My last day here in Chattanooga, and I think I saved the best for last. I got up early to beat the heat (and the crowds!) and drove my way up the winding green tunneled road of Lookout Mountain to Rock City Gardens. Technically I was in Georgia, but whatever. Definitely visit this beautiful place if you’re ever in Chattanooga. The Railway Incline was fine, and Point Park was pleasant with great views and a couple of trails for hiking. But Rock City Gardens is so peaceful and beautiful. I can’t qualify it was a “hike” compared to other ventures, because it IS a garden. The woman who lived there originally intentionally mapped out the grounds to preserve the natural beauty. It is stunning. It took an hour to get through the whole route, including the very whimsical fairy caverns which are obviously supposed to delight children, but I found myself enjoying it as well. I’m glad I didn’t skip it. There are some super tight squeezes, FYI. Visit their website for all the details; I booked my ticket the day before. By 9:30am the parking lot was nearly full as I left, and I was so glad I had the grounds almost entirely to myself. Enjoy!
