Head of the Hooch and Tennessee RiverLine

Walnut Street Bridge over the Tennessee River

Here’s the “before,” you send us the “after” | Photo by @_ktz.04

There’s a lot to see in the Scenic City. Walnut Street Bridge? Iconic. Lookout Mountain? Gorgeous. But let’s not forget the unsung hero of Chattanooga’s skyline: the Tennessee River.

Not only does she love the camera, but the river is a staple of local events — from farmer’s markets, to last month’s Chattajack, to tomorrow’s Head of the Hooch regatta. It’s busy days for the riverfront, and this weekend is the perfect time to dive in. (Not literally, please.)

🚣 Head of the Hooch | Sat., Nov. 6-Sun., Nov. 7

The Head of the Hooch 2-day rowing regatta brings with it food trucks, foot traffic + friendly competition. Here’s the need to know for your day by the river:

  • 8:50 a.m. That’s when the first boats launch. Races continue until 5:40 p.m., before picking up 8 a.m.-2:21 p.m. on Sunday. Let this be your reminder: Daylight Saving Time ends in between race days.
  • Ross’s Landing Park. That’s the best place to see the finish line — and enjoy the Chattanooga Market. You can catch the start from Coolidge Park, get an overhead shot of the crews from Walnut Street Bridge, or follow along the Riverwalk. And if you can’t make it to one race day, there’s also a livestream.

📸 The big picture

Chattanooga was selected for the Tennessee RiverTowns program last month, joining 20 other towns in preserving + promoting communities along the riverfront.

With access to millions of dollars in funding and statewide planning and leadership resources, the coalition seeks to cement the Tennessee River as an international destination for long-distance paddling, biking, hiking — and racing events like Head of the Hooch.