Ultimate Guide to Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Chattanooga: Routes, Rentals, and Events
Chattanooga boasts diverse paddleboarding opportunities, from serene lakes to thrilling whitewater. Local expert Ben Friberg, the first to stand-up paddleboard (SUP) from Cuba to Key West, notes, "There are some pretty significant bodies of water in the area, so you’re pretty unlimited in the things you can do with a paddle and board."
With over 20 years exploring regional waterways, Friberg switched from kayaking to SUP four years ago. He paddles daily, enjoying Chattanooga's mountain vistas while spotting gar, turtles, and catfish below.
Passionate about the sport, Friberg founded the ChattaJack 31, a 31-mile SUP and kayak race from downtown to Nickajack Lake. Held during Chattanooga’s RiverRocks Festival on October 26, it draws enthusiasts nationwide.
Beginners can start easily. Here's how to maximize your Chattanooga SUP experience safely.
Where to Begin:
Rent boards from outfitters like River Canyon Kayak and Paddle Adventures, located 10 minutes downriver. They offer paddles through the Tennessee River Gorge—Tennessee’s Grand Canyon—with wildlife sightings like bald eagles, osprey, herons, deer, and turkeys. Rentals include lifejackets, paddles, and a pontoon return (3 hours total).
The season runs April to October. Wear synthetic shells for breezes, watch for boat traffic (especially barges), and use waterproof phone cases for emergencies.
Hit the Water:
Popular routes include Maclellan Island loops and Tennessee River Gorge paddles, accessible via L2 Boards and River Canyon Kayak Adventures. For personal boards, check Outdoor Chattanooga or the SUP Nooga Facebook group. Dottie Hodges' map lists put-ins:
- Williams Island Loop, ~4 miles: Winds through Baylor School; share with rowers. Access: Suck Creek boat ramp (1 mile upstream).
- Chickamauga Lake, various: Scenic loops. Access: Chickamauga Dam/Marina or Booker T. Washington State Park ramp.
- Chickamauga Dam to Downtown, ~7 miles: Access: Tennessee RiverPark or Riverwalk dock (Amnicola & Lost Mound Dr.).
- Downtown to Chickamauga Dam & Back, ~14 miles: Access: Coolidge Park; fight current outbound.
- Downtown to Nickajack (ChattaJack), ~31 miles: Stunning gorge views. Start: Coolidge Park/Ross’ Landing; end: Hales Bar Marina. Shorter: Suck Creek to Raccoon Mountain (vehicle shuttle needed).
Special Events:
- RiverRocks SUP Race, October 5, 2–3 p.m.: 6-mile finale of Tennessee’s SUP Championship Series for all levels.
- ChattaJack 31, October 26, 8 a.m.: 31-mile gorge challenge; mass start at Coolidge Park with shuttles.
- SUP Yoga & Fitness, varies: On-water sessions; reserve via Waconda Bay SUP Yoga.
- Guided Trips with L2 Boards: Weekly paddle/hike to Maclellan Island, an Audubon Society site.
