This week in Chattanooga

Pulling this week’s drop…

Walnut Street Bridge grand reopening

Meet at Walnut Street Plaza by 11:45 and we'll be among the first to walk the bridge again.

When

Saturday Oct 3, 12:00–3:00 PM (River Market first, from 10 AM, if you like)

Where

Walnut Street Plaza, 1 Walnut St, Chattanooga

What to bring

Rain jacket, comfortable shoes, water, bug spray; expect crowds and heavy downtown parking, so park away from the riverfront

Weather

Roughly a 47% shower chance at noon and storms likely after 2pm. Come for the ceremony, skip the long lingering. Parking, road closures, and a rain plan haven't been confirmed yet.

Why this is easy: Free and flat — a short ceremony, then a walk across the bridge that's been closed since March 2025. Zero gear, easy to find people.

Saturday morning SUP or kayak with L2 Outside

Book the 9 AM slot at L2, meet at the dock, and be off the water before the weather turns.

When

Saturday Oct 3, 9:00–11:00 AM (book ahead)

Where

L2 Outside, launch under the Market Street Bridge, 100 River St

What to bring

Water shoes, sunscreen, towel, water, bug spray, a dry layer

Weather

Go early, before the midday showers. L2 offers a reschedule or refund if it halts rentals for unsafe weather.

Why this is medium: Rental gear and PFD are included, but you're paddling the Tennessee River — more physical and needs a reservation. You'll see the reopened bridge from the water.

SUP $30/1hr or $40/2hr; kayaks also offeredDetails

Signal Point to Edwards Point (Cumberland Trail)

Meet at the Signal Point trailhead at sunrise — Edwards Point, and back before the storms.

When

Saturday Oct 3, start at first light and be off the trail by about 1 PM

Where

Signal Point Park, Signal Mountain

What to bring

Boots with good grip, lots of water, rain gear, headlamp, snacks

Weather

Steps are slippery when wet, and storms are likely by mid-afternoon, so an early start is a must. Skip it Sunday: heavy rain is likely.

Why this is hard: About 5.6 miles round trip on a strenuous, rocky gorge trail with overlooks. The weekend's real challenge.