July 31st 2026, Chattanooga, TN– Collaboration is at the heart of building world-class trail networks. Recently, mountain bike advocates, industry leaders, and state partners gathered for the Tennessee Cycling & Bike TN Collaborative Meeting in Chattanooga. This recurring gathering brings together local businesses, state agencies, and non-profits to expand cycling opportunities and infrastructure across the state. SORBA was proud to participate alongside our Executive Director, leaders from AMBC (Appalachian Mountain Bike Club), and leadership from SORBA Chattanooga.
The morning began with an inside look at local bicycle manufacturing during a tour of American Bicycle Group’s headquarters. Getting a behind-the-scenes view of where high-performance road, gravel, and mountain bikes, from brands like Litespeed and Obed, are crafted provided a great backdrop to discuss how industry partners and trail advocates can continue championing riding across the region.
The group then gathered at historic Erlanger Park for a lunch meeting focused on growing Tennessee’s outdoor economy and advancing state cycling initiatives. A highlight of the afternoon was a panel discussion on Elevating Tennessee Cycling Events, expertly moderated by Sunshine, Executive Director of SORBA Chattanooga. The conversation focused on how regional events build community, drive outdoor tourism, and generate crucial support for ongoing trail stewardship.
To cap off the day, participants put words into action with a scenic “Mountain to Town” ride. Supported by local shuttles and demo bikes, riders were transported to the top of Lookout Mountain before descending back to Erlanger Park via the historic Guild Trail and Chattanooga Riverwalk—a perfect showcase of Chattanooga’s seamless trail-to-town connectivity.
Gatherings like the Bike TN Collaborative demonstrate what is possible when state agencies, private industry, and advocacy groups pull in the same direction. SORBA remains dedicated to working alongside our local chapters to ensure mountain bikers have a strong, unified voice in shaping the future of outdoor recreation across Tennessee.