Come Out and Play!
Outdoor Chattanooga News + Events June 2020
As we continue to navigate the world of social distancing and virtual programming, our newsletter looks a little different. The community events and activities we typically highlight have been replaced with virtual programs, along with status updates about parks, trails and green sapces, along with how to experience the outdoors safely and responsibly during the current health crisis. We're relying heavily on our social media outlets (links below) to stay connected until we can meet in person again.
Outdoor Chattanooga Events
Virtual Rapid Learning Skills Sessions | Wednesdays in June
All of our programs and group activities are suspended through the month of June as we continue to monitor the global health crisis and it's impact on our community. Our tentative timeline to resume programs is the second week in July. When we we are able to get together in person again, we will be implementing new safety precautions and operating procedures to ensure our instructors and all our participant's safety. Until then, we will continue to post kayak skills videos once a week for our Rapid Learning Whitewater Program. This dynamic program offers formal kayak instruction for beginner and seasoned kayakers to learn and develop the skills necessary to confidently and safely paddle whitewater streams. Follow our Rapid Learning Facebook and check out our Youtube channel for virtual learning opportunities every Wednesday in June.
Virtual Hike
Since we can't lead a guided hike in person this month, we're offering a  virtual hike with scenic views and a waterfall at Foster Falls located in the South Cumberland State Park . It is a scenic trail in a remote setting. Please check our website or the parks website for the latest updates on closures and restrictions before heading out and be sure to practice Leave No Trace Principles .
Bicycle Tips
We've noticed a lot more people riding their bicycles since the health crisis began. We love seeing folks having two wheeled fun and wanted to offer some tips and tricks for safe riding. Last month we covered the ABC Quick Check this month, we cover how to ride advanced features on a downhill trail. Check out our YouTube Channel for a full line up of how to videos!

Virtual Learn to Ride a Bike Class
We believe knowing how to ride a bike is an essentail life skill and typically we offer free learn to ride a bike classes on the 2nd Monday of each month. Unfortunately, we haven't been approved to offer in person programs yet, so we put together this video with helpful tips and tricks on teaching your child how to ride a bicycle.

Community Events + Experiences
Take the National Trails Day Pledge
Millions of Americans temporarily experienced life with limited access to trails and public lands, which made us realize how much we need them, now, more than ever! National Trails Day sponsored by the American Hiking Society is typically held on the first Saturday of June and encourages people from across the country to participate in trail service projects and guided hikes. This year, things look different due to the impact of COVID-19 and the event is being held online. We encourage you to take American Hiking Society’s #NationalTrailsDay Pledge and commit to taking at least one action in 2020 to preserve trails and fight for equitable access to quality green space. Once it’s safe to get outside in groups again, we’ll share ways to get involved with local trail service projects and guided hikes so we can get back to appreciating and recreating on the trails we love!

Tennessee State Parks Open for Camping
Most overnight accommodations including campsites, cabins, and lodges, at all 56 Tennessee State Parks are open.  Online reservations  are available, but online inventory may be lower than normal as they work to enhance social distancing. Availability is subject to change as the situation evolves. Please respect park signs, observe social distancing Reservations are also accepted over the phone by calling the particular park you wish to visit.

Virtual Synchronized Fireflies
If you haven't had the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing phenomenon of synchronized fireflies in person, here's your chance to learn all about why this magical phenomena occrs and what makes fireflies glow!

Outdoor Chattanooga's Response to COVID-19
Our primary mission is to connect residents and tourists with Chattanooga's outdoor scene. Unfortunately, due to the impact of COVID-19, we've had to temporarily adjust how and what it means to experience the outdoors in Chattanooga. All of our programs and group activities are still suspended until further notice to adhere to the social distancing recommendations of the CDC and the City of Chattanooga .

We believe the outdoors can be a place of solace and serenity while offering opportunities for reflection, recreation and connection with nature - all important elements of staying healthy. While we practice social distancing and do our part to prevent the spread of the virus, we've compiled a list of park and public spaces closures, along with resources, ideas, and activities for how you can still experience the great outdoors in the greater Chattanooga region, in a variety of ways. **Please note that many public restrooms and playgrounds are still closed or have limited ammenities*** Visit our website and check the location/desitnation before you go so you can plan accordingly and practice Leave No Trace Principles and recommendations for going outside during COVID-19 .

If you're going out for a walk, run, or ride, we'd like to encourage you to use free tools like STRAVA , MapMyWalk , MTB Project , and/or Trailforks so that you can track your route and share it with others! It's a fun way to encourage group participation while still adhering to social distancing. The iNaturalist app is a great online resource for recording wildlife observations and tracking biodiversity.
Looking Ahead...Upcoming Events
Outdoor Chattanooga | 423.643.6888 | info@outdoorchattanooga.com | www.outdoorchattanooga.com