In 1954, Robert J. Maclellan gave the 18.8 acre island to the Chattanooga Audubon Society to be used as a wildlife sanctuary. The Island is located in the middle of the Tennessee River in the downtown area of Chattanooga. Veterans Bridge crosses over the downstream third of the Island. Prior to 1954, the Island was farmed. The vegetation on the Island is comprised of hardwood trees, many species of vines, a colony of river cane, and some wildflowers. A two-mile loop hiking trail follows the perimeter of the island. At the upstream end of the Island is a Great Blue Heron rookery. A unique feature of the Island is the existence of a rain shadow desert, the result of Veterans Bridge crossing the Island.

A donation of $1 per person will be requested to unload at the Island; 100% of funds collected will be forwarded to the Audubon Society.

What is the Chattanooga Audubon Society?
Chartered in 1944 by Robert Sparks Walker, the Chattanooga Audubon Society is a diverse organization established to educate and promote an understanding of the responsibility borne by all individuals to preserve and protect our environmental, cultural, and historical resources.The society owns natural habitats in East and Central Chattanooga as well as in northern Hamilton County. All three locations provide opportunities for observing and encountering nature. The society also provides diverse educational programs flexible enough to suit the needs of public and home school groups, religious and private groups. Public programming is provided through workshops, special annual events, and summer day camps.

The Audubon Society's mission is to educate and promote an understanding of the responsibility to preserve and protect our environmental, cultural, and historical resources through programming and stewardship.

Become a Member!!

Full-Time Student -- $20
Senior Citizen (55+) -- $20
Individual -- $25
Family -- $35
Sustaining -- $50
Sponsor -- $100
Patron -- $250
Benefactor -- $500

Chattanooga Audubon Society
900 North Sanctuary Road
Chattanooga, TN 37421
423-892-1499

chattanoogaaudubon.org