The Tennessee River Gorge, 27,000 acres of land carved through the Cumberland Mountains by 26 miles of the Tennessee River, is one of the most unique natural treasures in the Southeast. It is the only large river canyon bordering a mid-size city and is the fourth largest river canyon east of the Mississippi.

The scenic terrain of the Tennessee River Gorge creates a unique diversity of land forms. The land provides habitats for more than a thousand varieties of plants, ferns, trees, grasses and flowers as well as a rich wildlife population. Many of these are rare or endangered species such as the Mountain Skullcap and birds like the Osprey and Bald Eagle. Dozens of archaeological sites bear evidence of man's presence in the Gorge for at least 10,000 years.

Under the direction of a volunteer board and the support of a professional staff, the Tennessee River Gorge Trust, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded in 1981, incorporated in 1986 protects the ecological diversity, scenic beauty and historic past of the nationally significant river canyon.

Through the cooperation of landowners and the generosity of the local community, the Trust has protected 16,364 of the 27,000 acres of land in the Gorge and the surrounding area. Lands have been protected by means of direct purchases, donations and conservation easements. Still, much remains to be done.

The Trust strives to inform our community; especially our young people of the need to preserve our few remaining natural lands. The future of the Gorge, its history and its natural beauty will continue if we all understand its significance.

The Trust develops educational and research programs with local schools to provide access to the Gorge. Through educational initiatives and cooperation with other organizations, both children and adults are provided valuable opportunities to learn from and enjoy the land. Pot Point, considered the crown jewel of the Gorge, is home to Chattanooga's first scientific field station. This facility, which accommodates both researchers and school groups, promotes the Trust's commitment to science and education.

The Trust has established a stewardship program to care for the lands in the Gorge. Stewardship involves ongoing land maintenance, ecological restoration, promotion of sustainable land use, and continuous biological inventorying.

A contribution to the Trust helps to protect the scenery, wildlife and open lands of the Grand Canyon of Tennessee.  Your membership support is critical to the success of the Trust.  Please show your commitment to the Gorge by joining other members in the preservation of these lands.