Hiking in the fall at Stringer's Ridge

Fall is here! The nice, cool weather is perfect for hiking. Our favorite trails are on Lookout Mountain, but we also love to explore other new and interesting trails.

Sunset Rock, Lookout Mountain

A view of the Tennesee River atop Sunset Rock

This weekend, we decided to hike Stringer’s Ridge, an easy to moderate hike that is located close to downtown Chattanooga.

The trailhead is next to Nikki's Restaurant (899 Cherokee Blvd, Chattanooga, TN 37405). There is room for 5 cars along the roadway, but if you drive up further, there's parking for another 5 to 6 cars. The major trails are wide and paved with asphalt and gravel;  there some narrow dirt trails. Feel free to explore; there are maps at most junctions, and all the trails are well-marked.

Map of Stringer's Ridge

A view of downtown Chattanooga

If you feel the need to reward yourself after the hike, check out Nikki's, a hole in the wall that takes you back to a much simpler time. The joint is famous for its jumbo fried shrimp and onion rings. Too greasy for your taste? There's Mamacita, a cute Tex-Mex restaurant down Cherokee Blvd on 109 N. Market Street, and a Whole Foods Market on 301 Manufacturer's Road. Both are minutes away from Stringer's Ridge trailhead.

Nikki's Drive Inn

How was your weekend?

Updated 9/29/21: Nikki's closed in March 2020. The iconic restaurant is razed this year for condo development.

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