Raccoon Mountain Caverns & Campground has a brand-new way for guests and the chattanooga community to experience the outdoors. A recently completed connector trail now links the campground directly to the Aetna Mountain Trail system, creating easy access to a growing network of more than 10 miles of singletrack trails for mountain bikers, hikers, and trail runners. This project, made possible through a partnership with the Tennessee River Gorge Trust (TRGT), makes it simpler than ever to step into adventure directly from Raccoon Mountain Campground.
From Campground to Trail
Guests no longer need to drive to reach the trails. Instead, they can step out of their cabin, RV, or tent and start exploring right from camp. The new connector leads straight into the mountain-top trails, giving visitors instant access to wooded paths, ridge views, and a variety of outdoor challenges. Whether you want a quiet morning hike, a long trail run, or a ride on rugged singletrack, this new path makes it all possible without starting your journey behind the wheel.
Resort Manager Lillie Womack summed it up best: “This partnership is about connecting people to nature in a meaningful and sustainable way.” The campground and TRGT worked together to build a trail that enhances access while respecting the mountain’s natural beauty.
Built for Adventure and Conservation
The Tennessee River Gorge Trust, which protects more than 27,000 acres of the Tennessee River Gorge, played a key role in developing this project. Together, we designed the trail to minimize environmental impact and to protect wildlife habitats. By using conservation-minded construction, the new connector balances the excitement of outdoor recreation with the responsibility of stewardship.
Guests will notice the difference. Instead of a heavily built path, the trail blends with its surroundings, inviting hikers and riders to move through the landscape rather than overtake it. Scenic overlooks along the way offer views of the Tennessee River Gorge and the rolling ridges that make this region so special.
Aetna Mountain
The Aetna Mountain Trail system is quickly becoming one of the area’s premier destinations for outdoor recreation. Once complete, it will include more than 10 miles of high-quality singletrack. Mountain bikers will find flowy sections and technical climbs. Hikers will discover trails that weave through hardwood forests and open up to sweeping views. Trail runners will appreciate the elevation changes and natural variety.
By connecting directly to these trails, Raccoon Mountain Caverns & Campground now gives guests a true basecamp experience. After a day of exploring underground caverns or enjoying the campground’s amenities, you can lace up your shoes or hop on your bike and head into the mountains without ever moving your car.
Why This Trail Matters
For many campers, convenience and access define a great trip. This new connection delivers both. Instead of packing up and driving to a trailhead, you simply step outside and go. Families can enjoy shorter hikes without the stress of logistics, while serious adventurers can dive into longer routes right from camp. The project also benefits the Chattanooga community by adding another entry point to the trail system, making outdoor recreation more accessible to everyone.
At its core, this trail represents more than a path through the woods. It symbolizes a partnership between conservation and recreation, a balance that ensures future generations can enjoy the beauty of Aetna Mountain. By choosing to stay at Raccoon Mountain Caverns & Campground, guests directly support this vision of responsible access.
Plan Your Visit
We invite you to be among the first to experience the new connector trail. Bring your bike, hiking shoes, or running gear and explore the best of Aetna Mountain right from camp. With the Tennessee River Gorge at your doorstep, adventure is only steps away.
To book your stay, visit raccoonmountain.com or call 423.821.9403 ext. 2. For more details about the Aetna Mountain Trail system, check out the Tennessee River Gorge Trust.
