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Sunset Rock
4.8 ★★★★★ 1,241 Google reviews · Running trail in Lookout Mountain, Tennessee · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- 1.1 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Sunset Rock's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Rocky cliff overlooking a valley & Battle of Wauhatchie site with a steep hiking trail.
What runners say about Sunset Rock
“Once you reach the top, the view is absolutely stunning—panoramic city and nature sights that are perfect for photos.”
“Overall, Sunset Rock is a great spot for anyone looking for an easy hike with a rewarding view.”
The walk to and from the viewing area isn't for everyone but well worth the effort because the views are amazing! It's about a quarter mile journey over some rocky steps and maybe 100 feet of elevation change. There's about a 10 car free parking space and it's free to view the west side of the mountain.
The parking spots are limited and easy to miss as it's located next to a residential house. Stunning view, definitely recommend it! There is a little trail to the left and it's steep, when you go down there you will find a 1.1 mile trail connecting to Point Park.
Beautiful. Free. Limited parking. Most people go to the rock city gardens which I've heard is a transforming experience but I wasn't trying to make a pit stop $40 per person so I went to sunset rock which was a short 5-10min rocky path to a beautiful view.
I recently visited Sunset Rock in Chattanooga, and it was an awesome experience. The hike to the viewpoint is short and manageable, making it perfect for a quick outdoor adventure. Parking is a bit limited, so arriving early is a good idea, but it’s definitely worth it.
Trail conditions & character
“Once you reach the top, the view is absolutely stunning—panoramic city and nature sights that are perfect for photos.”
“One more tip: locals sometimes offer parking for $10, but they don’t give change — so make sure to have small bills with you.”
“It's about a quarter mile journey over some rocky steps and maybe 100 feet of elevation change.”
“It's about a quarter mile journey over some rocky steps and maybe 100 feet of elevation change.”
Plan your run at Sunset Rock
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- Distance1.1 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
Running trails near Lookout Mountain
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Point Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 4,336 reviews
Elevated memorial park, featuring Civil War monuments, artillery & exhibits, plus sweeping vistas.
Guild-Hardy Trailhead, Lookout Mountain Trails
4.6 ★★★★★ 343 reviews
Shaded trail, featuring a waterfall and bike-riding trails, plus scenic overlooks.
Tennessee Riverpark Wheland Foundry Trailhead
4.7 ★★★★★ 162 reviews
Park featuring a paved trail for walking and biking, along with a restroom.
Blue Blazes Trail
4.1 ★★★★☆ 136 reviews
2-mi. loop trail along ancient shorelines via forests & swamps, with a Tennessee River overlook.
