Chattanooga offers some of the most memorable canoe and kayak experiences in the southeastern U.S., thanks to its scenic river settings, impressive engineering, and abundant wildlife. Whether you’re paddling at sunset to watch bats emerge from Nickajack Cave, floating through the massive Chickamauga Dam lock, or searching for migrating sandhill cranes, this city packs a punch for outdoor lovers. We particularly like the Nickajack Bat Cave Kayak Tour because it blends wildlife viewing with an easy, relaxing paddle, making it a top choice for nature enthusiasts. Plus, there’s nothing quite like seeing 100,000 bats take flight at dusk.
Chattanooga’s combination of natural beauty and engineering marvels means its kayak tours are both scenic and educational. Whether you prefer close encounters with wildlife or impressive feats of infrastructure, there’s an experience here for you. The variety of tours means there’s something for all skill levels—no need to be an expert paddler to enjoy the water here.
Quick Overview
This list features three standout kayak experiences near Chattanooga. First, the Nickajack Bat Cave Kayak Tour offers a wildlife spectacle with endangered bats. Second, the Chickamauga Dam Lock Kayak Tour provides an up-close look at one of the Southeast’s engineering giants. Third, the Sandhill Crane Kayak Tour offers a rare chance to spot migrating cranes in winter. Here’s a closer look at each.
1. Nickajack Bat Cave Kayak Tour with Chattanooga Guided Adventures
At number 1, our top pick is the Nickajack Bat Cave Kayak Tour, which makes the list for its extraordinary wildlife viewing and tranquil setting. This roughly two-hour tour takes you into the waters of Nickajack Lake, where as many as 100,000 endangered grey bats emerge at sunset. The bats roost in the Nickajack Bat Cave and Wildlife Refuge, creating a fascinating spectacle for nature lovers.
The tour starts with a brief safety orientation and full use of kayaks, life jackets, and group throwbags. Your guide, often with 25 years of birding experience, will share insights on the local ecosystem and conservation efforts. As the bats take flight, you’ll learn about their vital role in the environment, making this a meaningful experience as well as an awe-inspiring one. Many visitors comment on how relaxing and educational the trip is, with some noting the peaceful sunset backdrop enhances the experience. The guides have received perfect ratings, with reviews like “the guides were both personable and knowledgeable” and “seeing the bats at sunset was very cool.”
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and those seeking an evening of tranquil paddling combined with a spectacular wildlife show. It’s especially suited for those interested in conservation and natural phenomena.
2. Chickamauga Dam Lock Kayak Tour by Chattanooga Guided Adventures
Coming in at number 2, the Chickamauga Dam Lock Kayak Tour is a fascinating exploration of one of the largest dam structures on the Tennessee River. This three-hour tour with about 2.5 hours of paddling takes you into the dam’s lock chamber, where you experience firsthand how this engineering feat controls floodwaters and generates hydroelectric power.
The tour begins at the Chattanooga Riverwalk, where your guide will outfit you with all safety gear, including kayaks and paddles. The highlight of this trip is the slow descent through the lock gates—a rare chance to see the process of water level control up close. Many visitors say that paddling into the lock is a “cool experience,” with some mentioning how the guide’s explanations about the dam’s purpose and operation add context. The guides, like Brandon and Zach, are praised for their patience and knowledge, making the trip both educational and enjoyable.
While the tour doesn’t allow for extensive exploration of the dam area, the unique experience of moving through the lock makes it stand out. It’s well-suited for those interested in engineering, history, or simply looking for a relaxing paddle with a twist.
Bottom line: This tour offers great value for anyone curious about dam infrastructure and water management. It’s ideal for history buffs, engineering fans, or anyone wanting a calm, informative paddle.
3. Sandhill Crane Kayak Tour with Chattanooga Guided Adventures
Third on our list is the Sandhill Crane Kayak Tour, which specializes in bird-watching during the winter migration. During this approximately three-hour trip, you’ll paddle along the Tennessee River with a limited group of just eight travelers for a more personal experience.
This tour is designed for birders and nature lovers eager to catch a rare glimpse of 15,000 migrating sandhill cranes that winter in the area. The tour includes all necessary gear—kayaks, paddles, cold-weather clothing, and binoculars—making it accessible even in cooler temperatures. The guides, experienced in birding, will point out the cranes and explain their migration habits. This tour is the only one on our list that focuses explicitly on bird-watching, providing a peaceful, slow-paced paddle optimized for wildlife observation.
Reviews highlight how special it is to see such a large flock in action, with one reviewer noting, “The best part was watching the cranes in flight—something we wouldn’t see from land.” Since the cranes only stay briefly, early booking in the winter months is recommended.
Bottom line: The Sandhill Crane Kayak Tour appeals most to bird-lovers and those interested in seasonal wildlife migration, offering a rare and intimate glimpse of these iconic birds.
How to Choose
When deciding between these Chattanooga kayak tours, consider your interests and the type of experience you want. For wildlife and a sunset spectacle, the Nickajack Bat Cave is hard to beat. If you’re fascinated by large-scale infrastructure or engineering, the Chickamauga Dam Lock offers a unique, educational paddle. For bird-watching and seasonal wildlife, the Sandhill Crane is perfect, especially if you’re a keen birder.
Budget-wise, all tours are similarly priced around $79–$86 per person, but consider the length of experience and specific interests. Weather can influence your choice—sunset tours are best in warmer months, while bird-watching is ideal in winter.
Booking early is recommended, especially for the Crane tour, as spots are limited to eight travelers. Check seasonal availability and be prepared for varying weather conditions.
Chattanooga offers diverse kayaking experiences that showcase its natural beauty and engineering marvels. Whether you want to witness thousands of bats take flight, paddle through a dam’s lock, or see migrating cranes, these tours are worth planning your trip around. For wildlife enthusiasts and adventurers alike, making a reservation ahead of time ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable outings.