There are plenty of exciting things to do in Harrison Tennessee. This charming town nestled on the shores of Harrison Bay of the Chickamauga Lake, is a mere 10 minute drive northeast of the bustling town of Chattanooga.
From scenic hikes along the breathtaking Cumberland Trail to exhilarating water sports on the pristine waters of Chickamauga Lake, Harrison is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Explore a plethora of water and land based outdoor activities at the Harrison Bay State Park. The Marina lets you park your boat or rent kayaks and paddleboards. You can fish, sail, swim or just float around.
The Bear Trace Golf Course there, presents a challenging and picturesque 18-hole golfing experience amidst stunning natural surroundings.
Harrison is a terrific place for spending a weekend, a week or even longer. As an active senior who loves the outdoor life, you are going to love this small town in Tennessee!
Things to Do in Harrison Tennessee
1. Harrison Bay State Park: A Range of Activities
Harrison Bay State Park is nestled along the picturesque Chickamauga Lake shoreline. Spanning 1,200 acres of pristine beauty, this park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Some of the outdoor activities that you can indulge in here, are:
- Camping
- Golfing
- Boating
- Paddleboarding
- Fishing
- Biking
- Hiking
Set up camp at one of the 128 RV sites with water and electrical hookups or opt for a primitive tent-only campsite for a truly immersive experience.
The renowned Bear Trace Golf Course, designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus, is a harmonious blend of challenging fairways and stunning natural landscapes.
With 40 miles of shoreline to explore, anglers will find themselves in paradise, casting their lines into the crystal-clear waters teeming with fish.
Harrison Bay State Park has a 4.5-mile bike trail loop. With invigorating uphill climbs and exhilarating downhill sections, the trail accommodates riders of all abilities, promising an enjoyable experience.
2. Bear Trace, Harrison Bay: Golfer’s Delight
Discover the magic of golfing amidst breathtaking surroundings at Bear Trace in Harrison Bay. Designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus, this course is destined to become a timeless gem in your golfing collection.
Located just 10 minutes north of downtown Harrison, Bear Trace offers a unique blend of challenging fairways and stunning natural landscapes.
Picture yourself teeing off on the Champion Bermuda greens and navigating the 419 Bermuda fairways, surrounded by towering pine and hardwood trees.
Immerse yourself in the traditional Nicklaus fashion as you encounter fairway and greenside bunkers that add character to the course’s integrity.
You’ll appreciate and understand why Bear Trace is known for its emphasis on playability.
3. Water Sports at Harrison Bay: Cast a Line
Enjoy a blissful day of fishing on the tranquil waters of Chickamauga Lake, from the Harrison Bay. Cast your line and let the gentle current carry you along, as you eagerly anticipate a thrilling catch.
This aquatic playground has abundant opportunities to reel in a catfish, largemouth bass, crappie, or bluegill fish. Bask in the natural beauty of Tennessee as you float along, savoring every moment and waiting for the fish to bite.
Extend your fishing retreat into a memorable weekend by choosing to stay at Harrison Bay State Park. Set up camp amidst nature’s embrace, or dock your boat at the park’s marina.
For a change of pace, rent a paddleboard and glide across the tranquil waters. When you’re ready to explore further, take to the park’s trails on a refreshing hike or enjoy a round of golf in the captivating surroundings.
4. Booker T. Washington State Park: A Serene Retreat
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich history of Booker T. Washington State Park. Located just a short distance from Harrison, this park offers a serene retreat for those seeking relaxation and a deeper understanding of the past.
Named after the famous educator and African-American leader, Booker T. Washington, this park showcases his legacy and the achievements of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s.
Take a stroll through the park’s tranquil trails and discover the remnants of the CCC’s work, including stone picnic shelters and bridges that have stood the test of time.
Enjoy a leisurely picnic surrounded by nature’s beauty or embark on a peaceful hike along the park’s well-maintained trails. Delve into history by visiting Booker T. Washington State Park Interpretive Center.
5. Booker T. Washington Trail: A Pleasant Walk
Booker T. Washington Trail is an enchanting adventure for seniors who love outdoor activities. This exhilarating 7 ½ mile loop trail is a moderate challenge and can be completed in less than 3 h hours.
It is a great trail for birding, hiking, or running. In any case you can enjoy moments of tranquility during quieter periods. Open year-round, the trail showcases its natural beauty in every season.
The trail is well marked and in good condition, making it perfect for a trouble free hike.
The path is very walkable, with incredible views of the water. There are sections where you feel as if you are walking on a carpet, due to a padded of dry leaves and pine needles.
6. Summit Knobs Trail: An Enchanting Journey
Experience the allure of Summit Knobs Trail, a captivating 10 mile out-and-back trail nestled near Ooltewah. Known for its gentle terrain, this trail is a hiker’s haven and a paradise for horseback riding enthusiasts.
Explore the scenic path at your own pace, as you immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature. With minimal crowds, you can relish the solitude and serenity as you traverse through the picturesque landscape.
Situated near Enterprise South, this trail system offers a remarkable adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. As you wind your way through hardwood forests and pockets of evergreen, the trail unveils its subtle beauty.
You actually ascend 1100 feet but the rolling topography, without steep climbs, ensures it is an easy ride or hike. To make life easy, the trail is a well-marked path, with mile markers every half-mile.
Where to Stay in Harrison Tennessee
It is a good idea to stay in a vacation rental by the lake as there are no good hotels in Harrison. Here is one that you may like.
Stunning Lakefront Cottage
Discover a peaceful sanctuary just steps away from Harrison Bay at this beautiful 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom vacation rental cottage in Harrison. This 1,000-square-foot home accommodates 4 to 6 guests
Indulge in the comforts of the fully equipped kitchen, relax in the cozy living room while streaming your favorite shows, and savor delicious meals at the picnic-style dining table.
Begin your day with a rejuvenating swim in the crystal-clear waters, followed by a hearty breakfast on the furnished deck overlooking the stunning lake views.
With breathtaking lake views and outdoor amenities, you can unwind on the deck, fish off the private dock, or explore the nearby attractions for an unforgettable experience.
Socialize with a sizzling barbecue feast using the charcoal grill. Assemble friends and loved ones at the outdoor dining table for an enchanting evening under the sunset skies.
Where to Eat in Harrison Tennessee
Local Goat: Pretty Awesome!
Local Goat, the New American restaurant in Ooltewah, is pretty awesome! The restaurant has an expansive menu and the food quality is exceptional.
From juicy burgers and fries to mouthwatering chicken salads, each dish is prepared with care and precision, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
Whether you’re a local resident or passing through, Local Goat is a must-visit destination for food lovers seeking a range of delectable options.
Not only is the food great, Local Goat has a charming ambiance and top-notch service. The friendly staff greets you with warmth from the moment you step inside.
The outdoor seating lets you enjoy your meal while taking in the surroundings. It is a terrific option when the weather is pleasant.
You will love your visit to Local Goat as they usually have some interesting stuff going on there, besides dining. From artwork for sale to gift items, there’s a touch of creativity and uniqueness within the establishment.
Acropolis: Impeccable Quality
Acropolis is an outstanding Mediterranean/Italian spot that offers an extensive menu range and impeccable food quality.
The patstitsio is simply divine, accompanied by a Greek salad and homemade bread that adds an authentic touch. The ravioli la crema is excellent as well, satisfying even the most discerning palates.
Leave some space for heavenly desserts. Don’t miss out on the hummingbird cake. Moist, light, and bursting with flavor, it is the perfect sweet ending.
When it comes to seating, ambiance, and quality of service, Acropolis truly shines.
The high-top seating in the bar area is comfortable for a drink before dinner as the atmosphere exudes warmth and charm. The attentive service by the staff adds to the overall enjoyment of the meal.
City Café Diner: Sweet Delight
City Cafe Diner has proven to be a gem of a café with an impressive menu range and outstanding food quality.
Despite its nondescript exterior, this small restaurant attached to Best Western surprises its customers with hot, delicious, and budget-friendly meals that exceed expectations.
With generous portions and a wide variety of mouthwatering dishes, City Café Diner is sure to leave you satisfied and craving for more.
City Café Diner provides a lively and fun atmosphere. The interior is vibrant, with 1980s music creating a nostalgic vibe. The seating is comfortable, the staff is friendly, and the dining experience is very pleasant.
Don’t forget to save room for dessert—the restaurant boasts an extensive selection of cakes, pies, and other sweet treats.
All desserts are generously portioned and highly recommended. Their cakes, known for their massive size, are an absolute must-try.
The icing on the cake (pun intended) is that City Café Diner operates 24 hours a day, making it a convenient spot for satisfying your hunger pangs even in the middle of the night.
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