John C. Wilson Memorial Park

John C. Wilson Memorial Park is a public recreational area located in Chattanooga, Tennessee, at the base of Lookout Mountain. Established in 2006, the park replaced a former water park site that was at risk of becoming a junk car lot. It now serves as a gateway to the Lookout Mountain trail system and offers visitors a chance to enjoy nature within the city limits.

The park spans approximately 50 acres and features a network of hiking and biking trails. These trails connect to the larger Guild-Hardy Trail, which leads up Lookout Mountain. In total, there are about 3 miles of trails within the park itself, with an additional 5 miles along the Guild-Hardy Trail. The trails vary in difficulty, with some being easy to moderate, making them accessible to a range of visitors.

John C. Wilson Memorial Park is known for its natural beauty, offering scenic views of the Tennessee River and Chattanooga. The park's landscape includes spring wildflowers, majestic oak trees, and fragrant sassafras, providing a diverse ecosystem for local wildlife. It's not uncommon for visitors to spot migratory birds, including hawks and falcons, using the area as a resting spot.

The park also serves an educational purpose, being utilized in environmental education programs. These programs work with inner-city youth, teaching them about leadership skills and land conservation practices. This aspect of the park highlights its role not just as a recreational space, but as a community resource for learning and environmental stewardship.

Managed by the Lookout Mountain Conservancy, the park is open from dawn to dusk and adheres to Leave No Trace principles. Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment and historical features within the park, including old foundations and stone walls that predate the Civil War.