The Chattanooga Nature Center was established in 1979, and since that time over half a million people have visited this unique and beautiful sanctuary at the base of Lookout Mountain, Tennessee. Because we are located in one of the most biologically rich areas of the country, we feel a tremendous responsibility to provide a variety of programming that encompasses our natural heritage and focuses on the importance of local biodiversity.

Our Mission: Through Environmental Education the Chattanooga Nature Center empowers individuals with an ethic of stewardship and informed decision-making to affect human impact on native wildlife and the land upon which it depends.

The Chattanooga Nature Center property includes:

• A 1400′ Boardwalk that meanders through a seasonal wetland and lowland forest
• The Wildlife Wanderland home to many of our native Animal Ambassadors
• The George S. Bryan Tree House, one of the largest Tree Houses in the country, built in the branches of a Overcup Oak more than 100 years old!
• Paddler’s Perch, a cabin sitting in the canopy of the trees along historic Lookout Creek
• Outstanding dock on Lookout Creek near Paddler’s Perch for outdoor enthusiasts
• Visitor Center featuring Hidden Creatures of the Forest – home to native animals rarely seen in the wild and a new Red Wolf exhibit
• Snake Tale Alley – come face to face with native snakes (they are in enclosures)
  

  Red Wolf at CNC

• Several Native Gardens including a Fragrance Garden, a Bird and Butterfly Cafe, and an ecologically engineered Constructed Wetland, Treating all of the wastes from the Visitor’s Center
• Perfect views of the spectacular Lookout Creek (members may take a boat ride in one of our canoes!)
• Miles of Hiking Trails at adjacent Reflection Riding Arboretum and Botanical Garden

Come and take part in one of our many public programs, participate in a guided hike, sign up for a school program, join a discussion group, or just enjoy the calm serenity of the forest. Please feel free to use this site for updated information on the many activities going on at the Chattanooga Nature Center and check back often.

See you outside!