Kayaking in Chattanooga

Chattanooga Kayaking

Kayaking is a very popular activity in Chattanooga. The city sits right on the 652-mile Tennessee River, with several other rivers and creeks in the surrounding area. Both whitewater and flat water kayaking can be enjoyed in and around Chattanooga, ensuring that kayakers of all ages and abilities with find something to suit them in this city. Things to Do in Chattanooga

Best Kayaking Locations in Chattanooga

There are lots of great kayaking spots to find and enjoy in and around Chattanooga, making this one of Tennessee’s very best kayaking cities. If you’re looking to enjoy some kayaking at this location, check out a few of the top rated kayaking spots listed below.

1. Tennessee River

No mention of kayaking in Chattanooga can be complete without mentioning the famous Tennessee River. This huge, imposing waterway runs right through the center of the city and is one of the most popular kayaking spots for Chattanooga natives and tourists alike. A National Scenic River Trail runs through the town, with the Chattanooga Riverwalk offering a perfect launch site. Kayakers can simply float along the calm waters of this river and admire the city skyline, taking in views of monuments and landmarks like the Tennessee Aquarium and Walnut Street Bridge.

2. Ocoee River

The famous Ocoee River has featured in the Olympics back in 1996 and runs for 93 miles in total. This river is filled with Class-3 rapids and challenging sections, making it best-suited for experienced, skilled kayakers who want to test out their abilities and really give themselves a challenge. Rafting can also be enjoyed in this area and there's a great five mile stretch of the Ocoee River for serious kayakers to enjoy just a short drive away from Chattanooga.

3. Chickamauga Creek

Only a short drive outside of Chattanooga sits the scenic Chickamauga Creek, offering a variety of fun kayak launch spots and trails to try out. The West Fork of the creek offers some really calm waters, perfect for kayaking newbies and paddle boarding. A couple of small rapids can be found here too, with the northern section of the creek offering a bit more of a challenge for seasoned kayakers.

4. Lookout Creek

Arguably the best flatwater kayaking spot in the area, Lookout Creek can be found just a little way southwest of downtown Chattanooga. The beautiful Reflection Riding Nature Center and Arboretum provides a great launch point and some nice nature trails to explore as well. Sunset Rock ad Lookout Mountain can be spotted from this location and the waters tend to be very calm and perfectly suited for families.

Kayak Tours and Rentals in Chattanooga

Various kayaking companies and services can be found in and around Chattanooga. These kayak companies aim to please, offering all the kayak services you could hope to find. Check out the details below on a few of Chattanooga’s best kayak companies.

- Canoe Kayak Chattanooga - 9852 Mullins Cove Rd, Whitwell, TN 37397, Phone: 423-280-3250

Canoe Kayak Chattanooga runs a wide array of kayak and outdoor services and activities, including camping and cabins right on the side of the famous river. Tents, canoes, and kayaks can all be rented from this company, with very attractive prices on single and tandem kayaks in particular. Renting a kayak in Chattanooga is a great way to simply explore the Tennessee River at your own pace with total privacy.

- L2 Outside - 131 River St, Chattanooga, TN 37405, Phone: 423-531-7873

Conveniently located in Coolidge Park, this Chattanooga kayaking company runs kayak rentals and fun guided tours at any time of day. Both paddleboards and kayaks can be rented and enjoyed at this location, and the kayaking sunset tour is especially popular, offering a fun new way to enjoy the Scenic City as the sun starts to go down.