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Chickamauga Dam Lock Kayak Tour
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Chickamauga Dam Lock Kayak Tour

5.0(4 reviews)
2 hour(s) 30 minute(s)
english
Chattanooga, United States

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Descend within the lock to match river level below the dam

Continue paddling down the Tennessee River with a gentle current

Learn about the history of the dam and its impact on surrounding communities

Future trips will operate through a new lock double the size of the current one

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$ 79.99

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Guided Paddle Experience Takes Visitors Through Active TVA Lock System


A guided kayaking tour at Chickamauga Dam is offering visitors a rare opportunity to paddle directly into the 120-foot-tall lock system. The experience places participants inside the structure as massive gates close and the lock begins its controlled water transfer process.


Each kayak is securely attached to a moving anchor system managed by guides, ensuring safety throughout the descent. As the Tennessee Valley Authority Lockmaster gradually drains the chamber, paddlers descend smoothly until the water level matches the Tennessee River below.


Once the lock doors open, the group exits into the river and continues downstream with the natural current. The transition from engineered lock system to open water provides a distinctive blend of mechanical process and natural scenery.


Along the route, guides share historical context about Chickamauga Dam and its role in regional development. With the current lock scheduled for decommissioning in 2026, the tour offers one of the last chances to experience this historic navigation system firsthand.

What's Included
  • Kayak, Lifejacket, Paddle & Guide
  • Group throwbag, Group towline
  • Group first aid kit
  • Kayak light
  • Additional Included Gear for Fall and Winter
  • Neoprene kayaking mittens AKA Poagies
  • Drip protection to keep your legs from getting paddle drip on them
  • Rainjackets
What's Not Included
  • Gratuities

Synthetic Shorts & Tshirt

Sandals or Tennis Shoes

Short Sleeve Synthetic Tshirt underlayer

Long Sleeve synthetic shirt over the tshirt

Water bottle

  • Travelers with Limited mobility impairments
  • Kids under 7 years old
  • Travelers prone to seasickness
  • Travelers with aquaphobia
  • Families with children
  • Couples
  • Adventure seekers
  • Nature enthusiasts
  • Groups of friends
  • Physically fit travelers
  • Photography lovers

Minimum age of participants is 7

Minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult

Have a camera ready to capture every special moment

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Activity Provider: Chattanooga Guided Adventures

Customer Reviews

Explore More Chickamauga Dam Lock Kayak Tour
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Day In a City

Explore More Chickamauga Dam Lock Kayak Tour

Discover the wonders of Chattanooga, United States with this unforgettable experience. Experience an unforgettable adventure kayaking through one of Chattanooga’s most fascinating landmarks, Chickamauga Dam. This guided tour takes you right into the 120-foot-tall lock, where the massive gates close behind you, creating a one-of-a-kind paddling experience. Each kayak is secured to a moving anchor by your guide, ensuring everyone stays safe as the Tennessee Valley Authority Lockmaster gradually empties the water from Chickamauga Lake down into the Tennessee River. As the water level drops, you’ll slowly descend within the lock until it matches the river below. Once the lock doors open, your guide leads you into the Tennessee River, where the gentle current carries you downriver, offering a relaxing and scenic continuation of the adventure. Highlights of your tour include: Descend within the lock to match river level below the damContinue paddling down the Tennessee River with a gentle currentLearn about the history of the dam and its impact on surrounding communitiesFuture trips will operate through a new lock double the size of the current one. This tour includes: Kayak, Lifejacket, Paddle GuideGroup throwbag, Group towlineGroup first aid kitKayak lightAdditional Included Gear for Fall and WinterNeoprene kayaking mittens AKA PoagiesDrip protection to keep your . Experience an unforgettable adventure kayaking through one of Chattanooga’s most fascinating landmarks, Chickamauga Dam. This guided tour takes you right into the 120-foot-tall lock, where the massive gates close behind you, creating a one-of-a-kind paddling experience. Each kayak is ...