Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park invites the public to take part in a free, ninety minute, historical hike at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 11, 2014. Participants are encouraged to take Moccasin Bend Road toward the Moccasin Bend Mental Health Institute and follow the Special Event signs directing you to the parking area.
In the fall of 1863, Confederate soldiers, like numerous visitors atop Lookout Mountain today, peered off the rocky slopes, down into the city of Chattanooga and never knew what lurked in the forest below, just beyond the river. Somewhat hidden on the ridge of Moccasin Bend, were Union artillery batteries ready and waiting to pounce upon troops and supplies moving along the slopes of the imposing mountain. As one Confederate put it, the "Moccasin battery, at the base of Lookout Mountain, was busy with its 'thunder tongues,' and … the shelling was, at times, incessant." Join us on a hike to those Union artillery positions on Moccasin Bend to learn about the lives of those soldiers who were looking up toward the great mountain, defending the city against their Confederate foes.
As a reminder, comfortable, supportive footwear, appropriate clothing for the weather, and water are recommended for this program.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
