Stringer's Ridge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Stringer's Ridge |
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|---|---|
| Length | Approx. 10 miles (16 km) |
| Location | Chattanooga, TN |
| Designation | Preservation easement |
| Trailheads | Spears Avenue trailhead, Bell Avenue trailhead |
| Use | Hiking, Mountain biking, Trail running |
| Difficulty | Easy to strenuous and technical |
| Season | Year-round |
| Sights | Scenic overlook of Chattanooga, Tennessee |
Stringer's Ridge is a 92-acre wilderness park in North Chattanooga, Tennessee. It's a beautiful natural area that looks out over the North Shore, the Tennessee River, and downtown Chattanooga.
The park has trails with rolling hills and some short, steep parts. Even though the trails are well-kept, you might find some tree roots along the paths. Big oak and hickory trees grow all over the ridge. Groups like the Tennessee River Gorge Trust, the City of Chattanooga, and The Trust for Public Land work together to protect and care for this special place.
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Why is Stringer's Ridge Important?
Stringer's Ridge is made up of three hills. This spot was very important during the American Civil War. It was even the first place where Union soldiers tried to take Chattanooga.
The Civil War and Stringer's Ridge
On June 7, 1862, Union General James S. Negley's soldiers fired cannons at Chattanooga from this ridge. At that time, Confederate soldiers controlled the city. Later, General John T. Wilder's Union army took control of the ridge. The ridge is named after Captain William Stringer.
How Stringer's Ridge Was Saved
Around 2007 and 2008, there was a plan to build 500 apartments on Stringer's Ridge. Many people did not want this to happen. So, The Trust for Public Land started a project to buy 37 acres of land on the ridge. The person who owned the land also agreed to give 55 more acres next to it for free!
In 2009, the Tennessee River Gorge Trust became the group that helps protect all 92 acres of the land. This means they make sure the land stays natural and is not built on.
The City of Chattanooga first became the owner of the original 37 acres. By 2011, the city also owned the other 55 acres. But the Tennessee River Gorge Trust still helps protect all 92 acres of Stringer's Ridge.
What Can You Do at Stringer's Ridge?
Stringer's Ridge has three main trail loops. Together, these trails are about 10 miles long. Some trails are easy and great for a relaxing walk with family. Other trails are more challenging for experienced hikers or bikers.
Park Features
You can find a picnic area on the south side of the park. There are two main entrances, called trailheads. One is on Old Bell Avenue, and the other is on Spears Avenue. A new lookout spot has also been added to the park. From here, you can enjoy amazing views of Chattanooga!
