Nestled between the Tennessee River and the Cumberland Plateau, Chattanooga’s swimming spots offer refreshing escapes from the Southern heat. From the crystal-clear waters of North Chick Blue Hole to the cascading Foster Falls, natural swimming holes dot the region’s rocky landscape.
Signal Mountain’s Rainbow Lake and Middle Creek provide serene mountain swimming, while Warner Park Pool offers family-friendly splashing in the heart of the Scenic City. The surrounding area features hidden gems like Greeter Falls and DeSoto Falls for those seeking adventure.
Dive into the Scenic City’s best swimming spots!
Featured Swimming Spots in Chattanooga
- Foster Falls (Sequatchie)
- North Chick Blue Hole (Soddy Daisy)
- Big Soddy Creek Gulf (Soddy Daisy)
- Desoto Falls (Fort Payne)
- Greeter Falls (Altamont)
- Warner Park Pool and Spray Park
- Middle Creek/Suck Creek (Signal Mountain)
- Chester Frost Park (Hixson)
- Rainbow Lake (Signal Mountain)
- Glen Falls
Natural Swimming Spots in Chattanooga
Big Soddy Creek Gulf (Soddy Daisy)
What to Expect
Crystal-clear creek swimming holes
Description
Big Soddy Creek Gulf offers natural swimming spots along Big Soddy Creek, featuring crystal-clear water, waterfalls, and rock formations. The area provides easy hiking trails suitable for all skill levels, with scenic views and remnants of a historic coal mining community. It is an ideal location for family-friendly outdoor activities, including swimming and picnicking.
Where: Soddy Daisy | More Info: Big Soddy Creek Gulf
Chester Frost Park (Hixson)
What to Expect
Sandy beach on Chickamauga Lake
Description
Chester Frost Park offers a natural swimming spot with a large sandy beach area along Chickamauga Lake. The park provides picnic shelters, boat ramps, and numerous fishing opportunities. It also features an 18-hole disc golf course and trails for hiking. The beach is roped off from boats, ensuring a safe swimming environment. The park is pet-friendly and offers various camping options, including RV and tent sites with water and electrical hookups.
Where: Hixson | More Info: Chester Frost Park
Desoto Falls (Fort Payne)
What to Expect
Tallest waterfall in Alabama
Description
DeSoto Falls is a 104-foot waterfall located within DeSoto State Park. While not a swimming spot itself, the park offers an olympic-size swimming pool for visitors. The area is renowned for its natural beauty, featuring hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic views. DeSoto State Park provides a variety of accommodations and activities, making it a comprehensive outdoor destination.
Where: Fort Payne | More Info: Desoto Falls
Foster Falls (Sequatchie)
What to Expect
60-foot waterfall in a natural pool
Description
Foster Falls is a 60-foot natural waterfall located in South Cumberland State Park, Sequatchie County. It plunges into a deep, pristine pool surrounded by lush vegetation, offering a serene and invigorating swimming spot. The area features observation platforms and hiking trails, including a short, moderately challenging path to the base of the falls. Swimming is a popular activity here, especially during warmer months.
Where: Sequatchie | More Info: Foster Falls
Glen Falls
What to Expect
Three-tiered waterfall system
Description
Glen Falls is a scenic natural swimming spot located on Lookout Mountain, featuring three waterfalls and a circular wading pool. The trail offers a mix of wildflower meadows, interesting rock formations, and challenging rock scrambles. The swimming hole near the lower falls is accessible after sufficient rainfall, providing a unique natural swimming experience. Glen Falls is part of the Lookout Mountain Battlefield Park trail network.
Where: Chattanooga | More Info: Glen Falls
Greeter Falls (Altamont)
What to Expect
50-foot waterfall plunge pool
Description
Greeter Falls offers a natural swimming spot at the base of Lower Greeter Falls, featuring a stunning 50-foot waterfall and a picturesque plunge pool. The area is part of South Cumberland State Park, providing a scenic hike with varied terrain and multiple waterfalls. The trail includes a spiral staircase leading to the lower falls, making it accessible for those seeking a unique swimming experience amidst beautiful natural surroundings.
Where: Altamont | More Info: Greeter Falls
Middle Creek/Suck Creek (Signal Mountain)
What to Expect
Rock Slide and Cliff Jump
Description
Middle Creek offers a natural swimming experience with a deep pool, 15 ft. cliff jump, a cave, and a rock slide. The area is accessible via a scenic hike along the creek, requiring boulder scrambling and creek bed navigation. The unique combination of natural features makes it an exciting spot for adventure-seekers.
Where: Signal Mountain | More Info: Middle Creek/Suck Creek
North Chick Blue Hole (Soddy Daisy)
What to Expect
Turquoise waters and boulder-lined pools
Description
North Chick Blue Hole is a natural swimming spot located within the North Chickamauga Creek Gorge. It features crystal-clear turquoise waters, both shallow and deep pools, and boulders for jumping. The site is accessible via a scenic trail, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. It is a popular spot for swimming and cooling off during warm weather.
Where: Soddy Daisy | More Info: North Chick Blue Hole
Rainbow Lake (Signal Mountain)
What to Expect
Historic lake with suspension bridge
Description
Rainbow Lake is a natural swimming spot created in 1916 as part of the Signal Mountain Hotel. It offers a variety of trails, including easy gravel paths and challenging rocky loops. The lake is surrounded by scenic beauty, with a 100-foot suspension bridge over Middle Creek and access to the Cumberland Trail. While not primarily used for swimming today, it remains a popular outdoor destination for hiking and exploring.
Where: Signal Mountain | More Info: Rainbow Lake
Chattanooga Swimming Pools
Warner Park Pool and Spray Park
What to Expect
State-of-the-art pool liner
Description
Warner Park Pool features a newly installed state-of-the-art liner, enhancing safety and aesthetics. The facility includes anti-skid features, secured railings, and updated racing lanes. Located alongside the Chattanooga Zoo, it offers a large outdoor pool and spray park, making it an ideal spot for families during summer.
Where: Chattanooga | More Info: Warner Park Pool and Spray Park
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