Stringer’s Ridge
Chattanooga’s Urban Wilderness
Stringer's Ridge is one of the most celebrated urban trail systems in the country, featuring six miles of multi-use trails across 100 preserved acres nestled in the heart of the city, overlooking downtown Chattanooga and the Tennessee River. What makes this place special isn't just the riding, it's the story. In 2007, plans emerged to develop over 500 condominiums on one of the last undeveloped green spaces within city limits. The community rallied to stop it. The Trust for Public Land stepped in to launch a massive $2.4 million conservation campaign, securing the land and transforming this critical ridge line into a national model for urban trail stewardship.
Through continued collaboration between the City of Chattanooga and the City of Red Bank, the park has expanded to connect directly to Red Bank's White Oak Park. Today, Stringer's Ridge welcomes thousands of riders, runners, and walkers each year. At the ridge's summit, a scenic overlook offers some of the best views in the city.
Recommended Routes
Stringer's Counter Clockwise Power Hour
Distance: ~5 miles
Elevation Gain: ~700 ft
Difficulty: Intermediate
Start/End: Spears Ave Trailhead
Chattanooga's go-to ride when time is short but you still want a real workout. Rolling ridgeline singletrack, punchy climbs on Hill City and Double J, and consistent elevation changes reward fitness and momentum — all within the city limits. This route climbs the Cherokee Trail to access the overlook for panoramic views of downtown and the Tennessee River. Be sure to follow directional signage; this route runs counter clockwise on Tue/Thurs/Sun.
Why ride it: A quick, punchy workout with big-city views, proof that you don't need to leave downtown to get a real ride in