Sunset Rock — Attraction in Lookout Mountain

Beautiful day for a gorgeous spot! Parking is LIMITED, with 9 or 10 spots. There's a "1 Hour Limit" posted, but we are certain some visitors were there for the afternoon.

The lovely trail down to the overlook area features natural rock "steps" that would prohibit anyone in a wheelchair (and walkers, more than likely), but it's a cool and shady trip down. There are wildflowers, berries and more offering little splashes of color along the way. (Great for pics, not for picking.) Coming back up can be tricky for anyone who is out of shape.

As for the site itself: Beautiful! There are two large flat boulders for photo opps of the view. That is, IF people haven't decided to camp out there for the afternoon and picnic or just chill. We never got a chance to go up to see the view or get a pic. They just sat there chatting -- on both spots! (If you go, please be courteous and let others enjoy the space, too!)

We did, however, find a nice boulder under some trees that offered a pretty view of the river and downtown Chattanooga. It was shady and cool.

Would we go...

The parking area at the top is very small, maybe 6 spaces. The 'hike' down and back is not bad. I am only 2.5 weeks out from having had a major surgery and had no issues except some shortness of breath on way back up. I will say be mindful of shoes because I hike frequently and if it's damp, leaves are on the rocks, or muddy after a rain it could be quite slick. It was an impromptu hike for me so was wear non skid tennis shoes instead of hikers and felt a slight sliding a few times on sandier areas at edges of some of rock/path areas. But overall if no knee, ankle or back issues shouldn't be a problem. If you have to park in one of the other areas bring hydration and plan accordingly for projected sunset time and wear reflective clothing for walk back to car... had numerous people in dark colors walking on road that has no shoulders where all you could see was the soles of the shoes... Safety First People! Memories won't do you any good if you're in...

A great place to enjoy a breathtaking view. Some photographers even use this spot for wedding photos! Sunset is definitely the best time to come.

However, I wouldn’t risk going there in bad weather because there are no guards or safety barriers. I also would not recommend it for families with small children. Honestly, it was terrifying to watch elderly people taking pictures right on the edge of the cliff.

For teens, young adults, and families with older kids, though, the experience is incredible.

If you have more than 1–2 hours, I’d suggest going to Rock City instead — there’s much more to see, and sunset photo sessions there are amazing as well. People even bring hammocks so they don’t have to sit on the ground.

One more tip: locals sometimes offer parking for $10, but they don’t give change — so make sure to have small...