Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center: Chattanooga's 317-Acre Nature Oasis
Just 15 minutes from downtown Chattanooga, Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center spans 317 acres of pristine wilderness, blending outdoor adventures with botanical gardens and wildlife exhibits. Committed to making nature accessible to all, regardless of location or background, this premier destination offers 15 miles of trails, live native animals indoors and outdoors, and even a treehouse. Whether hiking, biking, paddling, fishing, or simply unwinding amid nature's beauty, it's the perfect restorative escape.
History
In 1956, Chattanooga lawyer John Oliver Chambliss and his wife Margaret crafted a scenic drive through this stunning land between Lookout Mountain and Lookout Creek, south of downtown. Dubbed a 'Riding'—an 18th-century term for picturesque routes enjoyed by horse or carriage—they promoted it to motorists during the Automobile's Golden Age. Today, it has evolved into a conservation hub with a teaching arboretum and nature center, hosting over 1,000 plant species including 150+ trees. More than 40 native East Tennessee animals act as 'Animal Ambassadors,' educating visitors on habitats and conservation.
Plan Your Visit
Abundant outdoor options await. Walk, run, bike, or drive the 3-mile gravel loop through hardwood forests, wildflower meadows, and wetlands. Paddle Lookout Creek with easy canoe/kayak access. Hike 10+ miles of trails linking to national parkland up to Lookout Mountain's summit. Join guided hikes, volunteer to remove invasives, or meet resident wildlife like critically endangered red wolves, bobcats, sandhill cranes, and a bald eagle. Contribute to the iNaturalist project with your photos. Shop native plants from the on-site nursery to enhance your garden.
Hiking
Interconnected trails suit all levels across five biomes. The popular 2.7-mile Profile Trail showcases diverse landscapes and connects to Lookout Mountain's longer paths, leading to Sunset Rock's panoramic Chattanooga views. Download a free trail map to customize your adventure.
Paddling
Launch from Lookout Creek's banks—a gentle Tennessee River tributary. Paddle upstream to Paddler's Perch on the Tennessee River Blueway or downstream to Cummings Bottoms. Bring your gear or rent canoes (fee applies). Monitor TVA lake levels and Chickamauga Dam releases for safety.
Swincar E-Spider Adventure Tours
Experience the terrain on a Swincar E-Spider, an electric off-road vehicle for a stable, thrilling ride guided by Adventure Sports Innovation experts. Drivers must be 18+ and licensed; tandem models seat two, including accessible options.
Tickets
Open daylight hours; reserve passes for visitors or join as a member for unlimited access.
Nearby Restaurants
Hillbilly Willy’s
Slow-smoked premium meats with housemade BBQ sauce; don't miss the chocolate peanut butter pie.
Mojo Burrito St. Elmo
Customize Tex-Mex burritos at this local Chattanooga spot. Happy Hour features draft specials and munchies.
Purple Daisy Picnic Cafe
Casual BBQ at the base of Lookout Mountain or pack picnics for trailside dining.
You might also like:
How to get around Chattanooga, Tennessee
Chattanooga - playlist by Lonely Planet | Spotify
16 free things to do in Chattanooga, Tennessee
