Tennessee unites Appalachian wonders with Southern charm in its quaint mountain towns. Their distinct culture and scenic beauty are truly unique to the state. It’s no wonder Tennessee is a popular tourist destination among nearby vacationers, especially those seeking a quick weekend getaway in the mountains. Deep in the southeastern corner of the state, the stunning town of Signal Mountain is a true gem worth adding to your Tennessee bucket list.
Signal Mountain is a suburban town along the southern tip of the Cumberland Plateau and high atop Walden’s Ridge, which looks out over the Tennessee River Gorge as well as Chattanooga, a scenic city with a flourishing arts scene located between Nashville and Atlanta. If you live too far away to drive to Signal Mountain, fly into the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport, the Nashville International Airport, or the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (the latter two are a little over a couple hours away). The panoramic views of the river are nothing short of breathtaking, while the town’s lakes, waterfalls, and trails will quench your thirst for the great outdoors.
Long ago, Native Americans used the mountain bluff to send smoke signals throughout the valley, a practice Union soldiers adopted during The Civil War, using their own signaling system to track Confederate advancements in the region. Signal Point is now a popular hiking destination due to its rich history and unmatched views. It’s also a noteworthy stop and access point along the 300-mile Cumberland Trail along the dazzling ridges and gorges of the Cumberland Plateau. But you don’t have to travel hundreds of miles for the best the Tennessee mountains have to offer. Signal Mountain has it all nestled in one idyllic town.
Natural wonders to explore atop Signal Mountain
While Signal Point is rated one of the most scenic overlooks of the Tennessee River Valley, it’s only the tip of the iceberg (or mountain, as it were) for all there is to do and explore throughout Signal Mountain. Spend some time exploring the trails connected to Signal Point for other incredible lookouts, like Julia Falls Overlook and Edwards Point, both a descent down the mountain along an enchanting scenic hike.
Those trails are part of the Cumberland Trail system and will lead you to Rainbow Lake, another must-see Signal Mountain destination (it’s also accessible more directly via the Rainbow Lake Trail). The trail is a destination all its own, featuring a 100-foot suspension bridge, the stunning Rainbow Falls, and the Rainbow Lake Dam, which usually has plenty of water cascading down its two-tiered wall. Further down the mountain is Mushroom Rock, a towering 20-foot-tall sandstone formation hidden deep in the Tennessee wilderness. Many hikers add on the Suck Creek suspension bridge to their route to Mushroom Rock for a 4-mile round trip of photo-worthy stops (but be forewarned: it’s easy to get lost, as the trails are not well marked at points!).
However, if you dare to trek beyond the marked trails of Signal Mountain, there are secret wonders to behold, including the majestic Middle Creek Falls. Located at the base of Signal Mountain, this lesser-known waterfall features a natural water slide and is a roughly 2-mile ascent up the creek. It requires some light boulder-hopping, providing an exciting journey with a rewarding destination. Also consider the short drive to Chickamauga Lake, known for its fishing.
Where to eat and stay around Signal Mountain
