Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park offers a wide array of opportunities for visitors to explore the historical and natural landscapes on which thousands of Union and Confederates fought and died during the Civil War. In order to ensure that your visit is safe enjoyable, please be aware of the following.
- In the summer temperatures can reach the upper 90s, it is important to drink lots of water.
- During the winter months, freezing temperatures can be dangerous for visitors and motorists alike. Be aware of ice on roads and bridges, and dress appropriately.
- On Lookout Mountain, there are numerous places with steep dropoffs and cliffs, please stay on the designated paths and trails.
- Use caution while hiking. Wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots. Watch out for plants and animals such as poison ivy & poison oak, ticks, and venemous snakes including copperheads and rattlesnakes. Do not approach or harass wildlife, inlcuding the park's many deer and turkey.
- Ticks are prevalent in the woods and fields of Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park. If you're going to be out in the park, especially on the trails or exploring the fields, please excercise caution to protect yourself against ticks. And be sure to conduct a thorough tick-check when you leave the park. For more information about ticks and tick safety, visit the Centers for Disease Control tick website.
- Chattanooga is a major city that is home to more than 160,000 people. Many roads leading to and from the reservations at Orchard Knob and Missionary Ridge can become congested. Excercise caution when driving or walking in these areas.
- The LaFayette Road, which runs through the center of Chickamauga Battlefield, is a major thoroughfare in the region. Drive carefully and excercise caution when walking or crossing this road.
- Every year, around late October and continuing through at least mid-November, the Whitetail deer rut becomes evident in Chickamauga Battlefield, and while the law enforcement park rangers are out every day protecting the deer and other wildlife which call the park home, the highest danger to these animals during this mating period comes from vehicles. If you are traveling through the battlefield, adhere to all posted speed limits and apply extra caution and awareness. Deer can literally be in front of your bumper before you can react if you are not paying close attention.
- Some areas of the have mosquito populations that become active in warmer weather. Visitors can help to protect themselves by wearing insect repellent and appropriate clothing.
If you require emergency assistance at any time, please call 911.
