Tennessee Riverwalk and Lookout Mountain Loop

This route is quite diverse, combining easy paved sections with more challenging climbs. On average, touring cyclists can expect to complete the full 27.6 km (17.1 miles) loop in about 2 hours, but this can vary significantly based on your pace and how much time you spend enjoying the views and points of interest.

The terrain is a mix, offering a diverse experience. The Tennessee Riverwalk portion is primarily a paved multi-use path, featuring concrete and boardwalk sections, making it generally smooth and accessible. However, the Lookout Mountain sections involve more strenuous gravel and potentially technical mountain bike terrain, with significant climbing and rocky sections. You'll transition from urban riverside paths to unpaved mountain trails.

While the Tennessee Riverwalk section is largely flat and beginner-friendly, the overall route is rated as 'difficult' due to the significant climbs and varied terrain on Lookout Mountain. Beginners might find the mountain sections challenging. It's best suited for intermediate to experienced touring cyclists comfortable with both paved paths and unpaved, sometimes technical, gravel climbs.

Given the combination of paved Riverwalk and challenging gravel/technical sections on Lookout Mountain, a gravel bike with appropriate tires (e.g., 27.5x2.1) or a mountain bike would be most suitable. While a road or hybrid bike is fine for the Riverwalk, it would struggle on the unpaved, rocky, and steep mountain climbs.

There isn't one single official starting point for this combined loop, but many cyclists begin near the Tennessee Riverwalk. You could start near attractions like the Tennessee Aquarium or Coolidge Park in downtown Chattanooga, where public parking is available. For the Lookout Mountain section, parking is often available near trailheads like the Guild-Hardy Trail or Point Park, which is part of the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park.

You'll encounter a variety of sights. Along the Riverwalk, enjoy constant river views, the Tennessee Aquarium, Bluff View Art District, and Blue Goose Hollow Park. As you ascend Lookout Mountain, you'll find historical sites like Cravens House and be rewarded with views of Lookout Mountain and panoramic overlooks of Chattanooga. The route also passes by the Point Park Entrance Gate.

The Tennessee Riverwalk itself does not require permits or fees. However, sections of the Lookout Mountain portion of this route pass through Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, specifically Point Park. While there are no general cycling permits required for the trails, there is an entrance fee to access Point Park itself. Check the National Park Service website for current fee information and operating hours.

The Tennessee Riverwalk is generally dog-friendly, with many cyclists and walkers bringing their leashed dogs. For the Lookout Mountain sections, especially within Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, dogs are typically allowed on trails but must be kept on a leash. Always ensure your dog is well-behaved and that you clean up after them.

Spring and Fall are generally the best times. In spring, the weather is mild, and foliage is vibrant. Fall offers comfortable temperatures and stunning autumn colors, especially on Lookout Mountain. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be chilly, though cycling is often possible on clear days. Always check the weather forecast before you go.

Yes, this comprehensive route incorporates sections of several other trails. You'll spend significant time on the Tennessee Riverwalk and also traverse parts of the Guild Trail, Hardy Trail, Bluff Trail, and Point Park Trails, among others, as you navigate Lookout Mountain.

Along the Tennessee Riverwalk, you'll find numerous amenities in downtown Chattanooga, including cafes, restaurants, and water fountains. As you climb Lookout Mountain, options become scarcer, so it's advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks for that portion of the ride. There are some establishments in the St. Elmo neighborhood at the base of Lookout Mountain.