Our Guide to the Chattanooga Area’s 5 Best Blue Holes
Things are really starting to heat up in Chattanooga. With summer finally upon us, there is no better time than now to get out and splash into some of the area’s best blue hole spots! Whether you’re looking for adventure or fun with the kiddos, we have you covered with our top five picks:
1. North Chick Blue Hole
Hike Distance: <1 mile
Hike Difficulty: Easy
Location: 297 Montlake Rd, Soddy-Daisy, TN 37379
For only a 20 minute drive from downtown Chattanooga to Soddy Daisy area, the North Chick Blue Hole feels like a serious oasis. North Chickamauga Creek is nestled between Signal and Mowbray mountains and features several deep swimming holes along the way. For an easy mile hike in, you can find a small secluded pool or one of the larger spots with deep water, rope swing and boulders for those who aren’t game for swimming.
2. Foster Falls
Hike Distance: Less than 2 miles
Hike Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Foster Falls, 498 Foster Falls Rd, Sequatchie, TN 37374
Sixty-foot waterfall leading to a large deep pool of pristine water … need we say more? Located about 40 minutes from downtown Chattanooga, Foster Falls is one of Tennessee’s most beautiful waterfalls. Regardless of whether you like to swim or not, it’s a must see! But, if you do wanna get your feet wet, this popular pool is a great spot. Prepare for the potential of a crowd (I mean, it’s that good of a spot), but it’s well worth the steep, rocky hike to get there.
3. Blue Hole Ocoee
Hike Distance: <1 mile
Hike Difficulty: Easy
Location: 3976-3978 TN-40, Turtletown, TN 37391
This is the farthest from downtown Chattanooga that our list is going to take you, but we promise that the gorgeous waters of the Ocoee won’t let you down. There are traditional blue holes along the river, as well as smaller pools, rocks for sunbathing and underwater tunnels perfect for snorkeling or impressing friends. Be sure to call the Ocoee Whitewater Center at 423-496-5197 to make sure the water level is safe for swimming and pack $3 to cover the parking fee. Once you’re finished for the day, we recommend eating at the Ocoee Dam Deli & Diner which has yummy food that’s just as clever as their name. Bonus—come on your birthday and eat for FREE. Just be prepared to wear a silly hat … and don’t say we didn’t warn you.
4. Desoto Falls
Hike Distance: <1 mile
Hike Difficulty: Easy - Moderate
Location: 7104 Desoto Pkwy NE, Fort Payne, AL 35967
This marks our second waterfall plunge pool to make this list…but it’s just too beautiful to leave out. Located in Mentone, Alabama about a 45 minute drive from downtown Chattanooga, Desoto State Park’s Desoto Falls is a must see. Stay on top of the falls (but far away from the plunge, please) for some smaller pools and rock hopping, or make your way down to where the cascades of the 104-foot waterfall end up for a deep pool. The hike down can be steep and difficult for those without steady footing, so wear your walking shoes and be careful bringing the little ones! If you need directions or hiking recommendations, stop by the Desoto State Park Visitor’s Center and get all the info you need, plus some of the rich history of the area.
5. Big Soddy Creek Gulf
Hike Distance: 1.2 miles
Hike Difficulty: Easy
Location: 11721 Back Valley Rd, Soddy-Daisy, TN 37379
Last but not least, Big Soddy Creek Gulf makes our list for its family-friendly accessibility and beautiful surroundings. Enjoy a short and easy hike for just over a mile before making your way to this creek and its deep swimming holes. Bring the kiddos, go to the restroom before you go (there are none close by) pack a lunch and make a day of it! Just be sure to clean up afterwards and keep the area just as beautiful for the next family. Bonus—dogs are welcome as long as they’re on a leash.
