Here Are 6 Of The Most Refreshing Waterfront Trails You Can Take In Tennessee

Something is alluring and peaceful about water. Maybe it’s the way the sunlight hits it and creates sparkling shimmers all throughout the ripples in the water. It could also have something to do with the tranquil sounds of the water gently lapping on the shore or a trickling stream; either way, we love water when we find it. The Volunteer State might not have any ocean access, but we have some of the best lakes and rivers in the country. So we wanted to highlight what we think are the top six best waterfront hikes in Tennessee.

Larry Newsom/ Alltrails

This peaceful trail takes you on a wonderful walk around O’Neal Lake in the Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge. While walking around the lake, make sure to keep your eyes open because lots of birds tend to visit the refuge, like the mighty bald eagle. This is a lesser-known trail, so you might have it all to yourself; we think this makes it perfect for a peaceful stroll around the lake.

O'Neal Lake, Tennessee 37110, USA

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The Lakes of Bowie Loop Trail is another place where you can find some solitude. Sandy beaches on the shore of the lake make for a great picnic spot, and the calming quiet is reason enough to include it on this list. The best times to go are during the spring when the trees start to blossom or during the fall when the leaves change. Both of those seasons give way to a stunning display of color as you stroll along the trail.

Bowie Nature Park, 7211 Bowie Lake Rd, Fairview, TN 37062, USA

Solamen Silva/ Alltrails

This trail might only be a .7-mile loop, but it packs quite a punch. The Ghost River Mineral Slough Boardwalk takes you along a boardwalk on a section of the Wolf River. The title Ghost River was given to this section of the Wolf River because it appears as though the current disappears and the water seems completely still. This odd effect allows for a peaceful walk while taking in the views of the unique Cypress trees. This boardwalk trail is a stunning trip and well worth it for anyone looking for a peaceful place to walk.

Mineral Slough Boardwalk, Ghost River State Natural Area, Beasley Dr, Moscow, TN 38057, USA

Charles Ebright/ Alltrails

Ridge Crest is rated as a moderate trail and has 364 feet of elevation gain, and that might not seem peaceful to everyone, but the reward at the end is well worth it. Hike through the woods until you arrive at the edge of the Holston River. Then you can climb on the rocks or just pick a flat one and enjoy the view. There is nothing better than sitting at the edge of the water and relaxing.

Panther Creek State Park, 2010 Panther Creek Park Rd, Morristown, TN 37814, USA

Emily Gosselin/ Alltrails

The Gatlinburg Trail takes you from the heart of downtown Gatlinburg all the way to the Sugarlands Visitor Center, through the woods, and alongside the Little Pigeon River. The Great Smoky Mountains are one of the most spectacular places in our state, and taking this trail gives you yet another way to enjoy our national park. The terrain is relatively flat and there are plenty of places to just stop and witness those classic Smoky Mountain views of mossy-covered rocks with churning water moving with the current. This is also one of only two trails where you are allowed to take dogs on in the Smokies.

Gatlinburg Trail, Gatlinburg, TN, USA

Courtesy of Sarah Dodge

This lake is a pristine location for one of the most gorgeous lakes in Tennessee. Nestled within the mountains, this trail has no shortage of views. Everywhere you look, you can see lush green mountains and untouched wilderness surrounding the glistening water. There are a few ways to enjoy the shoreline, and many people will just opt to go to the sandy beach area, but we know a little local secret. There is a very short trail near the picnic area where you can hike down to another sandy shoreline. This spot is covered with a canopy of trees, allowing for wonderful shade and a great way to enjoy Watauga Lake. Check out this hidden location by watching this Adventuring in the Moment video:

Watauga Lake, Tennessee, USA

There are so many wonderful waterfront trails in our state we almost want to pick them all. We do think these are some of the best waterfront hikes in Tennessee, and we hope this inspires you to get out near the water in our landlocked state. What trails are your favorite? Let us know what your top waterfront trails are in the comments.