The Deep Green Gorge Near Nashville That Feels Like Something Straight Out Of A Fairy Tale

There’s nothing more beautiful than a day spent out and about in the Tennessee wilderness, and the people of Nashville may know it more than others. The city has become a contemporary mecca for city slickers and those of us that crave the quiet beauty of the great outdoors. Located just a few spare hours from Music City, the Tennessee River Gorge is close to the city of Chattanooga and bursting with natural beauty. If you haven’t been, it’s a must-visit.

Tim Lumley - Flickr

The Tennessee River Gorge is located near Chattanooga, Tennessee, and is a truly astonishing natural wonder. Although the Gorge itself is only 8 miles long, the river has managed to twist its way a full 26 miles through the gap in Walden Ridge.

Michael Hicks - Flickr

Millions of years ago, the Gorge was formed by a large number of small streams that slowly eroded a path through a once-tall mountain. They eventually met the flow of the Tennessee River, and later formed the incredible natural wonder we see today.

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Charlene N Simmons - Flickr

You find massive cliffs along either side of the gorge that rise hundreds of feet high. Made largely of sandstone, limestone and shale, they're an impressive sight to see.

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Mike C - Flickr

There are also caves that dot the interior walls of the canyon as well. Water has managed to work its way from its original streams and riverbeds, and have forced small fissures to grow and expand beneath the ground. The Gorge is home to a whole network of caves and caverns just beneath the surface.

Tim Lumley - Flickr

The forest itself is also absolutely stunning. Numerous species of trees, shrubs, berries and wildflowers grow high on the hills and rugged cliff edges of the Gorge, and they add to the beauty of the sloping hills and valleys across the Cumberland Plateau.

Michael Hicks - Flickr

Come and hike the Tennessee River Gorge, friends, and take in the sights of the immense boulders along the river beds, the treacherous rapids on the river and the expansive forest. It's unlike anything you'll find within Nashville city limits.

Michael Hicks - Flickr

Have you been? Will you be visiting for yourself? It's a quick drive from Nashville to the Chattanooga-adjacent Tennessee River Gorge, and it's one that's highly encouraged. Come with your best friends, come with your family, and be ready to be wowed.

You can learn more about this astounding natural wonder with a visit to the Tennessee River Gorge Trust official website.