Mayor Andy Berke invites the community to join him tomorrow at 11 a.m. in the Chattanooga Get Fit Challenge for a fun hike up to the overlook at Old Bell Avenue Trailhead at Stringer’s Ridge, the 92-acre urban wilderness park just minutes from downtown Chattanooga.
Mayor Berke and participants in the Get Fit Challenge will explore one of the largest natural areas within city limits that boasts spectacular scenery and views of the Tennessee River and downtown. The group will get to see how close the urban wilderness is to the heart of Chattanooga and learn how to easily incorporate a day hike into a weekend.
Mayor Berke will lead the hikers up to the Stringer’s Ridge overlook, and there will be additional options for avid hikers to explore some of the park’s more moderate to strenuous trails before everyone returns to the trailhead. It will also be an opportunity for the public to get to know the new Chattanooga Outdoor Ambassadors, a multicultural, multilingual group that is leading adventures and introducing more people of all backgrounds to the outdoors.
The hike is a family-friendly event, and it’s National Kids to Parks Day, which is an initiative from the National Park Trust encouraging future generations to discover and enjoy the nation’s open spaces. Even four-legged family members are welcome - Stringer’s Ridge is dog-friendly.
Directions
From Chattanooga’s NorthShore head toward Red Bank on Cherokee Boulevard. Just before the Red Bank Tunnel, turn right on Old Bell Avenue. Then, take an immediate left at 790 Old Bell Ave. where the trailhead starts (Nikki’s Drive-In will be on your right, across from the trailhead).
Parking
Trailhead and parking are across Old Bell Avenue from Nikki's Drive-In (located just before you go through the Red Bank Tunnel). On-street parking is also possible along Old Bell Avenue.
For more information visit http://connect.chattanooga.gov/getfit.