Raccoon Mountain
Chattanooga’s Iconic Trail System
Just 15 minutes west of downtown Chattanooga, Raccoon Mountain is one of the Southeast’s most iconic mountain bike destinations. Built through a long-standing partnership between SORBA Chattanooga and the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), this rugged trail system offers nearly 30 miles of purpose-built singletrack with everything from smooth, flowing sections to rock gardens, punchy climbs, and technical descents.
The trails wrap around TVA’s Raccoon Mountain Pumped Storage Facility, an impressive hydroelectric project that features a massive reservoir perched on top of the mountain. Constructed in the 1970s, the reservoir stores energy by pumping water uphill at night and releasing it during peak demand. Families and casual riders can enjoy the paved loop around the reservoir, while road cyclists often test themselves on the steep climb to the top. But for mountain bikers, the real magic is in the dirt.
Raccoon Mountain’s trail story began in 2005 when SORBA volunteers proposed building singletrack on TVA land surrounding the facility. TVA said yes, and by 2007 volunteers were cutting trail. By 2015, the system had grown to nearly 30 miles, establishing Raccoon as a must-ride destination.
Named with an electric theme—Electric Avenue, Live Wire, High Voltage, Megawatt—these trails deliver classic Southern Appalachian riding: rocky terrain, switchback climbs, technical features, and big views of the Tennessee River Gorge and Lookout Mountain. With over 1,200 feet of elevation change, Raccoon rewards strong, skilled riders while offering plenty of variety to keep every ride memorable.
Recommended Routes
Advanced Route: Outer Loop (From the Top)
Distance: ~13 miles
Elevation Gain: ~1,800 ft
Difficulty: Advanced
Start/End: East Overlook Parking Lot
The Outer Loop is Raccoon Mountain’s signature advanced ride offering a full tour of the mountain by linking many of its most iconic trails. Expect sustained climbing, fast descents, rocky technical sections, and exposed ridgeline riding with sweeping views of the river gorge and downtown Chattanooga. This route is best suited for confident, well-prepared riders looking for a true big-day challenge.
Why ride it: Classic Raccoon tech, big views, and a full-value loop that showcases the mountain’s character.
Intermediate Route:
Distance: ~10 miles
Elevation Gain: ~900 ft
Difficulty: Intermediate
Start/End: East Overlook TH
The Blue Lollipop is the perfect introduction to Raccoon Mountain’s technical style. This intermediate loop blends flowing singletrack, manageable rock features, and rolling elevation into a fun, confidence-building ride. It delivers the Raccoon experience without the relentless demands of the full Outer Loop, making it ideal for strong intermediate riders or mixed-ability groups.
Why ride it: A balanced mix of flow, tech, and scenery that’s challenging yet approachable.