Unrivaled Access to Nature

Integrate arts and culture with nature, celebrating Chattanooga's diverse heritage.

For 16 gorgeous miles encompassing 150 acres, the Tennessee Riverpark and accompanying Riverwalk  parallel the Tennessee River’s winding journey through Chattanooga

A river runs through all that we do, and the Riverpark – established in 1987 and jointly managed by city and county governments – best exemplifies this.

This afternoon, you could run a marathon, fish off the public piers, savor seafood at a popular restaurant, picnic at Coolidge Park, launch a stand-up paddleboard as the sun sets. The Riverwalk has possibly become the most popular pathway within our city, as the larger Riverpark offers a container for so much wellbeing, community and joy.

It started with two meager miles and a brave dream that took a decade to become reality.

What if we approached our river differently?

What if we created a trail so people could flourish and thrive?

Two miles. A decade of prior work. Today, it unites the city, heralded across the state and world as a laudable example of effective place-making.

With an additional 12-mile greenway coming soon, the Riverwalk stretches for 25 miles as the longest ongoing public space in the county.

Our city just released a comprehensive Parks and Outdoors Plan.

The first of its kind in 25 years, supported by an $18 million operating budget that increased from $2 million the year before.

Now, Chattanoogans with disabilities have increased access to parks intentionally designed and used for therapeutic recreation.
Children Hiking

Our Access to Nature Partners

Partner Spotlight

We have champions across the city: nonprofits, families, public and private leaders, gutsy, DIY individuals who start working, come hell or high water.

Trust for Public Land

Trust for Public Land’s Tennessee chapter is responsible for protecting more than 22,000 acres and providing access for nearly 30,000 Tennesseans.

Read More About Our Efforts

November 21, 2024

Challenges to Chattanooga's Unrivaled Access to Nature

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What if a National Park City designation could add a new chapter to our city’s story, allowing us to double down on our intention and commitment?

What if the best was yet to come?

What if we had more accessibility on trails and around the city for those who are differently-abled?