Chickamauga Dam
A TVA hydroelectric dam creating a vast reservoir and a scenic riverwalk, offering recreation and a glimpse into engineering.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Chickamauga Dam
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A TVA hydroelectric dam creating a vast reservoir and a scenic riverwalk, offering recreation and a glimpse into engineering.
"The Tennessee Riverwalk is a favorite for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities."
Book Train Tickets Early
The 'Chickamauga Turn' train ride is popular; book your tickets well in advance for the 2025 season!
Explore the Riverwalk
The 13-mile Tennessee Riverwalk is perfect for biking or a peaceful walk. Many access points available.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tennessee Riverwalk
Along the Tennessee River
A scenic 13-mile paved path perfect for biking, running, and leisurely strolls with river views.

Chickamauga Dam Lock System
Chickamauga Dam
Witness the impressive engineering of the lock system used to navigate boats between different water levels.

Chickamauga Reservoir
Chickamauga Lake
A popular spot for various water activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.

Tennessee Valley Railroad 'Chickamauga Turn'
Departs from Chattanooga
A scenic day trip train ride from Chattanooga to Chickamauga, GA, offering a unique perspective.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Chickamauga Dam
Recreational Access & Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Train Tickets Early
The 'Chickamauga Turn' train ride is popular; book your tickets well in advance for the 2025 season!
Explore the Riverwalk
The 13-mile Tennessee Riverwalk is perfect for biking or a peaceful walk. Many access points available.
Kayak Dam Tours
Consider a guided kayak adventure through the Chickamauga Dam Lock for a unique group experience.
Fishing Hotspots
Anglers enjoy catfishing and bass fishing on Lake Chickamauga.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Train Tickets Early
The 'Chickamauga Turn' train ride is popular; book your tickets well in advance for the 2025 season!
Explore the Riverwalk
The 13-mile Tennessee Riverwalk is perfect for biking or a peaceful walk. Many access points available.
Kayak Dam Tours
Consider a guided kayak adventure through the Chickamauga Dam Lock for a unique group experience.
Fishing Hotspots
Anglers enjoy catfishing and bass fishing on Lake Chickamauga.
Unique Stays Nearby
Check out unique Airbnb stays like 'The Silo at Gene Acres' if you're visiting the area.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Chickamauga Dam for its recreational opportunities, particularly the scenic Tennessee Riverwalk and the vast reservoir perfect for water activities. The dam's engineering and the lock system are often highlighted as impressive. Some visitors enjoy the unique train ride experience offered by the Tennessee Valley Railroad.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Chickamauga Dam is easily accessible from Chattanooga by car. The Tennessee Riverwalk also provides pedestrian and bike access to areas near the dam. If you're looking for a scenic route, consider the Tennessee Valley Railroad's 'Chickamauga Turn' train ride which departs from Chattanooga.
While direct public transportation to the dam itself might be limited, the city of Chattanooga has bus routes that can get you close to the Tennessee Riverwalk, which offers access to the dam area.
There are numerous parking areas and access points along the 13-mile Tennessee Riverwalk. Many visitors find convenient parking in downtown Chattanooga and then bike or walk towards the dam.
Yes, vehicle traffic can cross the Chickamauga Dam, offering views of the Tennessee River and the reservoir.
Tours of the Chickamauga Dam have been offered, particularly for its anniversary. It's best to check the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) website for current tour availability and booking information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Accessing the grounds around Chickamauga Dam and the Tennessee Riverwalk is generally free. However, specific attractions like the Tennessee Valley Railroad's 'Chickamauga Turn' train ride require advance ticket purchase.
The grounds and the Tennessee Riverwalk are typically open from dawn to dusk. Specific operational hours for the dam's facilities or any potential tours should be confirmed with the TVA.
No, the Tennessee Riverwalk is a public park and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy walking, running, and biking along its 13 miles for free.
Pricing for the 'Chickamauga Turn' train ride varies depending on the class of service and any special events. It's recommended to check the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum website for the most up-to-date fare information.
Yes, guided kayak tours that go through the Chickamauga Dam Lock are available. These often need to be booked in advance, especially for groups.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a variety of activities including fishing, boating, kayaking, paddleboarding on the Chickamauga Reservoir, and walking, running, or biking along the Tennessee Riverwalk.
Yes, Chickamauga Reservoir is a popular spot for fishing, known for species like catfish and bass.
The Tennessee Riverwalk is a 13-mile paved path along the Tennessee River, offering beautiful views and a great space for outdoor recreation. It's a favorite spot for locals.
Yes, boats and guided kayak tours can go through the Chickamauga Dam lock system to navigate between the upper and lower sections of the river.
While the immediate area around the dam is more focused on the riverwalk and reservoir, nearby areas like The Pocket Shirley Miller Wildflower Trail offer beautiful nature walks and waterfalls.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly at Chickamauga Dam. However, the nearby city of Chattanooga offers a wide array of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining.
Yes, there are several scenic spots along the Tennessee Riverwalk and around the reservoir that are perfect for picnics. Bring your own food and enjoy the views.
Chickamauga, GA, offers local dining options. If you take the 'Chickamauga Turn' train, you'll have opportunities to explore eateries in the town.
Typically, there are no permanent food vendors at the dam itself. It's advisable to pack snacks or plan to dine in Chattanooga or Chickamauga town.
Chattanooga has a vibrant food scene. Near the Riverwalk, you can find everything from breweries to Southern cuisine. Exploring areas like the Bluff View Art District or the North Shore will offer many choices.
📸 📸 Photography
Great photo opportunities include the dam structure itself, the lock system, boats navigating the locks, the expansive Chickamauga Reservoir, and the scenic views along the Tennessee Riverwalk.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful golden hour hues. Sunrise and sunset over the reservoir can be stunning.
Yes, you can take photos from the areas around the Chickamauga Dam Lock, capturing the impressive scale of the lock gates and the vessels passing through.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, for security reasons, it's always wise to be mindful of any posted signs or restrictions, especially near operational areas of the dam.
The Riverwalk offers diverse photographic subjects, including river views, city skyline glimpses, wildlife, and the changing seasons, especially in spring with blooming flowers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If your family enjoys trains, the Tennessee Valley Railroad's 'Chickamauga Turn' offers a fun day trip. It's a great way to see the countryside and visit the charming town of Chickamauga. Remember to book tickets well in advance, as this popular attraction sells out quickly.
🎣 Anglers and Water Sports Enthusiasts
For a truly unique water experience, consider a guided kayak tour through the Chickamauga Dam Lock. This allows you to witness the impressive engineering of the dam up close while navigating the waterway. It's an adventure that combines outdoor activity with a glimpse into the dam's operational significance.
🚶♀️ Walkers, Runners, and Cyclists
While the immediate dam area is more about the structure and reservoir, the Riverwalk connects you to other green spaces and parks, offering diverse routes. It's a well-maintained and popular trail, so you'll likely encounter other outdoor enthusiasts, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel: Chickamauga Dam
The dam's most visible impact on navigation is the Chickamauga Dam Lock. This impressive system allows vessels to safely transition between the upper and lower levels of the Tennessee River, overcoming the significant elevation change. Witnessing a boat or kayak navigate through this lock is a fascinating glimpse into the dam's operational function.
Beyond its industrial purpose, Chickamauga Dam created Chickamauga Reservoir, a vast body of water that has become a hub for recreation. This transformation from a flowing river to a lake-like expanse has opened up opportunities for boating, fishing, and watersports, making the area a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Recreation on the Tennessee Riverwalk and Reservoir
Chickamauga Reservoir itself is a playground for water sports enthusiasts. Kayaking and paddleboarding are incredibly popular, with guided tours even offering the unique experience of passing through the dam's lock system. For anglers, the reservoir is a known hotspot for catfishing and bass fishing, providing ample opportunities for a successful catch.
For those seeking a different kind of adventure, the Tennessee Valley Railroad offers the 'Chickamauga Turn' train ride. This excursion takes passengers on a scenic journey from Chattanooga to Chickamauga, Georgia, providing a nostalgic and enjoyable way to experience the region's landscape. It's a popular activity, so booking tickets in advance is highly recommended.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit