Skyuka and Bluff Trails Loop

This trail has both good and not so great qualities. It was not very well marked (I wouldn't have known which way to go really without using All Trails map while recording). Which way to go on the split depends whether your someone who likes the good or bad news first. I would probably recommend going right on the split. You will be greeted with a 7 mile hike down a mountain and just 2 or so miles (a little steeper, but shorter length) up the mountain. Nothing too crazy. When you finally make it back up the mountain, you have beautiful hike and views, whereas the first 7 miles are a little bit of a dull struggle. Not much to see or do. But I would rather end the hike off on good note. There were quite a few people at the top of sunset rock too, surprisingly. Seeing as it is just over 1 mile from the parking lot, maybe not so surprising. We may try to come back in the spring when there may actually be some water coming from the "springs". It's been so dry that there were less bugs than usual. Otherwise, good trail.

Aside from being the first on the trail and running into every single spider web in Tennessee, I really enjoyed this trail. However, be sure to check back to your route as the signs can be very deceiving. It isn't the best-marked trail in Chattanooga but, the sights are beautiful and the loop, with its significant gain, is a great long run for moderate level runners.

The trail itself isn’t difficult/hard, but it is definitely long. Great views along the bluff trail portion of the trail. I passed by several people rock climbing coming back towards Cravens House. I ran into only a few people along the trail and otherwise was alone. I hiked it at a moderate pace and completed in 4 hours. Lots of bugs and a snake passed along the trail in front of me! Overall enjoyable, relaxing, and a good workout.

this is a very enjoyable trail if you are looking for lots of nature and a peaceful environment. ive been going since I was a child and first enjoyed it with my girl scout troop. I'm 41 now and still find new things when I walk it. the hike isn't for amateurs because it gets a little challenging in a spots. it takes a while to walk so allow yourself plenty of time before dark and definitely bring a lunch and plenty of water. plan to spend several hours and wear good hiking shoes/ boots you'll need them! this is the kind of trail you need to bring a back pack with supplies on. flashlight and bug repellent are probably good ideas as well! overall this is probably my favorite trail. there are some spectacular views and you'll never see the city the same again!!

I also accidently did this trail. It's difficult to navigate due to bad and broke signs. Lots of steep, rocky terrain. Not a trail for beginners. As usual, the area under power transmission lines is not maintained, so be careful through there. Would not recommend. This trail shook our confidence as it took way too long, so we were out there well past dark. Bring plenty of water and a good flashlight. Watch for spiders.

Did not plan accordingly. Signage wasn't the best and did not know where we were going. However they are worn paths so we didn't necessarily get lost just turned around. Views were spectacular!!

Ended up doing this trail accidentally. Very difficult, but we managed to plow thru it. 11 miles of hard hiking. Not a lot of signage throughout the hike.

This “Big Daddy” loop trail is one of my favorite and harder trail runs I’ve done. Got a little sandbagged on this one. Loved the traverse to Skyuka Springs. Hated the 2 mile climb to Bluff view Trail via John Smartt.

Accidentally did this. Amazing Civil War signage. Not for kids.

Great 11 mile hike with awesome views.

Great rock formations and pretty overlooks. Can be a bit difficult to follow given all the trails the make up this loop

Beauty, some rough terrain, and exciting rock formations.