Follow This Abandoned Railroad Trail For One Of The Most Unique Hikes In Tennessee

There are plenty of hiking trails in Tennessee, but not many follow a historic route through the state’s mountainous region. The Eureka Trail is a fairly remote rail trail in Tennessee that winds its way through the woods and keeps locals well-invested in the local beauty of the town of Athens. Fall in love with the beauty of the region and walk along a little bit of history as you traverse the beauty of a once-operational railway.

Josh Bowman - AllTrails

The Eureka Rail Trail, also known simply as the Eureka Trail, is located in the town of Athens in McMinn County. The gravel trail meanders through the surrounding forests and provides recreational opportunities to cyclists, hikers, runners, and horseback riders. Yes, you can horseback ride on the trail!

Dana English - AllTrails

Unlike other hiking trails in Tennessee, the Eureka Trail follows the original pathway of a railroad bed. Long before it was a trail the route fostered local industry, but it was later abandoned and reworked as a recreational path. Traverse anywhere from five to seven miles along the route for a stunning mountain experience.

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Scott Cavanaugh/AllTrails

Visitors report beautiful natural scenes, wildflowers in the springtime, and large, shady trees. The trail is completely flat, so don't expect to be hiking through the height of the mountains, but the gravel pathway does provide a barrier to full accessibility.

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Linette K - AllTrails

This rail trail in Tennessee is heaven on earth for bird watchers, and if you maintain a gentle presence along your walk you may just spot local wildlife. Dogs are allowed on the trail but must be kept on a leash at all times.

Ella Wilson - GoogleMaps

Can you just imagine the chugging of a train so many years ago, carrying people and product through the backwoods of Tennesee? There's something magical about it, the idea of walking an old route.

Eddie Hyde - AllTrails

Will you be making your way down the Eureka Rail Trail sometime soon? This year-round trail is friendly and fine for the entire family, and the area's natural beauty speaks for itself.

Have you ever hiked along the Eureka Rail Trail? Will you be cycling it sometime soon? There’s nothing better than a day out and about in Tennessee’s natural beauty, and the Eureka Rail Trail is a prime spot for the entire family.

If you’re looking to indulge your sweet tooth after exploring the trail, check out this beloved ice cream shop in Athens, Tennessee.