Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park — Attraction in Lookout Mountain

This is an awesome park. Although, the NPS isn’t clear on the operating times via Google. On 29Dec24 we drove to see the park arriving at 5:36 only to be told it closes in 3 min and we couldn’t enter. The ranger stated they closed at sunset, which on that day was 5:39pm, while the closing time listed on Google was 7:30pm. Just a slight near two hour difference.

We’ve had nothing but positive experiences with the NPS, and particularly Rangers. From Ft Sumpter to Horseshoe bend we’ve encountered Rangers that LOVED their job, were subject matter experts of the parks and its’ history, and courteous to all guests. Unfortunately, the Ranger at Point Park was less than accommodating. After turning us away she yelled at other guests to get out of the park because it was closed, literally as the clock struck 5:39pm. NPS needs to reevaluate how it posts the closing time, or don’t post it at all to prevent guests from driving and planning to visit near sunset, which is the most picturesque time to visit. Finally, in my profession if I spoke to guests the way the park ranger did on 29Dec24 I would be searching for a new profession.

*There were numerous guests at the gate that were also mislead by the posted Google time and were less than pleased...

If you are anywhere near Chattanooga, a visit to Lookout Mountain is a must. We stopped at Point Park and met a gem of a National Park Service ranger who brought the story to life with vivid detail and just the right touch of drama.

He set the scene. It was 1863. The Union wanted control of Chattanooga. The Confederates were dug in on Lookout Mountain, a stronghold they called the Gibraltar of the Confederacy. Then came General Hooker with a bold plan. He led his men up the mountain under a heavy fog. The climb was steep, the fighting was intense, and the stakes were high. When Union forces took the Craven House, they gained a key advantage. That moment became known as the Battle Above the Clouds.

Standing there today, it is easy to picture what happened. You can see the slopes they climbed and the ground they fought for. The view is stunning. The history is even better.

Thanks to the ranger, the past felt close. If you enjoy dramatic history, incredible views, and expert storytelling, this stop is well...

Heard whispers of a great view with a history and we got it! $20 a person to get into the park on top of paying for parking- ouch. We spent about an hour putting around walking the mostly paved trails and reading the plaques. Amazing spot for the sunset. The main look out area is currently closed, but would recommend finding a way to the view as it was one of the best I had seen during my stay in Chattanooga. We visited the park in the evening on a Tuesday and it was very lowkey. Decent parking situation, but I could tell it gets super full around there. The surrounding area has incredible houses and winding roads so I encourage you to do the ole drive around until you get dizzy and must part ways. Park...