Dive Into These 5 Fun Chattanooga Water Activities

Posted by on Thursday, June 16th, 2016 at 10:46am.

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 city’s best water activities. Whether you’re looking for adventure or fun with the kiddos, we have you covered with our top five picks: 

 1. The Passage (Waterfall Stairs)

1 Broad Street, Aquarium Plaza, Chattanooga, TN 37402

Located just between downtown Chattanooga and the Tennessee River, The Passage is a permanent outdoor exhibit marking the beginning of the Trail of Tears. The seven, six-foot ceramic disks along the wall tell the story of the Cherokee Nation and offer an opportunity for parents to teach kids about the removal of the Cherokee tribes all the way from Ross' s Landing in Chattanooga to Oklahoma. The kids will enjoy splashing around on the waterfall stairs, while also learning about the historical significance of the area.


2. Whitewater Rafting and Tubing on the Ocoee/Hiwassee 

Enjoy a local adventure with a professional rafting company’s guided tour of the Ocoee, where Class III-IV rapids offer an adrenaline rush for adults and children ages 14 and older. If you’re looking for a more relaxing experience on a local river, try tubing along the wide, rolling waters of the Hiwassee. Outdoor Chattanooga recommends that trip for anyone ages 6 and older. 


3. Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park/SoakYa Water Park

1730 Lakeview Drive, Rossville, GA 30741

Going to Lake Winnepesaukah is a Chattanooga rite of passage—but don’t forget they also have a water park! Featuring a lazy river and wave lagoon, as well as water slides and a toddler splash park, SOAKya Water Park is a great way to beat the heat as a family. From now until September 5, guests can purchase an all-inclusive ticket to enjoy both Lake Winnie and the water park for $33.95 ($16.95 for children 2 and under and seniors 55 and older).


4. Stand-up Paddleboarding/Kayaking on the Tennessee River

Get up close and personal with the beautiful Tennessee River by renting a SUP or kayak from L2 Outside or enjoying a guided excursion from Outdoor Chattanooga. Either of these activities can provide fun for the whole family, but be sure to check for fluctuating river levels if you plan on going your own way rather than with a guide. Outdoor Chattanooga recommends referring to the Tennessee Valley Authority's Chickamauga Dam hourly release schedule or calling 423-751-2264 before putting on. Levels above 35,000 CFS (cubic feet per second) make paddling upstream a workout.


5. Splash in the Coolidge Park fountain

150 River St, Chattanooga, TN 37405

Coolidge Park, featuring 13 acres of public land nestled underneath the Walnut Street Bridge next to the beautiful Tennessee River, is a Chattanooga favorite for weekend fun. The park includes a restored carousel, a canoe-kayak launch, an interactive water feature and plenty of green space for frisbee, running or playing catch. The interactive water feature is a great option for kids, with seating all around for parents to watch from a distance. 

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