The section of I-24 known, tautologically, as Monteagle Mountain consists of a 12-to-13-mile-long (19 to 21 km) segment in Grundy and Marion counties that includes both the eastern and western escarpment of the Cumberland Plateau.
On the eastern descent of the plateau, the eastbound lanes contain a 6% grade over a length of about 4.1 miles (6.6 km) where the elevation drops 1,161 feet (354 m), and is particularly hazardous to truckers.
This segment also features off-ramp approach-style lane dividers, in order to slow both motorists and truckers.
East of the grade, the route passes through a narrow valley alongside Battle Creek, with slight banked curves as it enters Kimball and South Pittsburg.
West of the grade, the route enters the relatively flat terrain of the Eastern Highland Rim, passing through Pelham.
In fact, in honor of those birds, for many years a golden eagle sat in the park in Monteagle until it was stolen as a school prank.
[4] After the Cherokee were removed, the area was renamed "Moffit's Station" in May 1870 by John Moffat, a native of Glasgow, Scotland, with his wife and children.
[5] Beginning in April 1985, the eastbound lanes of I-24 on the eastern downgrade of Monteagle Mountain were extensively straightened and rebuilt, and the grades reduced.
[5] This work was completed in 1989, and the lanes were reopened on July 11 of that year in a ceremony officiated by then-governor Ned McWherter.