The Tennessee River’s Chickamauga Dam is a marvel of engineering, holding back floodwaters while producing hydroelectric power. Experience this impressive structure up close by kayaking through the dam’s lock on this remarkable guided tour. Over the course of around three hours, you’ll paddle into the lock, watch the gates close, and slowly sink down some 50 feet before paddling back out into the river.

• Experience the awesome power of Chickamauga Dam by kayaking through its lock
• Meet your guide at Chattanooga’s Tennessee Riverwalk
• Enjoy around three hours of kayaking, including the slow descent in the lock
• This tour provides a kayak, paddle, and safety equipment

What To Expect

Try the unique guided experience of locking through Chickamauga Dam from the seat of a kayak. You will paddle into the 120 ft tall lock and the massive gates will close behind you. Your guide will connect the boats to a moving anchor at the side of the lock to secure all of the passengers on the trip.  The lockmaster slowly empties the water in the lock from Chickamauga lake into the Tennessee River below the dam. As the water empties the lock,  you slowly descend into the depth of the lock to match the river level below the dam.  The massive doors in front of you open and your guide will lead you into the river where the paddling tour continues.  This is a truly unique Chattanooga kayaking experience.