The One Park In Tennessee With Swimming Holes, Arches, Camping, And Trails Truly Has It All
By Chris Dodge|Published November 14, 2022
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Chris Dodge
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My name is Chris Dodge and I live right here in the great state of Tennessee. My family and I are full adventurers filled with passion to see the amazing things our state has to offer. We are avid hikers and have explored many different places in Tennessee and beyond but we are always thankful to be living in such a glorious state.
Big South Fork in Tennessee is a massive 125,000-acre natural recreation area filled with beauty and fun for any outdoor enthusiast. From stunning overlooks to cooling swimming holes, this park seems to have it all. There are unique geological features like arches and a cave, so pack your sleeping bags because you will want to spend a whole weekend exploring this wonderful park.
When you want to find a spot to cool down on a hot summer day or after a long hike, then the little-known Gentleman's Swimming Hole is the place for you.
With only a short .7-mile hike down to the water, this trail is accessible and fun. The rock formations in the area make it more than just a walk in the woods, and chances are you could very well have the whole area to yourself.
Big South Fork is known for interesting rock formations, and there is one popular trail that makes that abundantly clear.
The Twin Arches Loop Trail will lead you to two arches as well as amazing views of the massive rock walls. The trail will take you a little over 5 miles to complete and is rated as moderate, with just under 800 feet of elevation gain. The south arch is 135 feet long, and the highest point is 103 feet tall. The northern arch is a little bit smaller but just as impressive. You can even hike to the top of the arches for a fantastic view.
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Another adventurous place in the recreation area is known as Devil’s Cave.
There is no official trail leading to it, but this is one exciting find within Big South Fork. This crevice is less of a cave and more of a slot canyon, but well worth exploring.
We recommend Slave Falls when you are exploring the area. You can get to the falls from the Slave Falls Loop Trail which is a 4.2-mile hike with 377 feet of elevation gain, making this trail rated as easy. Along the way, you can see the 70-foot-tall Slave Falls and even see Needle Arch Overlook.
(Ed. note: According to local lore, the name Slave Falls came from the freedom-seeking enslaved people who frequently hid in the region on their way to safety.)
If you want a more challenging hike, take on the Big Ridge.
This hike is a grueling 13.3-mile loop with 1,430 feet of elevation gain making this hike rated as hard. It may be difficult, but you will be treated to some fantastic views as you travel.
With so much to do at Big South Fork, it would be worth staying the night so you can continue your journey the next day.
There are several camping places in the recreation area to pitch a tent or bring a camper. Make sure to check the Big South Fork site for all of the campgrounds and make the most of your adventure in this exquisite natural recreation area.
Exploring Big South In Tennessee is such a wonderful way to spend the weekend. This recreation area is so big that it is shared with our northern neighbors, Kentucky. There are several great places to explore no matter what side of the border you are on. For more information, please visit the Big South Fork National Park Services page.
