Locate It: Wildwood

In the far northeast of the Dade Valley, tucked up close to Lookout Mountain, the community of Wildwood offers some relaxed attractions allowing you to immerse yourself in nature. For example, hike the Laurel Point Loop, a 3.2-mile hiking trail, generally considered to be novice level. It takes 60 to 90 minutes to complete. In addition to hiking, the trail is good for running and mountain biking. As a bonus, you rarely encounter other people. To get there, take exit 175 on I-24E to Elder Mountain Rd., then turn onto TVA Access Rd.

Or you may want to try paddle boarding, canoeing or kayaking on Lookout Creek, only minutes south of Wildwood. Those who enjoy fishing for crappie will find them plentiful. The creek empties into the Tennessee River at Moccasin Bend. To get to the put in point, take Highway 136 east out of Trenton to the Lookout Creek Bridge. Turn right onto Sells Rd. and look for a parking area on the left at the ruins of an old grist mill. The take out point is at the bridge just before the Lookout Mountain Flight Park.

The kids are bound to get a kick out of meeting the animals at Rosie Mae’s Alpaca Farm, Boutique & Coffee Shop. Bring your camera to take some keepsake photos with the adorable alpacas.
Extending your farm visits, stop by Wildwood Natural Farm, operated by the Wildwood Health Institute to grow produce year-round. And if you like putting your hands in the soil, the farm invites volunteers to brush up on their gardening skills.
When you’re ready for some good nights’ sleep, Cloudland RV Park specializes in extended stay. Campers love the scenery here so much that they tend to come for longer periods. The park is 20 minutes south of Chattanooga, Tenn., so it offers the great outdoors with urban amenities within easy reach. Enjoy full hookups, beautiful vistas, storage units, and a laundry.

For more Wildwood attractions, see the Adventure Into Dade Visitor Guide.