Chattanooga, TN, October 3, 2025
News Summary
SORBA Chattanooga, in partnership with the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, has launched a trail user survey to evaluate the local trails’ usage, value, and economic impact. The survey invites all trail users, including hikers, bikers, and climbers, to provide feedback that will assist in long-term planning and funding advocacy for trail development. Scheduled for release in Fall 2026, the findings aim to highlight the importance of trails as community infrastructure and support sustainable investment in over 170 miles of multi-use trails in the region.
Chattanooga Launches Trail User Survey to Assess Local Trail Impact and Value
SORBA Chattanooga, in cooperation with the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC), has initiated a comprehensive trail user survey aimed at understanding the usage, value, and economic impact of local trails in the greater Chattanooga region. The survey is now available for participation and is open to all trail users, including hikers, runners, bikers, climbers, and walkers, as well as non-trail users.
The primary objective of the survey is to gather community feedback that will aid in long-term planning, enhance user experiences, and support future funding advocacy for trail development. This effort will also contribute to a full economic impact report specifically focusing on mountain biking in Hamilton County and nearby areas, which is scheduled for release in Fall 2026.
This study is designed to quantify how trails contribute to Chattanooga’s outdoor economy, tourism, and overall quality of life, emphasizing their importance as essential community infrastructure. The data collected from the survey will provide crucial insights to advocate for sustainable investment in maintaining more than 170 miles of multi-use trails within the region.
Sunshine Loveless, Executive Director of SORBA Chattanooga, noted the survey’s importance in capturing the complete story of trails’ value to the community. The findings will not only influence local planning but also assist in supporting grant applications, municipal funding proposals, and collaborations with land managers.
Dr. Ryan Zwart, Assistant Professor of Sport, Outdoor Recreation, and Tourism Management at UTC, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership between SORBA Chattanooga and UTC, highlighting its role in connecting research with community efforts.
The survey takes approximately 10 minutes to complete, and every response is considered essential for fortifying the case for ongoing investment in Chattanooga’s trail network. In an effort to enhance the accessibility and maintenance of the trail systems, the survey also aims to reflect the diverse needs of the outdoor community.
Residents and trail enthusiasts are strongly encouraged to participate in the survey, which can be accessed at www.sorbachattanooga.org/trail-survey.
Background Context
Chattanooga has been recognized as a National Park City, reinforcing its commitment to outdoor recreation and the preservation of natural spaces. Through data collection and analysis, the city aims to effectively manage its trails and promote their economic and social benefits to the community.
This initiative marks a significant step toward understanding and developing the outdoor spaces that are increasingly vital to the lifestyle and well-being of Chattanoogans.
Key Features of the Trail User Survey
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Target Audience | All trail users including hikers, bikers, runners, climbers, walkers, and non-trail users. |
| Purpose | To assess trail usage, community value, and economic impacts. |
| Completion Time | Approximately 10 minutes. |
| Findings Release | Scheduled for Fall 2026. |
| Investment Advocacy | Support for grants, funding, and partnerships with land managers. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the trail user survey?
The purpose of the survey is to understand how local trails are used, their value to the community, and their broader economic impact.
Who can participate in the survey?
The survey is open to all trail users, including hikers, runners, bikers, climbers, and walkers, as well as non-trail users.
How long does it take to complete the survey?
The survey takes approximately 10 minutes to complete.
When will the findings from the survey be released?
Survey responses will contribute to a full economic impact report on mountain biking in Hamilton and surrounding counties, which is scheduled for release in Fall 2026.
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Additional Resources
- Chattanooga Pulse
- Chattanoogan
- Times Free Press
- NKY Tribune
- Bike Magazine
- Wikipedia: Trail
- Google Search: Chattanooga trail survey
- Google Scholar: mountain biking economic impact
- Encyclopedia Britannica: outdoor recreation
- Google News: Chattanooga trails
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
