Edwards Point
Hike to breathtaking overlooks of the Tennessee River Gorge, featuring waterfalls and a charming suspension bridge.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Edwards Point
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to breathtaking overlooks of the Tennessee River Gorge, featuring waterfalls and a charming suspension bridge.
"Gorgeous views and a good workout make this hike unforgettable!"
👟 Wear sturdy hiking boots
The trail has rocky sections and can be muddy. Good footwear is essential for comfort and safety.
🗺️ Use a navigation app
While trails are marked, a navigation app like AllTrails can help with tricky sections.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.9 · 127 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Edwards Point Overlook
Signal Mountain
Breathtaking panoramic views of the Tennessee River Gorge await. A perfect spot for photos and a well-deserved rest.
Rainbow Falls
Trail to Edwards Point
A scenic waterfall along the trail, adding natural beauty to your hike. A refreshing sight on your journey.
Suspension Bridge
Trail to Edwards Point
A charming wooden suspension bridge offers a fun crossing and a touch of adventure on the trail.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Navigation & Markers
Weekend Crowds & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear sturdy hiking boots
The trail has rocky sections and can be muddy. Good footwear is essential for comfort and safety.
🗺️ Use a navigation app
While trails are marked, a navigation app like AllTrails can help with tricky sections.
🐶 Dogs are welcome (leashed)
Bring your furry friends along for the hike, but ensure they are leashed.
💧 Be prepared for water crossings
Several water crossings are part of the trail, so be ready to navigate them.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear sturdy hiking boots
The trail has rocky sections and can be muddy. Good footwear is essential for comfort and safety.
🗺️ Use a navigation app
While trails are marked, a navigation app like AllTrails can help with tricky sections.
🐶 Dogs are welcome (leashed)
Bring your furry friends along for the hike, but ensure they are leashed.
💧 Be prepared for water crossings
Several water crossings are part of the trail, so be ready to navigate them.
📸 Perfect for photographers
This spot offers stunning views and photogenic areas, ideal for engagement and wedding photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Edwards Point for its breathtaking Tennessee River Gorge views and rewarding hike. While the trail offers a good workout with its rocky and steep sections, the scenic beauty and photogenic spots make it well worth the effort. Some hikers note that trail markings can be inconsistent in places, and weekend parking can be limited.
"A somewhat challenging but worthwhile hike. Went here for the first time Memorial Day weekend and was not disappointed. The views are gorgeous and trail wasn’t too busy. Everyone we passed was friendly. Will do this again."
Kelly Burr
"As wedding photographers (The Nelsons Photography), this location couldn't be more beautiful. It is easily accessible, centered on Signal Mountain, and has multiple photogenic areas. This is a gorgeous place to shoot engagement/wedding photos and we were so happy with how our photos turned out."
Andrew & Emilie Nelson
"Excellent! Beautiful sights and a good workout. We started at the trailhead location at Ohio Avenue. The trail to Edward's Point Overlook has trees marked with white paint. We experienced a waterfall, running creek and Overlook views that made the challenge all worth while. We hiked the end of October 2022 and stayed at a hotel in downtown Chattanooga. The fall colors were beautiful. There are moments when you will want to take the time to place your foot carefully as you are stepping over tree roots and rocks. I twisted my ankle a couple times, but never injured myself. This usually happened when I was trying to hurry."
Brent Wentzel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common trailheads are from Rainbow Lake Wilderness Park or Ohio Avenue. Parking at Rainbow Lake Wilderness Park can be limited, especially on weekends.
There are discussions about overnight parking for backpacking trips. It's advisable to check local regulations or contact park authorities beforehand.
Edwards Point is located on Signal Mountain, just outside of Chattanooga. You'll typically drive to a trailhead like Rainbow Lake Wilderness Park and then hike.
Yes, leashed dogs are allowed on the Edwards Point Trail, making it a great option for hikers with canine companions.
The trail is marked with white blazes on trees, but it's recommended to use a navigation app like AllTrails for assistance, especially in less clear sections.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no explicit mention of an entrance fee for Edwards Point itself. Access is typically through public trailheads like Rainbow Lake Wilderness Park.
The trailheads generally do not have strict operating hours, but it's wise to be mindful of daylight and local park closing times if applicable.
No advance booking is required for hiking Edwards Point. It's a public trail accessible on a first-come, first-served basis.
Typically, no special permits are needed for day hiking Edwards Point. However, if planning an overnight backpacking trip, it's best to verify local regulations.
The trail is beautiful year-round, but late October offers stunning fall colors. Spring and summer provide lush greenery, though can be hotter.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The hike is typically around 6 miles out and back from Rainbow Lake Wilderness Park, offering a moderate challenge.
The trail is generally considered moderate, with some steep inclines, rocky sections, and occasional tree roots to navigate.
Expect spectacular, panoramic views of the Tennessee River Gorge from the overlook. The hike itself also offers beautiful scenery.
Restroom availability can vary by trailhead. It's advisable to check specific facilities at Rainbow Lake Wilderness Park or Ohio Avenue before your hike.
The trail is marked with white blazes on trees, but some sections can be less clear, making a navigation app helpful.
📸 📸 Photography
The main overlook provides stunning vistas. The suspension bridge and the waterfall are also highly photogenic spots along the trail.
Absolutely! The scenic overlooks and natural beauty make it a popular and gorgeous location for engagement and wedding photography.
Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour light for photography, but morning light can also be lovely. Consider the season for foliage.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local park authorities or the National Park Service for any restrictions before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or long exposures.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit