The Property
Becoming Talking Water
Talking Water Nature Retreat is more than just land—it’s the heart and soul of everything our family has built. Once part of Cherokee territory and later used for lumber and gem mining, this 82-acre mountaintop haven near Chattanooga has undergone a remarkable transformation. What was once considered the neighborhood’s “ugly duckling” is now a peaceful village of handmade cabins, lovingly built by our family and set atop a gorgeous bluff.
Today, our focus is on revitalizing the land, breathing life back into a landscape that had been depleted of its natural resources, and creating a place where people can reconnect with nature, themselves, and each other. Read through our story and get to know us a little better–we can’t wait to share it with you.
Our Journey with the Land
With determination and a shared vision, we purchased the land in April 2022 and set to work. The first few months were spent restoring the natural beauty that had been hidden under years of neglect. We removed decaying tree remnants, disposed of buried trailer homes, and worked tirelessly to control erosion and bring the land closer to its natural elevation. Our goal was simple: to reveal the hidden charm of this property and create a space where others could experience the magic we felt.
A Place to Reconnect
On July 4th, 2023, we officially opened the Talking Water Nature Retreat to the world. Since then, we’ve been thrilled to share this special place with our guests, offering them a chance to sleep under the stars, wake up to the sound of birdsong, and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.
Today, four of our Songbird cabins—Chickadee, Whippoorwill, Goldfinch, and Blackbird—are complete, each offering a unique experience.
Revitalizing the Land
The history of this property is one of resilience. Once part of Cherokee land, it was later used for occasional lumber and gem mining, activities that gradually depleted its natural resources. When we took ownership, our mission was clear: to restore and reemphasize the natural beauty and vitality of the land. Our efforts are ongoing, but every day brings us closer to a landscape that reflects the harmony and balance we believe in.
Our journey with this land is far from over. As we continue to build, plant, and nurture, we’re excited to see how Talking Water will grow and evolve. We hope that every guest who visits feels the same sense of peace, wonder, and connection that we do every time we walk these trails and sit by the creek.