Moonshine Trails

Two people riding mountain bikes on a trail through a dense green forest with sunlight filtering through the trees.

Lookout Mountain’s Singletrack Hub

Perched on the slopes of Lookout Mountain, the Moonshine Trails embrace their namesake with full commitment! Trail names like White Lightning, Firewater, and Bathtub Gin pay homage to the area's colorful history of illicit whiskey distillation hidden in these very hills. Established by Lula Lake Land Trust in 2017, this 9-mile system feels far more remote than its distance from the city suggests. Thick hardwood forest and rocky creek corridors create a backcountry atmosphere that rewards riders who seek something quieter and more exploratory.

The Chattanooga Connector Trail (CCT) runs through the heart of the system as the primary climbing route, with several side trails branching off to offer their own distinct personalities. Firewater winds through rocky creek corridors and wooded terrain. White Lightning delivers a fast, flowing descent that lives up to its name with narrow passages and just enough technical spice. Bathtub Gin offers tighter turns and boulder features for those who want more challenge.

Moonshine Trails on Trailforks.com
A trail guide titled 'Dirt Deets' providing information about an off-road trail. It states the trail is approximately 9 miles long, has an intermediate to advanced difficulty level, with a trail breakdown of 1 green, 2 blue, and 1 black sections. The primary trailhead is at Rock Creek Fellowship Parking Lot or Hwy 189 Pulloff. Parking is free and pet friendly with a leash. The amenities include a backcountry campsite. It notes no facilities on site and the parking lot is unavailable from 9 to 11:30 am on Sundays, and advises not to park along Lula Lake Road at the trail entrance. The guide also lists local places to eat (Massey’s Kitchen, Little Coyote, Goodman’s Coffee), nearby accommodations (Cloudland Canyon State Park, Chattileer Inn, Inn at Lookout Mountain), and activities (Lula Lake Land Trust open-access weekends, Ruby Falls, Point Park).

Recommended Routes

Two people mountain biking on a dirt trail in a dense forest surrounded by green foliage.

Full Moonshine Tour

Distance: 11.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,115 ft
Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced
Start/End: Rock Creek Church (except Sunday mornings)

A complete tour of the Moonshine system — steady climbing on the CCT, exploratory rocky terrain on Firewater, and the fast flowing reward of White Lightning on the descent. Rocks and boulders throughout keep experienced riders engaged. Add Bathtub Gin for extra technical challenge. One of the most backcountry-feeling rides within 30 minutes of downtown Chattanooga.

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