quiet beauty and fewer crowds.
- Paddle a kayak or SUP board past riverside cliffs, old bridges, and the charming historic towns of Charleston and Reliance.
- Rent gear from local outfitters in the summer, or bring your own equipment to explore at your own pace.
Distance from Chattanooga:
Around 1 hour and 15 minutes northeast, depending on which access point you choose.How to Get to the Hiwassee River:
Take US-64 East toward Cleveland, then follow signs for the Hiwassee River Blueway near Reliance or Charleston. Several boat ramps and outfitter stations are available along the river.Plan Your Trip