Chestnut Mountain Loop

Dogs Unknown

Chestnut Mountain Loop is the heart of the Tanasi trail network, with most trails connecting to it in some way or another. The loop starts with a short section before splitting to become a loop.

To reach the trail, begin at the Ocoee Whitewater Center and hike Bear Paw Loop. About 0.7 miles after starting Bear Paw Loop, if hiking counter-clockwise (0.3 miles if clockwise), you'll reach the start of Chestnut Mountain Loop Trail.

Head west on the trail for 0.2 miles to where the actual loop section of the trail starts. To follow it as mapped here, turn right and begin the long loop.

After 2.9 miles, you'll pass the entrance to Thunder Rock Express trail on your right. Stay left to continue Chestnut Mountain Loop. After another mile or so, you'll pass the entrance to West Fork trail on your right. Stay left to continue.

You'll eventually reach the start of Quartz Loop and then 1330 Bypass trail. Continue right to the next intersection. In short order, you'll pass the entrance to River View Loop on your right (stay left) and 1330 Bypass on your left (stay right). You'll soon pass the second entrance to River View Loop on your right, so stay left to continue back to the start of the main loop and back down to Bear Paw Loop to return to the Ocoee Whitewater Center.

Many sections of this large loop are used in the Black Bear Rampage 40 mile race.