What we refer to as Raccoon Mountain is actually the southern end of a crescent shape mountain which lies directly to the west of Chattanooga. The bulk of the southern portion of the mountain is controlled by the Tennessee Valey Authority within the Raccoon Mountain Pumped Storage Facility. TVA's website explains how pumped storage works.
The plant operates like a large storage battery. During periods of low demand, water is pumped from Nickajack Reservoir at the base of the mountain to the man-made reservoir at the top. It takes 28 hours to fill the upper reservoir. When demand is high, water is released via a tunnel drilled through the center of the mountain. The force of this falling water powers the generators in the mountain's underground power plant.
The bulk of the land around Raccoon Mountain is a state-designated Wildlife Observation Area and is not involved in power production. Nearly 800 acres of the reservation on the mountain slopes adjacent to the Tennessee River are part of an agreement between TVA and the Tennessee River Gorge Trust, which ensures the land will be forever managed for its wilderness potential and open space.
Since its acquisition as a TVA facility, this land has become a prime wildlife habitat as well as a unique recreational preserve with many trails and picnic areas. The hiking and biking trails are especially fine with numerous overlooks and there are plenty of other opportunities for outdoor activities in a safe environment.
Raccoon Mountain is home to whitetail deer, woodchucks, gray foxes, and of course, raccoons. The most compelling wildlife attraction of the area is a large population of bald eagles, which can be sighted from the overlooks as they hunt in the woods and waters.
This destination, only 20 minutes from downtown Chattanooga, is definitely worth a visit! Be sure to check out the visitor's center for maps, history, and beautiful views of the Tennessee River Gorge.
Reprinted from the Canyon Watcher, a publication of the Tennessee River Gorge Trust.