Raccoon Mountain Reservoir trail loop

Parking is available at various access points around Raccoon Mountain. The area is conveniently located just 15 minutes from downtown Chattanooga, making it an accessible outdoor amenity.

While Raccoon Mountain is close to Chattanooga, public transportation options directly to the trailheads are limited. It's generally recommended to access the area by car.

Yes, the trails at Raccoon Mountain are generally dog-friendly. However, always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all users and protect the wildlife.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round. In winter, the absence of leaves offers even more expansive views of the Tennessee River Gorge, and it's a prime location to spot bald eagles. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, while summer can be warm, so plan for early morning or late afternoon jogs.

There are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the trails at Raccoon Mountain. The extensive trail system is open for public use.

The primary Reservoir Loop is a 4.6-mile paved road with 369 feet of elevation gain, making it moderately challenging due to its hilly nature. Beyond this, the broader Raccoon Mountain trail system offers over 28-30 miles of multi-use singletrack trails, ranging from intermediate to advanced, with mixed hardwood forests and grasslands.

Joggers on the Reservoir Loop will enjoy great views of the 12-billion-gallon reservoir itself, along with several scenic overlooks. From various points, you can see breathtaking views of the Tennessee River Gorge, distant mountains, downtown Chattanooga, and Lookout Mountain. The route also passes through sections of the Raccoon Mountain Reservoir Trail System and the Laurel Point path.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Switchyard Connector, Small Intestine Trail, Megawatt, Laurel Point, Electric Avenue Two, Grindstone Ridge, Electric Avenue One, River Gorge Trail, East Rim, Six Flags, Free Ride Area, High Voltage, River Gorge, Split Rock, Live Wire 1, Little Chunky, and Reservoir Overlook.

Raccoon Mountain is a state-designated Wildlife Observation Area. During winter, it's a prime location to spot bald eagles. You may also encounter other local wildlife in the mixed hardwood forests and grasslands.

The Raccoon Mountain trail system is multi-use, popular with both runners and mountain bikers. While hikers technically have the right of way, runners should be aware that mountain bikers frequently use these trails, especially the singletrack sections. On the paved Reservoir Loop, be cautious of vehicle traffic as portions are two-way.

Yes, Raccoon Mountain is home to the Tennessee Valley Authority's (TVA) largest hydroelectric facility, the Raccoon Mountain Pumped-Storage Plant. This unique operation pumps water to the mountaintop reservoir for electricity generation. A visitor center provides an opportunity to learn more about this facility.