Cravens House
Historic mountain home and Civil War site on Lookout Mountain, offering scenic views and challenging hiking trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for sunset views
Cravens House
Best Time
Best for sunset views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic mountain home and Civil War site on Lookout Mountain, offering scenic views and challenging hiking trails.
"This is a hidden gem of the Chattanooga area. Great for a quiet picnic or an easy afternoon stroll."
Start at Cravens House
Use Cravens House as your trailhead for hikes to Sunset Rock. :world_map:
Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can be hazardous and challenging; good footwear is essential. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cravens House
Lookout Mountain
Historic mountain home offering summer tours and magnificent views of Chattanooga.
Sunset Rock Hike
Via Cravens House Trail
A challenging yet rewarding hike with breathtaking sunset views and unique rock formations.
Civil War History
Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park
Explore significant Civil War battle sites and rich historical context scattered throughout the park.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trailhead Access & Parking
Trail Conditions & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Start at Cravens House
Use Cravens House as your trailhead for hikes to Sunset Rock. :world_map:
Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can be hazardous and challenging; good footwear is essential. :athletic_shoe:
Check trail markings
Trails are not always well-marked, so pay attention to your route. :compass:
Pack water & snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled, especially on longer hikes. :water_wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
Start at Cravens House
Use Cravens House as your trailhead for hikes to Sunset Rock. :world_map:
Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can be hazardous and challenging; good footwear is essential. :athletic_shoe:
Check trail markings
Trails are not always well-marked, so pay attention to your route. :compass:
Pack water & snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled, especially on longer hikes. :water_wave:
Consider driving to Sunset Rock
For a shorter hike, drive directly to Sunset Rock. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Cravens House is lauded as a hidden gem offering beautiful views and historical significance. Visitors enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, the opportunity for picnics, and the challenging hiking trails that connect to Sunset Rock. Some note that trails can be poorly marked and the roads leading up are narrow, but the overall experience is highly recommended for its scenic beauty and historical depth.
"This is a hidden gem of the Chattanooga area. Great for a quiet picnic or an easy afternoon stroll. For the more adventurous hiker there are also trails that connect to more technical trails on the side of lookout. For the historian this place is significant and lots of rich history scattered around the park."
Adam Reiss
"I stopped by when I had an hour to spare and it was so beautiful and peaceful! There are hidden pathways all over the place but it was mid-July so the greenery covered up a lot of them (idk how many or where they all were… that’s just my assumption based on the few I did see).
It was after hours so there weren’t any tours going on but the gate was open so I assumed it was okay to walk around. I didn’t wander off too far just in case I wasn’t supposed to be there though.
Lots to explore, and it was sooo hot and it started getting late, so I didn’t have enough time to see as much as I wanted to but it was definitely worth the short drive up the mountain to see. (I didn’t want to get lost up there after dark so I left before sunset lol … I’ve heard it’s haunted… 😱)"
Anna Carney
"I used Craven House parking area to hike to Sunset Rock. About a 3 mile in-and-out hike through the woods with many lovely vistas.
The rock formations scattered throughout the woods are amazing.
On a clear day, the views of Chattanooga from Craven‘s House are magnificent. It’s a lovely spot to relax and soak in the beauty of the area."
SVA
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cravens House offers a good starting point with paved parking. The road leading up is narrow for the last quarter mile. Some users suggest heading up the Ruby Falls way to find the trailhead.
The trails can be poorly marked and maintained, with debris. Some sections are hazardous and challenging, so it's advisable to be prepared and aware of your surroundings.
Yes, you can drive to Sunset Rock for a shorter hike. Alternatively, you can take a longer hike starting from Cravens House.
Cravens House is a recommended starting point for many hikes, including the trail to Sunset Rock. 
While specific directions can vary, many visitors find it by heading up Lookout Mountain, with the final approach being a paved road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tours of the Cravens House are available during the summer. The grounds and trails are generally accessible, though it's best to confirm operating hours.
Access to the trails and the Cravens House grounds is typically free, though specific park fees might apply for certain areas within the Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park.
Summer tours are mentioned, but specific daily operating hours for the house and grounds should be verified, especially if visiting outside of peak season.
Parking at the Cravens House area is generally free, offering a convenient base for exploring the area.
Some visitors have reported the gate being open after hours, allowing for exploration, but it's advisable to be cautious and aware of any posted restrictions.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
From Cravens House, you can enjoy magnificent views of Chattanooga on a clear day.
While there are trails connecting to more technical ones, the immediate area around Cravens House can offer pleasant strolls, though greenery might obscure some paths.
Hikes from Cravens House, like to Sunset Rock, can range from moderate to challenging, with some hazardous and steep sections.
Yes, Cravens House is a significant historical site with rich history related to the Civil War, offering a glimpse into the past.
The location offers beautiful scenery, unique rock formations, and great views, making it a popular spot for photographers.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the panoramic views of Chattanooga, the historic Cravens House architecture, and the unique rock formations found along the trails.
Absolutely! Sunset Rock is renowned for its breathtaking sunset views, making it a prime location for photographers.
Landscape photography, historical site photography, and even wedding/elopement photography are popular due to the scenic beauty and historical significance.
Late afternoon for sunset and golden hour light offers stunning opportunities. Morning light can also be beautiful for capturing the landscape.
Be mindful of trail conditions, especially if they are poorly marked or hazardous. Ensure you have good lighting and a stable camera for any challenging terrain.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be mindful that some trails are challenging and poorly marked, so keep a close eye on children and stick to well-trodden paths. Packing plenty of water and snacks is essential, especially during warmer months. 🚶♀️ Hikers & Outdoor Enthusiasts
+1 Be prepared for potentially rough terrain, inconsistent trail markings, and the possibility of encountering hazardous sections. Consider downloading offline maps or using a GPS device for navigation. The rock formations and panoramic vistas make the effort worthwhile. 🏛️ History Buffs
Take advantage of the summer tours to learn about the house's significance and the battles fought on Lookout Mountain. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Trails & Routes
For those seeking a less strenuous experience, driving directly to Sunset Rock provides access to a shorter hike.
It's important to note that trail markings can be inconsistent, so having a map or GPS can be helpful. The Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park encompasses these trails, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Some hikers have reported seeing rock climbers on these trails, indicating the varied terrain and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Historical Significance
The house itself offers a glimpse into the past, with summer tours providing context about its history and the surrounding battlefields.The area was a crucial strategic point during the Civil War, particularly during the Battle of Lookout Mountain. Visitors can explore the grounds and imagine the historical events that unfolded here.
While the house is a focal point, the entire mountain is steeped in history. Understanding the context of the Civil War battles fought here enhances the visitor experience, connecting the natural beauty with the profound historical events that shaped the region.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit