A New Guide for Chattanooga Riders

Chattanooga's growing mountain-bike community has a new resource for exploring trails throughout the region.

SORBA Chattanooga has released a printed, full-color pocket guide covering 12 regional trail systems.

The guide is designed to help both new and experienced riders choose places suited to their abilities and interests.

Where It Leads

The publication covers more than 190 miles of mountain-bike-accessible trails within approximately 30 minutes of downtown Chattanooga.

Featured destinations include Stringer's Ridge, Walden's Ridge Park, Raccoon Mountain, Aetna Mountain, Booker T. Washington State Park, Enterprise South Nature Park, White Oak Mountain, Bauxite Ridge, Moonshine Trails, Durham Mine, Five Points Recreation Area, and the River to Clouds Route.

Descriptions explain the kind of terrain and riding experiences visitors can expect, rather than replacing detailed turn-by-turn navigation.

How to Get a Copy

Printed copies are expected to be available at local bike shops, Outdoor Chattanooga, and selected retailers and businesses.

A $10 suggested donation supports trail construction and maintenance.

The guide's information is also available online through SORBA Chattanooga.

Its recommended routes feature QR codes connected to Trailforks, which offers mapping resources for riders, including offline navigation options.

Why the Trails Matter Beyond Recreation

According to figures cited in the guide announcement from a 2022 UTC Tourism Center study, mountain biking contributed an estimated $6.9 million annually to the local economy.

The study attributed approximately 44,089 visits per year to Hamilton County area mountain-bike trails, including visits from outside the county.

Those figures are historical estimates, not newly measured 2026 totals.

Trail activity supports nearby restaurants, lodging, retailers, and recreation-related businesses.

Choosing the Right Ride

For beginners, the guide's value is in distinguishing approachable trails from more technical riding.

More experienced cyclists can use it to discover new systems and compare different riding styles.

Riders should still check weather, trail closures, and current conditions before setting out, and choose routes that fit their skills and equipment.

More Outdoor Opportunities Ahead

The guide arrives as Tennessee continues developing cycling tourism resources.

SORBA and tourism partners view it as a model that could eventually be adapted to other outdoor interests such as hiking, paddling, and climbing.

For Chattanooga residents, it is a practical invitation to explore the extensive trail network close to home.