Sunset Rock via the Bluff Trail

Hike from one amazing view to another on this ultra scenic short hike from the tip of Lookout Mountain at Point Park to Sunset Rock. Just outside Chattanooga, Lookout Mountain has several trail options and this route is one of the more traveled trail sections. This one is good for kids and dogs with just a couple steep drop offs to be wary of.

Follow signs for parking behind the Visitor Center across from the castle-like entrance to Point Park. All other street parking is an additional fee. From the entrance, a paved path makes a loop around the tall New York monument with incredible views on both sides of Chattanooga nestled snugly around the twisting Tennessee River. At the far end, follow the sign for Ochs Museum to another loop with even more views.

On the left/west side of the Museum, the connector to the Bluff Trail heads down the steps just outside the old stone building. Pass another view, heading down a couple sets of metal steps before reaching the intersection with the Bluff Trail to the left and the Mountain Beautiful Trail to the right. A sign also points left for Sunset Rock.

You won't get much in the way of views, but the Bluff Trail travels alongside many exposed vertical rock cliffs with steep drop offs on the opposite side of the trail. Just before the next intersection, hike underneath a huge rock bluff jutting out over the trail. You are now under Sunset Rock. Continue on to the signed intersection, turning left. After some steps, you'll come to another unsigned trail split. Go left, right leads towards some houses.

Pass several amazing views to the larger open view atop Sunset Rock. From here you'll get 180-degree views toward west Chattanooga, the Tennessee River Gorge and Prentice Cooper State Forest. Now just turn around and retrace your steps back to Point Park, going from view to view to view. If you want the view without the hike, try the .1 mile Sunset Rock Trail.