Last month, we introduced you to Bryant and Elise Hawkins, a world-traveling couple who recently relocated to Chattanooga. In order to get to know their new city, they kicked off a yearlong trail project. Every week, they choose a different footpath varying in length and difficulty, located within one hour of Chattanooga, to hike and review.
This week spotlights another classic: Lookout Mountain's Kiddie Trail to Sunset Rock.
KIDDIE TRAIL TO SUNSET ROCK
Type: Out-and-back
Distance: ~4 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 2-2.5 hours
Traffic level: Moderate
Dog-friendly: Yes
Highlights: Panoramic views, picnic area, rock climbing (trad)
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Last week we took on a classic: Signal Mountain trail to the Rainbow Lake dam. This week, we decided to tackle a favorite Lookout Mountain destination: Sunset Rock. While many hikers take the Bluff Trail from Point Park, we decided to start at the bottom of Lookout Mountain using the Kiddie Trail.
Even in 28-degree weather, we had a great time with the dogs on this moderate hike.
The Kiddie Trail trailhead lies on Garden Road one mile south of Cummings Highway (it is searchable on Google Maps). There is a small, gravel parking lot on the right-hand side directly across the street from the trailhead. This lot has space for approximately 10 cars, so I imagine it fills up on a nice, warm day. Lucky for us, we were the only car around because reasonable people stay indoors during subfreezing weather.
The trail begins with a short but steep climb - a great way to get your body warmed up on a chilly day. There is a map at the trailhead for reference. After the short climb, the trail levels out, allowing you to catch your breath. I noticed the hike as a whole follows this trend: short burst of elevation gain followed by flat, level intervals. I enjoy this style of hike because it's accessible for hikers of all levels.
At approximately 0.5 miles, the Kiddie Trail dead-ends into Skyuka Trail. Follow the brown sign toward Sunset Rock. After a few more minutes, you'll reach another fork. Follow signage to the left. Overall, the trail system on Lookout Mountain is very well marked, so you never have to wonder whether or not you're on track.
Around 0.9 miles there is a third fork that connects to Gum Springs Trail. There is a steep climb at the start of Gum Springs Trail, but again, it doesn't last too long. Once the trail levels, a large boulder appears on the left, providing a winter peak-a-boo view. It's a great pit stop, but better views lie ahead at Sunset Rock.
When you reach a fourth trail intersection, take a right to find your next sign point. This is a good opportunity to drink water, because the final 0.7-mile stretch is the most challenging portion of the hike. It's a steep battle against gravity, but the panoramic view at the top is worth it.
During the final ascent, the Gum Springs Trail intersects with Bluff Trail at a large, flaky boulder. Turn left here to reach a set of stairs toward your destination. At the top, you'll be rewarded with a perfect picnic location overlooking the valley.
Just remember, Sunset Rock can be crowded on a pleasant evening. I highly recommend doing this hike on a cold day if you prefer a more peaceful, quiet experience. Just wear plenty of layers.
Bryant and Elise HawkinsIn late December, Bryant and Elise Hawkins, recent Chattanooga transplants, kicked off a yearlong hiking project. Every week, they choose a different trail, varying in length and difficultly and located within one hour of Chattanooga, to hike and review.
Bryant is a photojournalist, whose works has appeared in The New York Times and the Los Angeles Times, among other places. Elise is currently working on a Master's of Education at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Together, the outdoor enthusiasts hope to discover the region's endless outdoor opportunities.
You can follow the Hawkins' hiking adventures by "liking" Get Out Chattanooga on Facebook, where we share their write-ups every Friday.
Have a trail suggestion for the Hawkins? Email them at info@bryanthawkins.com.