Chattanooga began as a small trading post in 1815 and was one of the staging areas for the Cherokee relocation known as the "Trail of Tears." Incorporated in 1839, Chattanooga means "rock coming to a point," in reference to 2,126 foot high Lookout Mountain to the south.
During the Civil War, Union forces occupied the city. Following this 1863 occupation, General William Tecumseh Sherman began his infamous march from Chattanooga, through Georgia, to the sea. The Civil War battles of Lookout Mountain, Chickamauga and Missionary Ridge were fought nearby.
Chattanooga Choo Choo and Terminal Station are at 1400 Market St., 3/4 mile N of I-24 using the Market Street-Lookout mountain exit. A major link in public transportation between the North and South began on March 5, 1880, with the first run of the Chattanooga Choo Choo train. A car and an engine from the original train are displayed. The restored terminal contains shops and restaurants.
Rock City Gardens is 5 miles SW on Lookout Mountain; take TN 58 and GA 157. A "city" of natural rock formations, it embraces about 10 acres of unusual lichen- covered sandstone. The 4,000 foot long Enchanted Trail leads through tunnels to various heights and down the row of crevices. A stone bridge and a swinging bridge span chasms. Lover's Leap and Observation Point have scenic views of 7 states. Admission $7.50 ph: 404-820-2531
Ruby Falls-Lookout Mountain Caverns are 3 miles S on Lookout Mountain Scenic Hwy (SR 148). Tours depart every 15 minutes to the 145-foot high falls which are 1,120 feet underground and reached by elevator. Admission $7.25 ph: 615-821-2544