5 Picture-Perfect Nature Trails in Tennessee for a Spring Hike

The days are getting longer, the flowers are blooming, and it’s time to start planning your spring hikes in Tennessee. Spring is my favorite time of year to spend time outdoors, especially here in Tennessee! From epic waterfalls to endless wildflowers, here are some of the best nature trails in Tennessee that are perfect for spring. 

5 Picture-Perfect Nature Trails in Tennessee for a Spring Hike

Abrams Falls Trail

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is overflowing with excellent hiking trails that are worthy of your time. Waterfalls and springtime just go together so well; it would be a disservice not to include at least one on this list! The Abrams Falls Trail is a moderately difficult hiking trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The five-mile out-and-back trail leads you to one of the most popular waterfalls in Tennessee: Abrams Falls. Witness its epic 25-foot drop for yourself!

Radnor Lake Trail

There are five miles of hiking trails at Radnor Lake State Park in Nashville, and the Lake Trail is one of my favorites. The three-mile loop takes you along the perimeter of the lake and offers plenty of wildlife sightings. The lake is a known home for bald eagles, as well as turkeys, herons, turtles, and more. This is a pet-free trail, so leave the pup at home for this one. 

Porters Creek Trail

The Porters Creek Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has a little bit of everything all rolled into one seven-mile trail. You’ll cross over the creek, pass by an old cemetery, a historic farm site, and a waterfall. All the while, your path will be lined with endless wildflowers! If you’re up for a little bit of a longer trail, this is easily one of the best spring hikes in Tennessee.

Gregory Ridge Trail

They say the best things in life are worth the effort, and that’s certainly true with the 11-mile Gregory Ridge Trail. As you make your way to Gregory Bald, you’ll gain about 3,000 feet of elevation. It’s certainly not one of the easiest trails, but you will be rewarded when you reach the viewpoint. 

Alum Cave Trail

The Alum Cave Trail is one of the most popular trails within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The trail to Peregrine Peak is a 4.5-mile adventure that grows more beautiful with every step. Visit early in the morning to escape the crowds; it's worth it. 

When to Visit for Peak Scenery in Tennessee

April and May are the best times to go on spring hikes in Tennessee. That old phrase April showers bring May flowers is true! Timing is key to experiencing those beautiful blooms, so I’d start planning for the end of April into May. 

While you’re planning your springtime adventures, be sure to pay attention to the weather. This is the time of year when those surprise showers take hold of an afternoon, and no one wants to hike a mile on a muddy trail in the pouring rain. Always check trail conditions and weather forecasts before setting off on one of the many scenic trails in Tennessee.

Hiking is just one of many amazing things to do in Tennessee in the springtime. Consider visiting one of the many botanical gardens in the state to fully immerse yourself in springtime flowers.