Reflection Riding

Visiting Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature CenterThematic Sections

Trails for Every Pace

Start with the three-mile gravel loop. It's wide and easy, and you can walk, run, or bike it past hardwood forest, wildflower meadows, and wetlands. Ready for more? About 10 miles of trails connect to National Park land that climbs to the top of Lookout Mountain.
Can't hike? Visitors can drive through the property instead. Just let the Welcome Center staff know when you arrive.

‍

Meet the Red Wolves

Reflection Riding takes part in the breeding program for the critically endangered American red wolf. The native animal exhibit also includes a bobcat, sandhill cranes, and a bald eagle. If you catch the wolves howling together, you won't forget it.
‍

Fall Color at the Foot of the Mountain

With hundreds of native plant species on the grounds, fall here comes in layers of red, orange, and gold. The ponds reflect the color back, and Lookout Mountain rises right behind it.

Basecamp Favorite Spot: Walk down to the edge of the Reflection Pond along the main gravel loop. Position yourself looking east toward Lookout Mountain—the reflection of the vibrant autumn leaves on the quiet water with the cliffs rising directly behind creates the best photo on the property.

‍

Paddle Lookout Creek

Canoe access to Lookout Creek reopened after boardwalk repairs. Canoes are for members only; call (423) 821-1160 to reserve and check creek levels.
‍

The Story Behind the Name

No horses here. "Riding" is an old English term for a landscape designed so the views unfold as you travel through it by carriage. The Chambliss family founded it in 1956 to protect native plant life.
‍

Know Before You Go

Admission & Parking: Reflection Riding is open to all, with donation-based entry and a $15 suggested donation per adult to support conservation and animal care. Park in the gravel visitor lot. After hours, use the lot at the Kiddie Trailhead, and don’t block the gate.

Hours: The Welcome Center is open Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and closed Sunday and Monday. Trails stay open during daylight hours, even when the main gate is closed. Leaving after 4:00 p.m.? Follow the exit signs toward the nursery and ponds to the one-way exit road.

Wildlife Sanctuary: The red wolf sanctuary is open for guided programs only. Reserve a spot online before you go.

Food: There’s no café on-site. Bring a picnic to enjoy along the trails or in the open meadows, and pack out what you pack in. Prefer a sit-down meal? Restaurants line the I-24 exit in Lookout Valley, just minutes away.

Pet Policy: Dogs are welcome on a leash at all times.
‍

Location & Getting There

Address:
400 Garden Road
Chattanooga, TN 37419

From Hawkins Pointe: About 25 minutes via I-24 W into Lookout Valley, on the west side of Lookout Mountain. Leave the rig parked and take your tow vehicle; the gravel lots suit cars and trucks best.

Phone: (423) 821-1160

Official Website
‍

Attractions Near Reflection Riding

• Ruby Falls: The nation’s tallest underground waterfall open to the public.
• Rock City Gardens: Rock formations, trails, and sweeping multi-state overlooks.
• Lookout Mountain Incline Railway: The historic funicular railway climbing the mountain.
• Fall Near Chattanooga: Our seasonal roundup of fall color, festivals, and Halloween fun.

Staying Near Reflection Riding

Hawkins Pointe RV Park offers the perfect basecamp for exploring Cloudland Canyon and the rest of Lookout Mountain's natural attractions. Spend the day on the trails, then return to a peaceful, spacious site for the night, no long highway drive required.

Explore nearby stay options:

• Overnight RV parking
• Executive RV sites
  ‍