10 Of The Greatest Hiking Trails On Earth Are Right Here In Tennessee
There’s nothing more beautiful or magnificent than a day spent amongst nature. Tennessee is known for its incredible natural vistas, from the Cumberland Plateau to the plains of the west, and of course the ever-popular ramblings of the Great Smoky Mountains. These ten hiking trails offer a great day out and about in the wilderness, each one more beautiful and jaw-dropping than the last. If you haven’t crisscrossed the backcountry of Tennessee just yet, you may have a bit of work to do…but it will be worth it when you can claim that you’ve hiked the best hiking trails in Tennessee.
1. Laurel Falls Trail - Great Smoky Mountains National Park
At only 2.3 miles, Laurel Falls Trail is a favorite for families with little ones. Kid-friendly with a very easy out and back structure, you'll wander a paved trail all the way to the falls. Make sure to bring your camera, and please note that parking is limited at the trailhead. This one is popular!
2. Alum Cave Trail - Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Most folks only wander a section of the Alum Cave Trail, mainly because the entirety of the out and back route comes in at 10.7 miles. It's considered a difficult trail, especially since you'll be gaining over 3,000 feet in elevation over the course of the entire route. We'd recommend you visit between the months of March and November for the best personal experience.
3. Sewanee Perimeter Trail - South Cumberland State Park
The entirety of the Sewanee Perimeter Trail is a whopping 18 miles, but the moderately rated route is perfect for those seeking a gorgeous view with Fido by their side. It's a popular spot for students and hikers alike, and you may even spot the spare trail runner.
This Baxter, Tennessee based trail is 1.1 miles and features an out and back route that's rated as a moderate hike. The waterfall is truly a feat of nature, rewarding even the most inexperienced of hikers with a true Tennessee gem.
One of the most difficult hikes on our list, this two mile hike is actually a hidden gem, ascending almost completely straight up Starr Mountain. At the peak of the hike, you'll be rewarded with incredible views of the Hiwassee River below. The summit is well worth the huffing and puffing up the mountain!
6. Abrams Falls Trail - Great Smoky Mountains National Park
At almost five miles, the moderate Abrams Falls Trail is most popular amongst dedicated hikers. You can hike the route year-round, though we would recommend it in the springtime. The gushing waterfall and bird watching opportunities make this spot a true Tennessee gem.
7. Honey Creek Loop - Big South Fork National Area
If we had to pick a favorite trail amongst locals, Honey Creek Loop would be it. Recommended only for the most experienced hiker, the five-mile trek through the Big South Fork National Park gains 898 feet. It can get a bit rocky and muddy, so make sure you're ready to adventure.
This sweet and pretty little one-mile hike is heavily trafficked, mainly because it's both dog and kid friendly. Cummins Falls waits for you at the end of your adventure, and the pool at its base is a popular swimming hole in the summertime.
9. Ozone Falls Trail - Cumberland Mountain State Park
Welcome to the tiniest loop trail on our list! At only a quarter of a mile, the hike to Ozone Falls is short but steep. Although the trail might be short, the park itself is popular amongst campers and outdoorsfolk alike. It's a real experience, to spend the night on one of the primitive campgrounds with the beauty of the state surrounding you.
10. Gorge Overlook & Woodland Trails - Fall Creek Falls State Park
At just under three miles, this moderate trail is great for older kids and folks looking to take their dog (on a leash!) out into the wilderness. The loop features a gorgeous view of Fall Creek Falls, one of the most recognizable spots in the state.
Make sure to leave your thoughts on these trails in the comments! Did we find your favorite? Perhaps we missed a key spot you adore? Leave your ideas and suggestions below, fellow Tennesseans.
Address: Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, 4564 Leatherwood Rd, Oneida, TN 37841, USA
Address: Cummins Falls, Tennessee 38501, USA
Address: Ozone Falls, Tennessee 37854, USA
Address: Fall Creek Falls State Park, 2009 Village Camp Rd, Spencer, TN 38585, USA
Address: Laurel Falls Trail, Sevierville, TN 37862, USA
Address: Alum Cave Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
best hiking trails in Tennessee
May 10, 2020
Jackie Ann
Are there any other places I should go hiking in Tennessee?
Tennessee is chock-full of incredible hiking opportunities that are ideal for the outdoor explorer. History lovers will enjoy a visit to Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park which covers more than 1,200 acres and has several paved trails that are ideal for a casual hike while viewing the Native American mounds. For those looking for a challenge, the trail at Virgin Falls State Natural Area is picture-perfect. The 8-mile trail features multiple waterfalls, elevation changes, and beautiful wildflowers peppered along the trail.
What are the best outdoor adventures in Tennessee?
No matter what time of year you visit Tennessee, you can count on incredible outdoor adventures. In the warmer months, kayaking down the Tennessee River is an absolute must. Adrenaline junkies will have a blast hang gliding from Lookout Mountain just outside of Chattanooga, but if you prefer your thrills to be closer to the ground, you can always go whitewater rafting down the Ocoee River and experience the rush of traversing Class V rapids.
What are the most remote places in Tennessee?
The Volunteer State has countless attractions that should be on everyone’s bucket list. From highly populated areas to the most remote destinations in the state, there are endless adventures to be had in Tennessee. When you’re looking to get away from it all and explore some of the less-traveled areas of Tennessee, you’ve got plenty of options. Lover’s leap outside of Knoxville offers a rare panoramic view of multiple states including Georgia, and Alabama. On a clear day, you may also be able to see Kentucky and Virginia, as well as the Smoky Mountains in North Carolina. Watauga Lake in Butler, Tennessee is another secluded gem tucked away in the Appalachian Mountains and features beautiful water that’s ideal for kayaking and swimming surrounded by a beautiful mountain backdrop.
Address: Perimeter Trail, Sewanee, TN, USA
Address: Burgess Falls, Tennessee 38544, USA
Address: Starr Mountain Trail 120, Tennessee, USA
Address: Abrams Falls Trail, Tennessee, USA
Address: Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, 4564 Leatherwood Rd, Oneida, TN 37841, USA
Address: Cummins Falls, Tennessee 38501, USA
Address: Ozone Falls, Tennessee 37854, USA
Address: Fall Creek Falls State Park, 2009 Village Camp Rd, Spencer, TN 38585, USA
Address: Laurel Falls Trail, Sevierville, TN 37862, USA
Address: Alum Cave Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA
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Meghan Kraft loves to travel the world, but she makes her home right here in Nashville, Tennessee. She holds a degree in English, and has worked in the digital marketing realm with companies such as Apartments.com, USA Today and HarperCollins Publishing.
