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Come PLAY

Walker County is a rock solid choice for things to do.

Best known for a tremendous variety of outdoor recreation options, Walker County also has plenty of cultural, historic, and fun family attractions to inspire you.

Arts & Culture

  • Back Alley Productions
    @ The Mars Theatre

    Back Alley Productions is a full-season nonprofit theatre company that has been voted by readers of the Chattanooga Times Free Press as the North Georgia Best of the Best for Live Performance Venue in 2018, 2019 and 2020. Offering a diverse lineup of comedies, dramas and more, performances take place at the Historic Mars Theatre in downtown LaFayette, Georgia.

    117 N. Chattanooga St.
    LaFayette, GA 30728
    (706) 621-2870
     

Caving & Climbing

  • For adventure seekers and explorers, Walker County’s caves and climbing areas are second to none. There are roughly 200 caves in Walker County. You can take a guided tour with an expert or venture into the void on your own. Some of the most popular spots include Pettyjohn’s Cave, Ellison’s Cave, Frick's Cave and Rocktown. Experience levels range from novice to highly advanced. Here are some of our favorites:

  • Pettyjohn's Cave

    On the east side of Pigeon Mountain, Pettyjohn’s Cave contains 6.5 miles of underground trails within Pigeon Mountain and measures 31,490 feet long. The cave reaches a depth of 235 feet and contains many rooms, including the Echo Room. To get to the Echo Room, you must crawl through the Worm Tube, a 150-foot passageway that forces cavers to crawl on their hands and knees.

  • Ellison's Cave

    Ellison’s Cave features the Fantastic Pit, the deepest (586 feet) unobstructed underground cave in the United States. While this is one of the most popular caving locations in the country, it is also one of the most advanced. The cave runs 12 miles long and 1,063 feet deep. It is the 12th deepest cave in the country. This cave is NOT for beginners.

  • Frick's Cave

    Frick’s Cave remains a preserved and protected site, owned by the Southeastern Cave Conservancy. Roughly 10,000 endangered gray bats make their summer home here. The cave opens once a year in the winter when the bats are gone, to allow SCCi members and their guests entry into this site. In September, SCCi hosts the Bats, Beer & Bluegrass event at Frick’s Cave to raise funds. The event offers the opportunity to see the bats leave the cave at dusk.

  • Rocktown

    Within the Crockford-Pigeon Mountain Wildlife Management Area, Rocktown is popular among rock climbers in the Appalachian Plateau region. Years of geological activity and natural development formed these acres of rock. These changes in the earth created a unique opportunity for rock climbing and bouldering for beginners and experts.

  • The Lost Wall

    Prepare to be amazed by this mystical, massive rock wall, once thought to be just local lore. You’ll marvel at this incredible structure, which features wide chimneys, a waterfall and potentially prehistoric area. More than 100 points have been mapped out along the Lost Wall, including locations dubbed “Maybe Not,” “Refrigerator Crack,” “Revenge of the Jedi,” and “Frolicland.” You can find the Lost Wall to the west of Pettyjohn‘s Cave, off Rocky Lane.

    *While there is no admission price for exploring the management area, a Go Outdoors Georgia Hunting, Fishing or Lands Pass license is required for most age groups. Georgia residents can purchase a one day Hunting/Fishing combo online for $5 (this is the cheapest option if you plan to partake in outdoor recreation on WMA property, even if you don’t plan to hunt or fish). If you plan to look at wildflowers or access the horse, bike, caving, hiking, rock climbing, parasailing and hang gliding trails, and you want to make several visits throughout the year, residents can purchase an annual Lands Pass online for $30. The price is $60 for non-residents.

Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park

  • Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park

    You may not think of a memorial battlefield as a place for fun, but the Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park has plenty to do for the entire family. You can see more than 680 commemorative monuments, markers, cannons, and memorials throughout the park, see the Fuller Gun Collection, one of the largest collections of military weapons in the U.S., at the Visitor Center, as well as the 26-minute orientation film, The Campaign for Chattanooga: Death Knell of the Confederacy, not to mention special ranger programs and tours, picnic spots, and miles of trails for hiking and biking.

    Chickamauga Battlefield contains around 50 miles of hiking trails, many of which follow historic road traces that were present at the time of the battles, roads set up by the military in the early 20th century, or take you to monuments and markers deep within the battlefield. Hiking or jogging are great ways to explore the historic resources of Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park. Download a trail map. Some trails at Chickamauga Battlefield are open to horseback riders: the Red, White, and Blue trails as indicated on the trail map. The horse trailer area is on the west side of the park along Chickamauga-Vittetoe Road, and is the only place where horses may be unloaded and trailers parked.

    Bicycle riding is permitted in the Chickamauga Battlefield on all paved and gravel roads. However, there are no dedicated bicycle trails in the military park. There are plenty of monuments and other attractions to see along your journey. You can move at a leisurely pace and make the rounds in about two hours.
    Download a map of rideable areas.

    Rock climbing is permitted at two locations in Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park – at Sunset Rock on the western bluff of Lookout Mountain and at Eagles Nest on the northern lower slope of Lookout Mountain. Both locations are marked on the Lookout Mountain Battlefield Trail Map.
    Download the map.

    At Chickamauga Battlefield there are four picnic areas – along Reed's Bridge near the park visitor center, at the intersection of Alexander Bridge Road and Brotherton Road, at the Recreation Field, and along Highway 27. Most recreational activities, such as kite flying, playing catch, throwing Frisbees, etc. are only permitted at the Recreation Field (remember, thousands of people were killed or wounded on the Battlefield grounds, so appropriate reverance is expected).

    3370 LaFayette Rd.
    Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30707
    (706) 866-9241

Cycling

  • There are more than 84 miles of mountain biking trails and another 37 multi-purpose trails available for bicycle riders in Walker County.

  • 5 Points

    Experience what it’s like to swoop down a trail in Walker County, GA on your mountain bike as you pick up speed! 5 Points features roughly 20 miles of single track trails built by SORBA Chattanooga along a revegetated coal mine. There is a connector trail to Cloudland Canyon State Park.

  • Chattanooga Connector Trail

    This more than 10-mile single track trail (when you include the White Lightning & Fire Water trails) starts at Covenant College and ends near the Lula Lake Land Trust. While highlights of the ride include fast descents and scenic boulders, riders should note that there is no parking area downhill. Look for the Covenant College practice fields on South Campus Road to get started.

  • Upper Truck

    This trail is mainly in Chattanooga, but features a section on top of Lookout Mountain. This is mostly a double track gravel trail.

  • McLemore Cove

    McLemore Cove offers one of the most scenic and leisurely road rides in Walker County. This area sits in the valley between Lookout Mountain and Pigeon Mountain and features minimal traffic. Many group rides take place in this area and the Mountain Cove Farms Resort offers a General Store, picnic area and restrooms to help you rest and refuel along your trek.

  • Ironman

    Walker County plays host to multiple Ironman events each year, which bring thousands of triathletes to the region both for the event and to practice in advance. The bike portion of the race takes place primarily in Walker County, while the other events are in Chattanooga. Follow the map if you would like to try out the course.
    View Map

  • Bike Rentals

    So, you came to visit and didn’t bring your bike? No worries, two local outfitters have rentals available in our community.

    Battlefield Outdoors
    706-841-0040

    Velo View Bike Tours
    423-834-8388

Family Fun

  • Rock City

    For nearly 90 years, visitors to the South have been urged to leave the highway by the call of bright red barns and road signs saying See Rock City. Atop Lookout Mountain, a mere 6 miles from downtown Chattanooga, this phenomenon of nature features massive ancient rock formations, gardens with more than 400 native plant species, and breathtaking “See 7 States” vistas. Discover the wonders of a walk along the Enchanted Trail where nature reveals her magic. Explore the extraordinary Fairyland Caverns and Mother Goose Village. Visit one of our regional gift shops and dine at the Big Rock Grill or in the Rock City Pavilion. Rock City is a year-round wonderland of environmental beauty.

    1400 Patten Rd.
    Lookout Mountian, GA 30750
    (800) 854-0675
     

  • Tennessee Valley Railroad

    Traveling by train is an exciting way to experience Walker County. The Chickamauga Turn, one of the Tennessee Valley Railroad’s many routes, has layovers in downtown Chickamauga and the Chickamauga Battlefield. The train ride lasts a little over 6 hours and has dining options available. The excursion on the Chickamauga Turn route begins in Chattanooga and makes the stops in Chickamauga before returning to its starting point in Chattanooga.
    Note: Chickamauga Turn trips are currently unavailable due to ongoing track improvements.

    4119 Cromwell Rd.
    Chattanooga, TN 37421
    (423) 894- 8028
     

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    WalkerRocks Selfie Trail

    There are trailhead markers all over Walker County, calling attention to great spots for selfies. With stops including Rock City, McLemore Cove, Mountain Cove Farms Resort and several other locations, click through to the trail map, grab your phone and go!

  • Get your scream on with roller coasters, bumper cars, and the Soakya Water Park. Play mini-golf, catch a ride on the ferris wheel or tour train, enjoy concerts and special events. And, of course, fill up on classic fair food – hot dogs, hamburgers, funnel cakes, cotton candy, popcorn, sno-kones and more – to indulge in the tastes and smells of childhood. This family amusement park is the perfect place for a picnic or party, an educational outing for students, and those who simply want to play!

    1730 Lakeview Dr.
    Rossville, GA 30741
    (877) LAKEWIN (525-3946)
     

Fishing

  • Walker County features more than 20,000 acres of wildlife management land, known as the Crockford-Pigeon Mountain WMA. Freshwater fishing is available within the WMA. Other prime fishing destinations include Queen City Lake and West Armuchee Creek. Note: While there is no admission price for exploring the management area, a Go Outdoors Georgia Hunting, Fishing or Lands Pass license is required for most age groups. Georgia residents can purchase a one day Hunting/Fishing combo online for $5 (this is the cheapest option if you plan to partake in outdoor recreation on WMA property, even if you don’t plan to hunt or fish). If you plan to look at wildflowers or access the horse, bike, caving, hiking, rock climbing, parasailing and hang gliding trails, and you want to make several visits throughout the year, residents can purchase an annual Lands Pass online for $30. The price is $60 for non-residents.
    If you are fishing for trout, an additional Trout License will be needed.

  • Crockford-Pigeon Mountain WMA

    Sawmill Lake in the Crockford-Pigeon Mountain WMA features largemouth bass, bluegill and redear sunfish. There is no boat ramp, but there is parking and bank fishing in this area.

  • Queen City Lake

    Queen City Lake in the City of LaFayette features largemouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, bluegill, redear sunfish and yellow bass. There is a boat ramp, parking and bank fishing in this area.

    303 Lakeview Dr.
    LaFayette, GA 30728

  • West Armuchee Creek

    West Armuchee Creek in the John‘s Mountain WMA features redeye bass, bluegill, redbreast sunfish, shadow bass, warmouth and rainbow trout. There is no boat ramp, but there is parking and bank fishing in this area.

    9 Lake Marvin Rd. NE
    Armuchee, GA 30105

  • John Ross Commons

    John Ross Commons is a beautiful green space featuring a water feature, pond, walking track, picnic tables, and the historic John Ross House. On a good weather day, you can sit by the pond, relax, and watch as flocks of ducks and geese swim about the pond. The pond is open for fishing on the last Saturday of each month, from sunrise until sunset. All minors (18 & younger) must be accompanied by an adult to fish.

    East Lake Avenue
    Rossville, GA 30741 (behind Food City)

    There are also a number of trout stream destinations in Walker County:

    • Chappel Creek watershed
    • Chattanooga Creek watershed upstream from Walker Co Rd. 235
    • Concord Creek watershed; Duck Creek watershed
    • East Fork Little River watershed, which flows into Dade County
    • East Fork Little River watershed, which flows into Chattooga County, including Gilreath Creek
    • Furnace Creek watershed
    • Gulf Creek watershed
    • Harrisburg Creek watershed, including Dougherty Creek watershed, upstream from Dougherty Creek
    • Johns Creek watershed
    • Left Fork Coulter Branch watershed
    • Little Chickamauga Creek watershed
    • Rock Creek watershed, including Sawmill Branch, upstream from Sawmill Branch
    • Ruff Creek watershed
    • Snake Creek watershed
    • West Armuchee Creek watershed
    • West Chickamauga Creek watershed upstream from Walker Co Rd. 107

Golf & Disc Golf

  • LaFayette Golf Course

    This Arthur Davis-designed gem of a course is located on the south side of LaFayette on U.S. 27, just north of the bypass. The original nine holes were built in the 1930s with an additional 10 holes constructed in 1992. Enjoy challenging holes, natural beauty, a welcoming clubhouse, fully-equipped pro-shop and grill. Test your skills on the links on one of North Georgia’s most visually beautiful and well-maintained courses.

    638 South Main St.
    LaFayette, GA 30728
    (706) 639-1580
     

  • Mountain Cove Farms

    Mountain Cove Farms features an 18-hole, 8,000-foot “Wilderness Disc Golf Course” with amazing views. The cost is $5 per person/per day and you can provide your own discs or purchase them from the Country Store. This is a championship-level course with a mix of open, wooded, uphill, downhill, short and long, placement. Mountain Cove has hosted many disc golf tournaments and is open daily for those who just want to come out and play for fun!

    994 Dougherty Gap Rd.
    Chickamauga, GA 30707
    (706) 539-COVE (2683)
     

  • McLemore Golf Club

    AN EXPERIENCE ABOVE THE CLOUDS - Golf at McLemore is world-class. Visit and play this 18-hole championship highlands course and 6-hole short course designed by internationally acclaimed architects Rees Jones and Bill Bergin.

    32 Clubhouse Ln.
    Rising Fawn, GA 30738
    (800) 329-8154
     

Hang Gliding

  • Lookout Mountain Flight Park

    Experience the thrill of hang gliding amid of some of Northwest Georgia’s most scenic areas. Lookout Mountain Flight Park is the largest and most successful full-time hang gliding school and resort in the U.S. All instructors are USHPA (United States Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association) certified and insured and teach hang gliding 7 days a week. Students train amid 55 beautiful acres of pastureland on the 65-foot small hill and 100-foot big hill. (Four wheelers carry students and their gliders back up the hill after each training flight.)

Hiking, Camping, Wildlife Viewing

  • Chattahoochee National Forest

    This National Forest is breathtaking in its natural beauty, rich with exciting possibilities for adventure and one of the most popular wilderness locations in the nation. This 31,000 acres of hushed forests, towering waterfalls, whitewater rapids, endless hiking, biking and riding trails, camping, fishing and more await outdoor enthusiasts.

    Don’t miss Keown Falls, stunning twin falls (60 feet and 40 feet) along two spring-fed streams within the National Forest. The 1.8-mile Keown Falls Loop Trail and the 3.5-mile John’s Mountain Loop Trail offer extraordinary vistas.

    Also part of the National Forest, The Pocket was created by the steep ridges of Horn Mountain, which surrounds it on three sides. From 1938 through 1942, this was the site of a Civilian Conservation Corps camp and the foundations of the old structure are still visible. A well-maintained and clearly marked hiking trail makes an easy 2.5-mile loop from the picnic area along low-lying streambeds and back to the campgrounds.

    (770) 297-3000

  • Cloudland Canyon State Park

    This breathtakingly scenic park is on the western edge of Lookout Mountain. The park straddles a deep gorge cut into the mountain by Sitton Gulch Creek, with elevations between 800 to 1,980 feet. The most magnificent viewpoint is found near the picnic area parking lot. However a walk along the rim trail offers spectacular vistas as well. The more intrepid visitors who choose to hike to the bottom of the gorge (including a 600-step staircase) will discover two waterfalls tumbling over layers of sandstone and shale into the pools below. (For visitor safety, wading in pools and climbing on waterfalls is not allowed.)

    Cottages are near the canyon edge, while the park’s walk-in campsites provide outstanding privacy for tents.

    122 Cloudland Canyon Park Rd.
    Rising Fawn, GA 30738
    (706) 657-4050
     

  • Lula Lake Land Trust

    The Lula Lake Land Trust was established by the will of Robert M. Davenport in January 1994 to protect the natural beauty and abundant resources within the Rock Creek watershed and preserve it for present and future generations. Davenport acquired more than 1,200 acres around Lula Lake and, since then, the Land Trust has increased protection to more than 4,000 acres. Here you will learn of the fragile gifts of the environment and your role within it.

    Directions from the north (Chattanooga, TN): Allow 25 minutes driving time; Take Hwy. 58 South from St. Elmo up Lookout Mountain to a T-intersection with Lula Lake Road; Turn left (south) and go 4.5 miles to the gravel drive entrance (normally) marked on the left. Follow the gravel drive to an area marked for parking.

    Note: Lula Lake is only open to the general public on the first and last weekends of each month during Public Access Dates, also known as Open Gate Days. Reservations and payment of a Conservation Use Fee are required to visit. One reservation equals one parking space.

    122 Cloudland Canyon Park Rd.
    Rising Fawn, GA 30738
    (706) 657-4050
     

  • Coke Ovens Park

    The fascinating Chickamauga coke ovens are just north of downtown Chickamauga on Highway 341. During the mid-1800s, the beehive ovens of the Durham Iron and Coal Company were designed to turn coal into coke for use in the iron and steel foundries in nearby Chattanooga, Tenn. During the Depression years, the coal was depleted and the ovens abandoned. In the late 1990s, the unique coke oven area was restored to its original appearance with train cars and the actual beehive ovens. Wetland demonstration ponds were created and the area transformed into a serene park. Each September the Ovens host an arts and crafts festival, held in conjunction with the War Between the States Day.

    Highway 341
    Chickamauga, GA 30707
    (706) 375-3177
     

  • Crockford-Pigeon Mountain WMA

    Pigeon Mountain is a lovely natural plateau just west of the city of LaFayette, Ga. The mountain is part of the Cumberland Plateau, which stretches from Alabama through Georgia and into Tennessee. The area is under the supervision of the Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division. The mountain is renowned for its many caves and limestone rock formations, the most famous of which is Ellison Cave. Another fascinating area is Rock Town, an area of enormous rock formations that may have been used as Native American shelters and are sometimes used today as shelter for wild animals such as bobcats. The area is not heavily visited, so it’s the ideal place to get away from it all, hike, bike, camp, explore and just breathe in the natural beauty.

    365 Rocky Lane Rd.
    LaFayette, GA 30728
    (706) 295-6041
     

  • John’s Mountain WMA

    For great hiking, fishing, seasonal hunting and camping, John’s Mountain Wildlife Management Area is a 24,849-acre property, part of the Chattahoochee National Forest. There are many spots to set up camp or park your camper/RV at the Pocket Campground. Hikers can explore Keown Falls Trail and Pinhoti Trail Loop.

    9 Lake Marvin Rd. NE
    Armuchee, GA 30105
    (706) 295-6041
     

History

  • Chief John Ross House

    The Chief John Ross House is a memorial to the man who is considered by many to be the greatest chief of the Cherokee Nation. Although only one-eighth Cherokee, he was devoted to his nation and served as Principal Chief from 1828 to his death in 1866. Chief Ross fought valiantly against the removal of his people from Georgia and surrounding states by the United States government. Ultimately, he led the Cherokees on the tragic Trail of Tears journey to Oklahoma in 1838. This fascinating tribute to Chief John Ross’ life and accomplishments is located at Andrews & East Lake Avenue in Rossville and can be viewed by appointment only.

    218 Andrews St.
    Rossville, GA 30741
    (706) 866-5171
     

  • Old Federal Road

    In 1805, the United States and the Cherokee Nation agreed in the Treaty of Tellico to establish the Federal Road through Cherokee territory. Driving the tour today takes about 3.5 hours

  • Walking Tour of Historic LaFayette

    Pick up a brochure and map with descriptions of 20 historic buildings or places of interest in downtown LaFayette. The tour takes about 1½ hours to complete.

    207 South Duke St.
    LaFayette, GA 30728
    (706) 639-1519
     

  • African American Museum & Cultural Center

    The Walker County African American Museum and Cultural Center focuses on stories of African Americans' travels from rich West African ancient civilizations through enslavement and living free as persons of color in the United States of American. With graphic exhibits and interactive kiosks, the Center focuses primarily on the lives of African Americans of Walker County, Georgia. However, including exhibits on Dade, Walker and Catoosa counties' African Americans. Under an agreement with Walker County, Walker County African American Historical and Alumni Association, Inc. rents the building and provides an excellent educational experience for all ages.

    309 North Main Street
    La Fayette, Georgia 30728
    706-670-1165
     

  • 6th Cavalry Museum

    Celebrate the fascinating military history of the “fightin Sixth” at the The 6th Cavalry Museum. This legendary unit formed in 1861 as a U.S. Cavalry Regiment. It was stationed at The Post at Fort Oglethorpe from 1919 until 1942 and serves today in Germany and Korea. Located on the Post’s original parade ground/polo field, the area is listed on the National Register of Historic Sites. Visited by presidents, military heroes and Hollywood celebrities, the museum houses 6,500 square feet of artifacts, uniforms, weapons, accoutrements, photos, a Patton Tank, a Cobra Gunship Helicopter and more. Discover life during the era of the horse soldier at The 6th Cavalry Museum.

    6 Barnhardt Cir.
    Ft. Oglethorpe, GA 30742
    (706) 861-2860
     

  • Holland-Watson Veterans Memorial Park

    Chickamauga's First Veterans' Memorial Park was named in honor of two Chickamauga soldiers, Sgt. Eddie H. Holland and CPL Thomas A. "Tommy" Watson, who lost their lives in Vietnam. A Huey helicopter, a symbol of the Vietnam War, is mounted on a pedestal in the center of the walking track at the park. The park honors all veterans of all wars from the Chickamauga area who lost their lives in service to our country.

    corner of Crittenden Avenue and W. 8th Street
    Chickamauga, GA 30707
    (706) 375-3177
     

  • Marsh House

    The Marsh House, built in 1836 by Spencer Stewart Marsh, offers visitors a rare glimpse into yesteryear. When it became apparent the Civil War would come to Northwest Georgia, the Marsh family moved to Cassville, Ga. to escape the oncoming troops. While the family was away, Union troops occupied the house. Upon returning after the war, the Marshes discovered devastation: all their furniture and household items had been taken, the floors in the downstairs hall were blood soaked and marked with hoof prints, many bullets were found in the outer walls of the house and bullet holes had shattered the glass around the south upstairs outer door. Walker County purchased the house in 2003. Under an agreement with the Walker County Historical Society, the County owns the building and participates in its continuing restoration through the Walker County Historic Preservation Commission.

    308 N. Main St.
    LaFayette, GA 30728
    (706) 638-5187
     

  • Chattooga Academy

    It is the year of 1863. Beneath a towering oak tree in front of a grand building, Confederate General Braxton Bragg paces as he prepares for the battle of Chickamauga. (The tree, later known as Bragg’s Oak, was destroyed during a storm in the 1920s.) Now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Chattooga Academy is yours to discover as you listen for echoes of a tumultuous past.

    208 North Main St.
    LaFayette, GA 30728
    (706) 639-1500
     

  • Gordon-Lee Mansion

    The beautiful and historic Gordon-Lee Mansion, one of the South’s grand dames of antebellum beauty, was built in 1847 by James Gordon and is located in the charming town of Chickamauga. Set on seven manicured acres, lined with elms and maples, with formal English and Southern vegetable gardens, the Mansion is the only structure left standing that was used during the Battle of Chickamauga. The house has been meticulously restored to its prior splendor. Museum quality period antiques, oriental floor coverings, and crystal and brass chandeliers ensure its authenticity. Weddings and special events become magical affairs when held in this treasure from the past.

    217 Cove Rd.
    Chickamauga, GA 30707
    (706) 375-4728
     

  • Crawfish Spring

    During the September 1863 Battle of Chickamauga, Crawfish Spring was the primary source of water for both Union and Confederate soldiers. Today, during the annual September War Between The States Day, Civil War reenactors use the area around the spring as a camp and demonstration site. The spring, no longer used as a city water source, has been converted to a lovely public park complete with picnic tables, swings and gazebo. Parking is free along Cove Road and the spring is open for all to enjoy at no charge.

    East side of Cove Road
    Chickamauga, GA 30707
    (706) 375-3177
     

  • American Battlefield Trust Heritage Sites

    This driving trail links more than 600 sites in 32 states to inspire and to teach the story of the Civil War and its enduring impact on America. The Gordon-Lee Mansion at Chickamauga is included on the trail.

  • Chickamauga Campaign Heritage Trail

    This driving trail follows the troop movements through four Northwest Georgia counties (including Walker) that were part of the brutal Civil War Chickamauga Campaign.

  • Blue & Gray Trail

    This driving trail takes visitors to Chickamauga, site of the greatest Confederate victory, then follows a route from Chattanooga to Atlanta, similar to the one that General William Tecumseh Sherman took.

Scenic Drives

  • McLemores Cove

    This exquisite valley, nestled in the V formed by Lookout Mountain and Pigeon Mountain, was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1994 (the McLemore Cove Historic District). The steep limestone and sandstone walls of the mountains form a remarkable backdrop for a scenic drive through the cove. At the southwest end of the cove is a portion of the picturesque 11,500-acre Mountain Cove Farm.

    The cove, which was named for Robert and John McLemore, sons of a white trader and a Cherokee mother, is just south of Chickamauga Battlefield. One of the Civil War battles took place at Davis Crossroads within the cove. Near Cedar Grove Methodist Church, a large number of Union soldiers spent the night of September 17, 1863, immediately prior to the Battle of Chickamauga.

    Another antebellum structure is the 130-year-old, plantation-plain style farmhouse, located one-half mile south of Mt. Hermon Church on Hog Jowl Road, where the Hise family has lived for generations. Most of the other old houses and buildings in the cove are not antebellum but date from the 1890s when the railroad was built through the northern part of the cove.

    Directions: Take GA 193 west from LaFayette 8 miles to Davis Crossroads. Note that the best view of McLemore Cove is from GA 157 atop Lookout Mountain.

  • Lookout Mountain Parkway

    This 93-mile drive delights with waterfalls, canyons, scenic brow vistas, unique towns and villages, state and national parks and preserves and many more natural wonders.

    (888) 805-4740

  • U.S. 27 Historic Byway

    Known in Georgia as the Martha Berry Highway, U.S. 27 stretches from the top of Georgia in Walker County and neighboring Catoosa County to the extreme southwest border of the state and on into Florida. You’ll see charming West Georgia towns, many anchored by iconic historic courthouses in all manner of architectural styles.

    (706) 342-8225

  • Ridge and Valley Scenic Byway

    Mountain overlooks and fertile farmlands can be found along the 51-mile byway as it travels U.S. 27, State Highways 156 and 136, and rural county roads.

Shopping

  • From crafts and collectibles to the South’s largest antique mall nearby, shopping is a delight and an adventure in Walker County. We have charming downtowns filled with specialty boutiques and unusual merch specific to our locale. Whether you seek the cutest kid‘s outfit at a store on Main Street or an antique quilt at an eclectic shop of vintage treasures on a winding country road, Walker County has it.

Water Sports

  • Do you love to spend your free time on the water? Our lakes and creeks in Walker County feature a variety of opportunities for adventure, exercise, relaxation, and sport.

  • Kayaks, Canoes and Paddle Boards

    Journey down West Chickamauga Creek from Lee & Gordon’s Mill in Chickamauga on a 6, 10 or 13-mile trip or relax on the 260-acre Queen City Lake in LaFayette.

  • West Chickamauga Creek

    West Chickamauga Creek flows through a significant portion of Walker County, adding an aquatic view to the scenic foliage. The creek is available for kayaking and canoeing.

    A launch point for the creek is behind Lee and Gordon’s Mills in Chickamauga. The West Chickamauga Creek also flows through the Chickamauga Battlefield, giving the creek a storied history dating back to the Civil War.

    Depending on how adventurous you or your group may be, there are three to five-hour trips available from this launch point.

  • Lookout Creek

    Lookout Creek, located in Lookout Valley west of Lookout Mountain, empties into the Tennessee River, and is a popular destination for paddlers. Sections of this waterway pass through the Chickamauga Battlefield, where General Joseph Hooker launched his assault on Lookout Mountain during the November 24, 1863 "Battle Above the Clouds."

  • Queen City Lake

    Located in LaFayette, Queen City Lake is a premier spot for water activities such as boating and fishing. The lake, which is open sunrise to sunset, is perfect for enjoying the water on a beautiful summer day.

    Originally established as reservoir for LaFayette, the city allows for the body of water to be used as a recreational area. Queen City Lake is on Round Pond Road just past LaFayette High School and is free of charge. Gas powered boats and alcohol are prohibited.

  • Outfitter

    The following outfitter will bring boats and accessories to you and return later to pick you up:

    Battlefield Outdoors
    (706) 841-0040

Come discover why Walker Rocks.

You won’t forget it.

Please Explore This Site Further To Discover Where To Stay In Walker County, Where To Eat, And The Many Things To Do Here.