20 Attractions to Explore Near Heritage Point Regional Park

The Western & Atlantic Railroad Tunnel is a railroad tunnel built in 1850, the tunnel is 0.75 miles long and has become a National Historic Landmark. An amazing feat of engineering during that era, the tunnel runs beneath the crest of a ridge that raised 540 feet above its entrance in Chattanooga. It was really quite a dangerous venture to bore through solid rock but crews were able to get it done quickly and safely allowing railroad traffic to continue under the mountain.

Prater's Mill Historic Site brings the past to life in Whitfield County, Georgia. Located between Dalton and Varnell on Prater's Road, this site is a reminder of Southern Appalachian culinary, cultural, and textile history. With a beautiful natural setting featuring historic buildings including churches, warehouses, cotton gin machinery, and more from the early 1800s through the 1960s, this location offers visitors a rare glimpse into the past.

The Chief Vann House Historic Site is a 19th century plantation house that has been carefully restored to its original grandeur. Built circa 1805 by Chief James Vann and his son Joseph, the home is a remarkable reminder of an interesting chapter in Georgia's past. The house was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1973 for its representations of Cherokee history in Georgia and its significance to southern aristocracy.

Hampton Island, is an adventure destination for all ages. Here, nature lovers can enjoy miles of trails for biking or hiking that lead to unique and breathtaking scenic views. Visitors can take a boat out on the nearby Coosawattee River and cast their line for a variety of freshwater fish species. Those who dare can even paddle along the saltwater border of Hampton Island and kayak amongst dolphins and sea turtles!

Old Stoner Church is a small but historically significant religious structure built in the late 1880s and named after the founders of the community, Reverend Joseph Stoner and his brother-in-law Deacon Jesse Hall, it has served as a site of worship and fellowship for many generations. The church holds an annual homecoming each year, with hundreds of members returning to relive their memories and honor the legacies of their ancestors.

The Ringgold Gap Battlefield is a historic site dedicated to remembering the Civil War battle that took place there in 1863. On November 27th of that year, Union forces engaged the Confederate Army in an effort to stop them from advancing further into northwest Georgia and Chattanooga. The intense battle resulted in heavy casualties on both sides: 596 Confederates died, compared with 375 on the Union side.

John's Mountain Wildlife Management Area, is a protected area that serves as an important habitat for local wildlife. The area features bluffs, majestic hills, and a mixed hardwood forest with coves and ravines, making it perfect for birds, deer and other small game. John's Mountain also provides outdoor recreation opportunities such as fishing, hunting, hiking and boating on the nearby Lake Arkaquah.

Fort Mountain, is a historical location filled with wonders and secrets. Situated in the north of Georgia it rises with a peak of 835 feet above sea level and overlooks Chatsworth lake, formed naturally by its steep banks. The mountain comprises three distinct geological formations – metamorphic rocks, lava flows, and the famous rock wall – believed to have been built by Indians who lived here thousands of years ago.

Red Clay State Historic Park is a unique and beautiful historic park. It is located on the ancestral land of Cherokee tribes, whose history is memorialized throughout the park. It features ancient earthy mounds, quartzite masonry walls, and a unique wooden bridge that stretches over a beautiful lake. The surrounding tranquil forest provides perfect wildlife viewing opportunities for visitors to enjoy, including beavers, otters, deer and other wildlife.

Fort Mountain Lake is a man-made lake, which was created as part of the Vogel State Park in the 1930s and is now a popular destination for swimming, fishing, and camping. Nestled in the beautiful folds of the North Georgia Mountains, it lies within its own serene wilderness setting. Within the lake itself lies many distinct features that add its charm to visitors, such as sunken trees, islands, drops offs, underwater channels and more.

The Resaca Battlefield Historic Site is a great place to visit if you are looking to learn more about the Civil War. The site covers 1,815 acres and offers visitors an up close look at the Resaca Battle that took place during that conflict. There are several walking and driving tours available which will give visitors a glimpse into what happened on May 13-15 of 1864. On these tours, you can find interpretive markers, a visitor center museum with artifacts from the battle on display.

Fort Mountain State Park is the perfect destination for outdoor adventure. Featuring miles of trails, lake access, and sprawling natural beauty, this is the ideal spot to camp or go hiking. The park has a scenic overlook that can be reached by a short trail and rewards visitors with breathtaking views. In addition to camping and trails, there are plenty of historic sites to explore like 800-year-old evidence of an ancient wall and artifacts from the Civil War period.

Elsie A. Holmes Nature Park is a nature lover’s haven. Just a short drive from bustling downtown Chattanooga, the park provides a peaceful escape into nature. Featuring wooded hiking trails and the tranquil waters of Lookout Creek, Elsie A. Holmes is ideal for all kinds of outdoor activities like fishing, bird watching, and picnicking. Accessible from several entry points off Hwy 27 and just five miles from the nearby lake.

Johns Mountain is one of the county's most interesting geographical features, with a combination of rolling hills and steep cliffs that form a unique landscape. The area has several large creeks as well as breathtaking views from the top of the mountain. It is also home to wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and birds like bald eagles and blue-headed vireos. Hiking trails provide access to some beautiful waterfalls, which can be seen along the stream banks.

Keown Falls Picnic Area and Trailhead is a beautiful and serene outdoor escape. Accessed from Keown Falls Road, the picnic site offers clean and spacious grounds for activities like eating a meal outside, frisbee throwing or kite flying. Nature lovers can also enjoy hidden trails accessible to the area that offer sights of waterfalls, rural fields and lakes. Whether travelers are looking to relax on a picnic blanket or explore a wooded trail, they’ll find something special here.

Located in Fort Oglethorpe, the winery offers guests a unique experience in a beautiful setting. Visitors can sample wines made on-site at the tasting room and tour the production facility where they learn about the winemaker's process. They can also shop for unique Georgia wines and gifts in the retail store while taking in the stunning mountain views. For an extra dose of fun and relaxation, visitors can stay overnight at the winery's bed and breakfast that includes luxurious spa services.

Grassy Mountain is a place gifted with natural beauty. The mountain lies within the Cohutta Wilderness area, allowing visitors an opportunity to experience the tranquility of its immaculate surroundings and all the wonders of nature untouched by human interference. Its footpaths are bounded by deep valleys and ancient trees. The bright blue waters of the Chickamauga Lake form its boundary to the northeast, offering spectacular views for hikers looking to explore this magnificent locale.

Conasauga Lake, makes for an awesome spot for a camping excursion! When visiting the lake you can cast your fishing line to catch bass, bream and crappie; take the kayak out for a little exploration of coves and streams; or spend the day sunbathing on the shore. There’s also plenty of hiking trails and lush greenery surrounding the lake. While you're there, you can get up close with nature and witness some beautiful wildlife like deer, beaver, river otters, even bald eagles!

Cohutta Wilderness lies in southeastern Tennessee and northwestern Georgia. Spanning over 35,000 acres, it offers a natural, breathtaking sight for those willing to explore it. The Wilderness is covered in rolling hills and streams, making it popular amongst hikers and campers alike. It also provides an environment for abundant wildlife, including black bears and wild turkeys. In Morgan County, Georgia, visitors can enjoy the nearby Conasauga River and Jacks River trails.

New Echota State Historic Site marks the location of the former capital of the Cherokee Nation. Located within site boundaries lies a reconstructed museum and visitor center, Supreme Court museum and law office, dungeon jail structure, a print shop building as well as 18th and 19th century homes. Visiting this historic site will take you on a journey through time as you step back to experience the town New Echota was during its peak in the 1820's.