Raccoon Mountain: Where Trails Carve the Wild

High above Chattanooga, where the forest meets the sky, Raccoon Mountain pulses with the energy of riders hungry for adventure. Its web of trails winds through rugged terrain, a playground for mountain bikers of every skill level. The paths here carve the earth with poetic precision, flowing through dense woods and rocky ridges, always hinting at the next challenge.

The ascent begins in dappled light, the sun filtering through hardwoods that sway in the breeze. But soon, the mountain reveals its teeth. Rocks thrust upward like the jagged bones of the mountain, roots twist beneath your tires, and the trail demands split-second decisions. Attack or finesse? Cresting the ridge, the forest opens, gifting you a sweeping view of the Tennessee River Valley before plunging you back into the embrace of the wild.

The trails themselves are a collision of challenge and euphoria. The East Rim Trail is perfect for beginners, with its gentle curves and manageable climbs. More seasoned riders will find their match on Grindstone Ridge or Live Wire 1, where speed and technical features dance in perfect harmony. And then there’s Megawatt—a black diamond beast of a descent that barrels downhill in tight, rocky switchbacks, leaving even the most seasoned riders grinning in adrenaline-fueled triumph.

Raccoon Mountain isn’t just a test of skill; it’s a communion with nature. The trails snake through pines that tower like cathedral spires and skirt ledges where lichen etches the story of time. As you roll back toward the trailhead, muscles aching and heart alive, you carry the mountain’s wild spirit with you, a badge of your adventure.

Mountain Biking at Raccoon Mountain: Trails for Every Rider

Raccoon Mountain, just 20 minutes from downtown Chattanooga, offers some of the best mountain biking trails in the Southeast. With over 30 miles of singletrack, this destination caters to everyone, from beginners to expert riders.

Trail Highlights

1. Beginner Trails

• East Rim Trail: A relatively easy loop with gentle climbs and rewarding views. Great for finding your balance and rhythm.
• Laurel Point Trail: Smooth, flowy, and perfect for building confidence.

2. Intermediate Trails

• Grindstone Ridge: A mix of smooth singletrack and technical sections, with occasional rocky challenges.
• Live Wire 1: A fast-paced trail that combines moderate climbs with exhilarating downhill segments.

3. Advanced Trails

• Megawatt: A black diamond descent with tight switchbacks, steep drops, and rocky terrain—perfect for adrenaline junkies.
• Live Wire 2: A longer, more technical version of its predecessor, featuring roots, rocks, and sharp turns.

What to Bring

• Protective Gear: A helmet is a must; knee and elbow pads are recommended for advanced trails.
• Hydration: A water bladder or multiple bottles for long rides.
• Repair Kit: Trails can be rough, so pack tools for on-the-go fixes.

Tips for Riders

• Trails are well-marked, but downloading a map from apps like Trailforks is a good idea.
• Watch for wildlife, including deer and snakes, especially in shaded areas.
• Mornings or late afternoons are the best times to ride, avoiding peak heat.

Getting There

Raccoon Mountain is located 20 minutes west of Chattanooga via US-64. Follow signs for the TVA Raccoon Mountain Pumped Storage Facility, where ample parking and trail access await.

Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or a peaceful ride with killer views, Raccoon Mountain delivers.