The best MTB trails in Dade County

During my hike up Lookout Mountain, I passed the impressive New York State Monument, located on Cravens Terrace in the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park. This monument commemorates the soldiers from New York State who participated in the Battle of Lookout Mountain on November 24, 1863—a pivotal moment in the American Civil War. The monument stands on a site that was once the scene of fierce fighting between the Union and the Confederacy. General Ulysses S. Grant's troops fought here to relieve the besieged city of Chattanooga. The battle on the mountain, often referred to as the "Battle Above the Clouds," was not only strategically important but also symbolically powerful—a feeling you can still feel as you stand here.

The Ruby Falls Tower, located on iconic Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, Tennessee, offers breathtaking views of the Cumberland Plateau and the winding Tennessee River. Built in 1929 using limestone from the Ruby Falls Caverns, this historic tower is a perfect stop for those who appreciate nature, history, and panoramic views. From the tower's upper and lower terraces, you can enjoy 360° views of the surrounding landscape—an ideal spot for a break during your drive or hike. The tower is connected to the Blue Heron Overlook, which features a special color-correcting telescope for those with color blindness—a unique feature that makes this location even more accessible.

The guild trail crosses the Incline Rail in this spot. The Incline Railway travels from below Lookout Mountain up to Point Park. Other than this train track crossing, the Guild Trail is mostly secluded double-track trail.

Ruby Falls is an underground waterfall with a 145-foot drop. The falls are open every day except for holidays, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. There is a fee to visit and take a tour. The waterfall is lit up with blue and purple lights, and there are many other rock formations to see on the cave tour as well.

Lula Lake is an emerald pool with a 20-foot waterfall flowing into it. The lake is right off the side of the trail and is fed by Rock Creek. The cascading falls flowing into the lake is a cool feature, but Lula Falls, just up the trail.

The road around Raccoon Mountain Reservoir is a popular spot because of the great views of the reservoir and the mountains in the distance. The road is open to traffic, so make sure you enjoy the views safely and are aware of cars and other road users.

The Raccoon Mountain Reservoir trail network includes over 20 miles of singletrack trails interconnecting all around the reservoir. Some trails are more difficult than others, but basically all the trails are open to both foot-traffic and mountain bikes so be aware of other trail users. There are a variety of trailheads and loops/routes you can do, but the most common loop is the loop that circles the entire reservoir.

This wooden bridge lies along 'Cloudland Canyon Connector' and crosses an unnamed tributary of 'Price Branch'. With its forestry background, it also suits as a nice photo motif.