Raccoon Mountain Bike Trail System: Chattanooga's Gem for Off-Road Enthusiasts

A Stacked Loop System Near Chattanooga

Nested near Chattanooga, Tennessee, the Raccoon Mountain Bike Trail System is a haven for cyclists of all stripes. Offering a stacked loop system that caters to every skill level, this trail network promises something for everyone. Currently encompassing close to 50 miles, the trail network is a living project—still expanding since its inception in May 2007. Those within a 2-3 hour radius from Chattanooga will find the trip to these trails a worthwhile investment.

How to Get There

• From Chattanooga: Take I-24 W toward Nashville/Birmingham for approximately 3 miles.
• Exit: Take exit 175 for Browns Ferry Rd toward Lookout Mountain/Mountain View Dr.
• Turn: Turn right at Browns Ferry Rd and proceed for about 9/10th of a mile.
• Final Turn: Turn left at Elder Mountain Rd.

From there, follow the TVA Road to the top of the mountain and park at the East Brow Parking Lot. The trailhead is directly across the TVA road from the east brow parking lot and is marked with a small sign. First-timers might find it slightly challenging to locate, so keep your eyes peeled.

The Trails: Highlights and Challenges

Views and Terrain

The views from the trail system are nothing short of breathtaking, offering sweeping vistas that rival and surpass similar locales like Chicopee Woods in Gainesville, GA. The trail surfaces range from singletrack to gnarly rocks and roots, providing the perfect canvas for a variety of experiences. Cyclists fond of rock gardens will find the trail system a rewarding challenge.

Technical Difficulty

The level of difficulty ranges, but intermediate riders should note that some sections, especially the "High Voltage" climb, might feel more challenging than advertised. The Megawatt and Livewire 1&2 trails in particular offer a unique blend of techy, rocky and speedy sections. If you're a newbie or prefer less technical riding, stick to the greens and blues, like Small Intestine and River Gorge.

Some Notable Trails

• Livewire 1: Offers fun switchbacks and pump tracks—great for downhill if you go Counter Clockwise.
• Livewire 2: Double the length of Livewire 1, and notably more technical and rocky.
• Electric Avenue: A short, mostly downhill trail with a few small jumps.

Time Constraints

Many riders agree that there's not enough time to fully explore these trails. So plan accordingly, especially considering that the park entrance gates close at 5:30 PM.

Expert Tips and Recommendations

• Direction Matters: For a majority of the trails, riding Clockwise (CW) offers the most enjoyable experience.
• Map is Essential: The signage could use improvement; therefore, a clear map is indispensable.
• Safety: The trail's challenging nature means it's wise to ride in pairs or groups. Always carry basic repair tools and a phone.

Conclusion

The Raccoon Mountain Bike Trail System is undoubtedly among the top trails in the southeast. With its blend of technical and scenic elements, it offers something for everyone. However, its variety and technicality mean that the experience can vary widely based on your choices and preparedness. So gear up and set your sights on this Tennessee gem—just make sure you're clock-watching if you want to fit it all in.

• Distance: 24 miles (can vary based on loop choices)
• Level: Intermediate
• Route Type: Network
• Location: Chattanooga, Tennessee

Whether you are new to the sport or a seasoned pro, the Raccoon Mountain Trail