At Thousands of Years Old, Some Of The Oldest Trees In The World Are Found In Tennessee
The beauty of an old-growth forest is a beauty all its own, a magical step back in time that’s only available to the few most driven to find it. The Albright Grove in Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known as one of the most beautiful enclaves of old-growth trees, and it is accessible only by a few mile hike into the wilderness. If you’re looking to see the world as it once was, preserved for hundreds and thousands of years, home to undisturbed plant life and wildlife in tandem, then you may want to set your compass to Tennessee’s Albright Grove.
An old-growth forest is known also as a primeval forest, a primary forest, and a virgin forest, and refers to a forest that has become age-old without a large amount of human intervention. You will find these stunning time capsules throughout the United States, but here in Tennessee, the most common instances of old-growth are found in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Albright Grove, accessible only by hike, takes roughly an hour to reach in the grand hiking scheme of things. The grove is home to some of the oldest trees in the park, as well as some of the tallest. The best way to reach Albright Grove is by way of the Maddron Bald Trail.
The hike from Maddron Bald Trail to Albright Grove boasts an impressive elevation gain of over 1,000 feet, and the loop route is 6.6 miles in its entirety. The trail is considered moderate in difficulty, so you should plan a little over three hours for completion.
This old-growth forest has been largely undisturbed by contemporary influence, so expect a quiet walk through an active natural area. You will come across happy clusters of wildlife and lush plant life. The ecosystem along the trail has been left to itself, and it’s a beautiful thing to see nature thriving.
Make sure you keep an eye out for photo opportunities! The hollowed-out tree along the road is a popular sight...
...as is the bridge across the water! Make sure you bring the right footwear and watch your step to be safe.
Albright Grove is tucked away and beautifully maintained by Mother Earth herself. Make sure you honor the area and leave it as you found it, friends. This is one natural enclave that's worthy of great protection.
What a beautiful place to visit! Have you been to an old-growth forest? Will you be hiking to Albright Grove?
This is one of those places that just sticks with you long after you leave. You can learn more about the magic of an old-growth forest here. Happy hiking, Tennessee!
Address: Albright Grove, Tennessee 37722, USA
