7 Glorious Waterfront Trails In Tennessee To Take On A Summer Day
One of the best parts of living in Tennessee is the outdoor opportunities found all over the state. The rivers are beautiful and clean for swimming, the reservoirs are perfect for boating, and the mountains are great for folks looking to challenge their hike with a good incline. If you’re seeking a bit of watery hiking fun, then you may want to set your sights on a waterfront trail. We’ve found seven great waterfront trails in Tennessee that are sure to challenge your fitness and provide a few stunning views you won’t want to miss. How many have you checked off your bucket list?
Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail Parking, Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail, Ashland City, TN 37015, USA
The Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail is a 13.3-mile trail that takes hikers out and back in Ashland City, Tennessee. You can bring your dog as long as it is kept on a leash, and the kid-friendly route only gains 190 feet in elevation. You will hike along the Cumberland River for part of the trail, and there are also sections that will take you through more heavily wooded areas. It's a truly magical sight when the wildflowers are blooming!
Triple Falls Parking Lot, 264-298 Shelton Hollow Ln, Caryville, TN 37714, USA
Triple Falls Trail on Bruce Creek is known for its incredible views near Caryville, Tennessee, but the 2-mile out-and-back route is also great for hiking during the summertime. It is dog-friendly and features wildflowers during the springtime, local wildlife throughout the year, and a gushing waterfall. You will gain quite a bit of elevation, but the views at the top are incredible, and you're encouraged onward by the stunning falls along the way.
Honey Creek Overlook, Honey Creek Trailhead Overlook, Oneida, TN 37841, USA
Honey Creek Loop Trail is known to be one of the most difficult trails in the Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area, but it is also the most rewarding. The 4.2-mile loop trail is located near Rugby, Tennessee, and you will gain almost 800 feet in elevation during the course of your hike. The trail is considered a fairly technical trail, so make sure you have some experience in the backwoods and you bring a camera to document your trip. The natural beauty of the area is largely undisturbed, allowing for a true day of respite in the woods.
Gatlinburg Trail Trailhead, 916 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA
Gatlinburg Trail is just under four miles in its entirety, but the waterfront route is perfect for kids, dogs, and everything from hiking to trail running. The route is a classic out-and-back structure and is open throughout the year. Expect a gravel trail that begins at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Visitor Center and stretches into Gatlinburg.
Cucumber Gap Trail & Little River Trail, Tennessee 37738, USA
The Cucumber Gap and Little River Loop Trail is 5.4 miles, and the fairly challenging route takes a few hours to complete in its entirety. Visitors rave about the chance to horseback ride along the waterfront, and though dogs aren't allowed on the trail it is partially paved and family-friendly. If you're a trail runner, look no further! You can traverse alongside a gurgling stream and complete a solid loop with almost 800 feet of elevation gain.
Edward's Point Trailhead, 2722 Edwards Point Rd, Signal Mountain, TN 37377, USA
Edward's Point Trail is located near Signal Mountain, Tennessee, and though the trail is fairly challenging it is 3.8 miles of pure beauty in Prentice Cooper State Forest. You can hike throughout the year, but during the summertime, you will have clear views of the Tennessee Gorge. Dogs are permitted on a leash, and make sure you wear shoes appropriate for the rocky terrain.
Twin Falls, Rock Island, TN 38581, USA
You will find Twin Falls and Downstream Trail in Rock Island State Park, and the kid-friendly hike is a mere 1.6 miles in length. You will gain about 223 feet in elevation, but this out-and-back trail is great for dogs on a leash and folks looking to enjoy the beauty of a waterfront hike. Visitors warn others about a steep incline, so make sure you're prepared!
What a fun list! Make sure you take note, friends, and hike these great waterfront hiking trails in Tennesee the next time you’re seeking a little outdoor adventure in the summertime. Pack a snack, bring your water, and maybe prepare to get wet? If you dare!
Continue to explore the great state of Tennessee and take part in some of its best outdoor activities!
Address: Tennessee, USA
Address: Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail Parking, Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail, Ashland City, TN 37015, USA
Address: Honey Creek Overlook, Honey Creek Trailhead Overlook, Oneida, TN 37841, USA
Address: Gatlinburg Trail Trailhead, 916 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA
Address: Cucumber Gap Trail & Little River Trail, Tennessee 37738, USA
Address: Edward's Point Trailhead, 2722 Edwards Point Rd, Signal Mountain, TN 37377, USA
Address: Twin Falls, Rock Island, TN 38581, USA
Address: Triple Falls Parking Lot, 264-298 Shelton Hollow Ln, Caryville, TN 37714, USA
