In less than an hour, adventurous hikers can go from the city streets to a lush and vibrant forest. On a recent visit to Chattanooga, Tennessee*, I tackled this scenic trek and was rewarded with magnificent waterfall views. Those in the know about Tennessee’s best waterfall hikes may already know where to find all this natural beauty. For tourists (and locals looking to expand their horizons), here’s a quick guide to discovering the magic of Foster Falls Recreation Area.
The region’s namesake waterfall greets visitors after a short but steep .6-mile out-and-back hike. With an elevation gain of 154 feet and a moderate ranking on AllTrails, most hikers will be able to handle the journey. Even so, visitors will need to watch their step on the downhill climb to the falls. During my recent hike, I saw families with young children manage the trek with no trouble. However, another hiker found the descent too steep. Without a rope or handrails to hold, the trail may not suit guests with balance and mobility issues.
Get a preview of the Foster Falls path and learn more about the area in this photo guide. Curious to explore even more cool hikes from throughout the United States? Peruse Outdoors Wire’s collection of hiking guides here. If you’re a hiker planning a trip to Tennessee or Georgia, you’ll also want to check out this article on Rock City.