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The Best Places to See Fall Colors in Chattanooga

Chattanooga offers tourists many opportunities to soak up the beauty of fall. The city is surrounded by mountains and trailed by the Tennessee River, setting the perfect backdrop for viewing the changing of the seasons. There are plenty of activities to get you excited about fall. From hiking adventures to Fall Festivals, there’s something for everyone. As the weather starts to get colder and mother nature begins to change colors, it’s time to escape to Chattanooga for a truly breathtaking experience.

Fall Color Cruise on the Southern Belle Riverboat

You can drink in the colors of fall from the deck of the Southern Belle Riverboat. Be sure to have your camera ready. It’s a three-hour cruise traveling down the Tennessee River Gorge where guests can absorb the colors mixing in with the waterfront. It’s a perfect opportunity for getting some great snaps of the landscape. The event isn’t just for sightseeing. There is live music and narration to complete the ambiance. Plus, guests have the opportunity to win prizes by playing a round of bingo. A Southern lunch is served on the boat featuring things like chicken, mixed greens, and sweet tea.

Signal Point

Situated on Signal Mountain, Signal Point overlooks the Tennessee River. As the river cuts through the Cumberland Plateau, the landscape divides into two different mountains. From Signal Point, you’ll have the perfect view of both Signal and Raccoon Mountains. If you want a great place to see mother nature change her colors, this will be it. There are plenty of hiking trails in and around the area to turn the trip into an adventure. But be aware that the view from the lookout might just take your breath away. Guests to the park have access to free parking.

Lookout Mountain

Minutes from downtown Chattanooga, Lookout Mountain is comprised of some of the best trails and viewpoints of the city and mother nature. There is Sunset Rock, one of the mountain’s most famous climbing areas. It offers visitors incredible views of the fall colors that extend past Tennessee and into Georgia and Alabama. There’s also Lula Lake Land Trust at the bottom of the mountain. It’s chock full of waterfalls, trails, and views that is worth a visit and lots of photos. Be sure to check Lula Lake’s website before heading out. The park is only open two Saturdays a month. If you plan on spending any time at Lookout Mountain, get a “Play for the Day Pass” which will allow you to experience some of the best attractions at a fraction of the cost.

Incline Railway

You can explore the many hiking trails of Lookout Mountain, or if hiking isn’t for you, there is the Incline Railway. The Incline Railway is one of Chattanooga’s most famous attractions. It has been in operation since 1895. It travels up and down Lookout Mountain and played a role in the Civil War. It’s the world’s steepest passenger railway at a 72.7% grade and offers another adventurous way to take in the colors of fall. Guests will have a panoramic view of the mountains as well as the valleys. At the top is a breathtaking lookout point and observation tower.

Rock City’s Rocktoberfest

If you love Fall and are looking for a way to celebrate the colder weather and changing colors, Rock City’s Rocktoberfest is for you. It’s one of the premiere seasonal events offering German music, food, and beer. Guests can participate in polka lessons or mingle with the costume characters. Kids can enjoy pumpkin painting and storytelling. There is a historical walking tour of the Rock City Gardens where you will learn all about the founder, Frieda Utermoehlen Carter’s, German heritage. The entire event is a real celebration of German culture and, of course, fall!

Fall in Chattanooga

See the mountains come alive this fall with our Discover Chattanooga travel package from Sweet Magnolia Tours. The three-night itinerary is full of unique and exciting ways to view the Scenic City while taking in the changing of the season. View the complete package for more information and contact our offices at (423) 498-4232 to make your reservations.