Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center

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Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center is an environmental learning hub that reconnects Chattanoogans with nature. It offers about 14 miles of trails and roads to explore. Mountain slopes, meadows, a creek sidewalk, and wildflower paths – there are many different options. Come and try them all. Their trails also connect to trails on the slope of Lookout Mountain maintained by the National Park Service. From the valley floor, use our trail system to connect with NPS trails to hike to Sunset Rock, Point Park, and Covenant College.

Meet Beautiful Creatures

Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center cares for a broad collection of wildlife representing 29 species and nearly 40 individuals, all native to east Tennessee. They call them their Animal Ambassadors. They use many of these Animal Ambassadors in our educational programs. The animals help thousands of school-age children and adults learn more about each species, their habitats, and how we, humans, can help them.

Swincar E-Spider Adventure Tour

These electrically powered off-road vehicles provide a very unique driving experience, with a comfortable and stable ride. Swincar e-Spiders make almost no sound, run entirely on electricity and have a very light footprint when it comes to wearing down the roads and causing potholes. With no windshield or enclosed cabin, they're also the best way (aside from on foot) to see the property and experience the outdoors while getting a view of the entire Reflection Riding loop.

Paddling at Reflection Riding

Rent a canoe at Reflection Riding or bring your own boat to tour beautiful Lookout Creek; it's one of the top things to do in Chattanooga and can be fun for the entire family. Lookout Creek forms much of our western border and makes for a beautiful place to paddle in the right conditions. Most of the time, Lookout flows North toward the Tennessee River at a gentle pace and you can expect nice flat water with little current and nothing but beautiful scenery. Often, rain and dam releases create strong currents in the creek's waters.