Summary:
Chickadee Cabin @ Talking Water Nature Retreat
Just a beautiful 20-minute drive to downtown Chattanooga
Welcome to Chickadee, your cheerful log cabin tucked into the woods on top of Suck Creek Mountain. It’s the kind of place where mornings start slow with coffee in a rocking chair, and afternoons are made for hammock naps out on the deck.
Inside, you’ll find a bright, comfy space that feels like home, only quieter, cozier, and surrounded by nature. Step outside and you’re just a short hike from trails, swimming holes, and even a sweet little chicken coop just down the driveway.
Whether you’re planning big adventures in Prentice Cooper State Forest or just looking to unwind by the fire, Chickadee makes it easy to breathe deep, slow down, and enjoy the magic of the mountain.
The Space:
Simple comforts. Mountain breeze. Front porch peace. 🐥🌲
Chickadee Cabin is a charming modern log cabin nestled in the heart of the Songbird Neighborhood @ Talking Water Nature Retreat. Surrounded by forest and filled with light, Chickadee offers that cozy, just-right feeling for travelers who want to slow down, settle in, and soak up a little mountain magic.
Start your day with coffee in a rocking chair, spend the afternoon lounging on the built-in hammock on the deck, and drift off to sleep with the sounds of crickets and creek water nearby. It’s all about nature, ease, and the joy of being together—whether with family, friends, or just your own good company.
At Chickadee, you’ll find:
- Sleeping space for up to 6 guests
- Full indoor bathroom & shower
- Outdoor shower (seasonal - a guest favorite!)
- Full kitchen & island bar stools
- Outdoor campsite grill & picnic table
- Electric fireplace, TV, and Wi-Fi
- Covered front porch and sunny back deck with hammock
- Stone patio with rustic seating & a classic firepit
Chickadee is one of four cabins at Talking Water Nature Retreat, a family-built sanctuary on 82 private acres with hiking trails, creek access, and gathering spaces for up to 26 guests. Whether you’re planning a solo reset or a weekend with your people, Chickadee invites you to breathe deep and be present.
🌿 The Songbird Pavilion
At the heart of the neighborhood is the Songbird Pavilion, a shared space where guests can gather, cook, and play. It includes:
- Outdoor kitchen (electric griddle, sink, cabinets)
- Firepit with chairs and benches
- Tables for dining, games, or storytelling
- Slide, tetherball, and hiking trail just steps away
- Guest laundry + games, books, and supplies in the nearby garage
🪶 Book a Cabin or the Whole Flock
The Songbird Neighborhood includes Chickadee, Whippoorwill, Goldfinch, and Blackbird, each sleeping 6–7 guests. Rent one for a peaceful escape, or reserve all four for a private retreat with your whole crew (up to 26 guests).
Whether it’s stories around the fire, muddy boots after a good hike, or hammock time under the trees, Talking Water is where connection, joy, and renewal come naturally.
Guest Access:
When you book Chickadee Cabin, you’ll enjoy:
- Full private use of the cabin
- Your own patio and porch
- Private outdoor shower for rinsing under the stars ✨
- Parking for 3–5 cars right in the driveway
You’ll also have shared access to:
- The Songbird Pavilion, a cozy community space with an outdoor kitchen, firepit, and lots of room to gather
- The guest laundry room and extra supplies (located in the nearby garage)
Whether you’re here to reconnect with loved ones or just need a quiet place to rest, Chickadee has everything you need for a relaxed, nature-filled stay.
The Neighborhood:
Talking Water is a dream-turned-reality created by the Sonner-Such family (John & Karen Sonner, Ken Sonner, and James & Bobbie Such). Together, we’re transforming an 82-acre mud-pit atop Suck Creek Mountain into an evolving sanctuary of living earth, eclecic creativity, and human connection.
We’re nestled in the rural Suck Creek Mountain community surrounded by nature’s best:
🌲 Prentice Cooper State Forest borders our southern end
💧 One mile of Suck Creek flows through our land to the east
🌊 The Tennessee River runs along our road at the base of the mountain
We’re doing our best to honor this powerful land with restoration, quirky charm, and a deep love for people and place.
Getting Around:
You will want a car - or at least a bicycle! It is a 10-12 minute car ride down the mountain to get groceries.
Other Things to Note:
🛏 Sleeping Arrangements
- King bed (sleeps 2)
- Sleeper futon right next to the bed (sleeps 2 when unfolded)
- Eno hammock hooks for 2 hammocks — hammocks and straps provided (sleeping in them is a guest favorite!)
🚗 Parking
- Chickadee includes parking for 3–5 cars in the driveway.
- Need more? Just message us to arrange additional parking.
🐾 Pets
- Pets are welcome with prior approval from the hosts. A pet fee applies.
- Guests are responsible for any damage and must crate pets when unattended (crates available upon request).
- Please keep pets under control at all times and clean up all waste.
Interaction with Guests:
We, the Sonner-Such family members, work out of the garage office during the day and do the cabin cleanings. Feel free to say hi or to keep to yourself!
