Elsie A. Holmes Nature Park

Secret little nature area we never knew about! Nice little network of trails, some that go right next to the Chickamauga Creek. Some area were a little grown over so we had to carry our little kids through the brush. The parking area is very big. There’s a small (brand new??) playground with swings, picnic benches, and bathrooms with actual soap and running water. Can’t wait to come back for another hike and picnic lunch.

We were so surprised to find such a beautiful park by accident. Had a beautiful 2+ mile walk with lots of birds and wildflowers. The beginning and end of the main trail are a little steep and are rocky, so a good pair of shoes are important. But it is well worth it for the exercise and the beauty. The river was also beautiful.

This is a beautiful, quiet little nature park surrounded by bordering neighborhoods. The terrain isn’t too rough, but there are some hills and change in elevation. The trails lead down to the steadily-flowing, calm South Chickamauga Creek. You could probably swim in the water, and I don’t believe there is anything that speaks against that. It’s ultimately your choice!

This is definitely a cool little place to check out!

Beautiful peaceful quiet place to sit or walk the trails taking photos.

Not a bad local place to hike. It'll take about 1-1.5 hours to go fully around the white trail. There are some overgrown areas tho. They have a pavilion you can rent for $50. They just added swings and they have good tables. There's also benches along the trail which is nice.

Beautiful trails. We are from Florida where we don't have seasons lol.. It was awesome to be able to go on a fall walk and enjoy the colors and fall views. I didn't get very far on the trails as I had a stroller but what we did get to and see was very beautiful. It was quiet and peaceful. There was at most 2 cars there the whole time we were there so it was a nice secluded spot.

Awesome place for a hike, the trails are a bit narrow in some sections, but overall I always enjoy this quiet little spot.

Elsie A Holmes Nature Park is a hidden gem in Ringgold! The entrance, gravel parking lot, rough trail map, older service buildings and even the sparsely managed trail and blazes, all disguise the wealth of flora to be found at the water’s edge once you reach the river that runs through the valley.

A smooth trodden trail runs river side of the South Chickamauga Creek whose banks are bursting with a dozen varieties of wild flowers. From Prairie Trilliums and Glade Phlox to Virginia Bluebells and Butter Weed. And don’t be fooled by the creek name, it’s over 50’ across at this point and definitely should be treated as a year around, fairly faster moving river.

Some of the trails leading down to the creek are uneven, washed out or steep and covered in loose gravel and are likely not the best for those who aren’t sure footed. The Ridge Loop Trail option (Blue) is designated wheelchair accessible which is suitable for, wagons, baby carriages or prams.

Be aware that the west branch of the High Water Trail (Yellow) is currently roped off between the Main Loop trail (White) and the Big Rock Trail (Red) due to a washed out foot bridge.

The bathrooms at the parking lot are lit and relatively clean. With running water and toilets that flush.

The stated hours on the sign say 6pm daily, but hours differ by time of year. My last hike here was April 2, 2022 and the park was open until 8pm according to Google Maps and I found this to be true as I stayed almost until 8pm.

Always a great time. Love taking my kids. Never fails to find fun souvenirs, rocks, shells, nuts, flowers. Many different trails to take and many good spots to stop and have a picnic or enjoy a view of the river. Well maintained and resting benches are all along the trails if we need a rest. Overall one of our favorite places to hike and walk.

Family get together was fantastic. Kids had plenty of trails to venture through and plenty of space for our large family and lots of other members of the community to roam about freely and not be crowded

Had my daughter's baby shower there. Although there was close to forty guest there was alot more room for more. All the guest were very impressed with the venue. It looked great decorated and we all loved the indoor/outdoor feel. The lady who rented it to me was very nice and helpful.

Our friend got married here yesterday. The wedding was beautiful. I never knew this place existed! Cute place for a small wedding or even a cookout. The playground was nice and clean. The kids enjoyed swinging.

So, like, it's a trail. I saw dogs there. I saw mountain bikes. Maybe that's helpful.

The main trail is relatively easy to traverse with several trails to make the hike more enjoyable. We stumbled upon a black water snake & many millipedes. We found out that the creek is home to many turtles that may hang around if you approach quietly. 🙂

The trails need some maintenance. It is a great place and I hope to see it thrive.

I was the only one there, drizzly a.m., but rain had stopped, ate my lunch, changed my clothes, and went on to work after church. Hadn't been there in well over a decade. Clean, peaceful, and pleasant.

This place is amazing for birthday parties or baby showers or family get together or a nice hiking day

Great trail, moderate trail that is a challa ge but not too bad. Beautiful view of flowing water and a cave with bats.noce outside sitting. Is a bit run down and there are old information boxes that ate along the trail that don't work. But I still love it.

Lovely park, lovely trails that were well marked.

Beautiful place great scenery had a good workout walking the trails