Hiking at a safe distance
At Chattanoogaarea greenspaces, social distancing is a walk in the park
As the state of Tennessee and the local county and city governments ease restrictions amid the novel coronavirus, many public Chattanooga area greenspaces have reopened.
While some activities, like using playgrounds, can still be off limits, there are miles of trails and acres of parks that can still be enjoyed.
In adjusting to new normal, residents may find that some local trails are easier than others when it comes to social distancing.
Lifelong trail enthusiasts Randy and Kris Whorton, founders of local nonprofit Wild Trails, said people are adjusting in their own ways. From stepping off a trail to let others pass, to leaving space in between cars in parking lots, they have seen people continue to use those areas, though many with added caution.
“I think it’s really more on the individual to manage it than it is on specifically how well the trails will accommodate it,” Kris Whorton said.
While there are ways to adapt on a variety of trails, the couple said there are still trails, like greenways and converted roads, that may provide more comfort for social distancing because of their ample space.
Here area few community submitted suggestions for local parks and trails that may make it a little easier to keep one’s distance.
North Chickamauga Creek Greenway
› 5051 Gann Store Road, Hixson
› bit.ly/northchickamauga
With various asphalt, crushed rock, grass and dirt trails, this greenway along North Chickamauga Creek is a pet-friendly option for those seeking a bit of time outdoors. The larger park itself has more than 180 acres of recreational space, according to its website.
Collegedale Greenway
› Behind Collegedale City Hall, 4910 Swinyar Drive, Collegedale
› collegedaleparksandrec.com/ parks
The city of Collegedale’s pedestrian greenway provides a paved path through the city’s scenic greenery.
Guild Trail Guild-Hardy Trail
› 498 Ochs Highway, Chattanooga
› bit.ly/guildhardy
This 5-mile trail on Lookout Mountain offers a relatively flat biking or hiking experience while winding through a number of Civil War historical sites, according to the Lookout Mountain Conservancy website.
Chickamauga National Battlefield Park
› 3370 Lafayette Road,
Fort Oglethorpe
› bit.ly/chickamauga-nbp
The battlefield has around 50 miles of hiking trails currently only open to foot traffic. Many of those follow historical roads set up by the military during the Civil War, according to the park’s website.
Enterprise South
› 190 Still Hollow Loop, Chattanooga
› bit.ly/hamcoenterprise Enterprise South Park is home to many hiking, biking and horse trails. Visitors can also drive along the park to take in views without having to leave their cars. The visitor center is currently closed, but users can take part in self-guided recreation.