Located on the banks of the Tennessee River just across from downtown Chattanooga, the Moccasin Bend National Archaeological District is easily accessible from I-24. Named by Native Americans for its distinctive boot shape when viewed from the bluff of Lookout Mountain, Moccasin Bend can trace its human history back 12,000 years. Added in 2003, the Bend is the newest unit of the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park. 

There are two easy trails suitable for family outings and trail runners seeking an off-road option close to downtown. The 3-mile Blue Blazes trail loop or the 1.2-mile out and back Brown’s Ferry Federal Road trail are best to visit during fall and winter to avoid the swampy low lying areas that occur in the rainy spring and summer months.

Moccasin Bend is a popular road biking destination that takes cyclists through a busy industrial area before transitioning into a scenic, green peninsula that is heavily populated by deer and wild turkey. The ride is best early in the morning or in the evening after rush hour has cleared.

The back half of the loop runs through a residential area before spilling onto Cherokee Blvd., through the Stringers Ridge Tunnel for a fast downhill finish back into town.

The route is well suited for adults and older teenagers who want to begin riding on trafficked roads or who desire a shorter, scenic route close to downtown.