This Unexpected Trail in Tennessee Is One of the Best Road Trip Stops You’ve Never Considered

There are few things more American than setting off on a road trip. Getting the best road trip snacks, paired with the perfect playlist and the open road, is a memory-maker for sure. As we turn the corner toward longer days and higher temperatures, you might be beginning to plan your own road trips through Tennessee. If you’re heading to the Smokies, consider one of the best road trip stops in Tennessee— a quick and easy scenic hiking trail. 

Why This Stop Is Worth the Detour

After hours in the car, you’re going to want to stretch your legs. Of course, that’s why many of us use rest stops for, but sometimes you need something a little longer. When you’re ready for a change of scenery and want to really get some steps in, the East Lakeshore Wildcat Point Trail is the perfect road trip stop.

Conveniently located just off of Hwy 411 in Greenback, Tennessee, this 2.5-mile out-and-back hike is just the ticket to getting some movement in your day after a long day of sitting in the car. There’s only 380 feet of elevation gain, and the entire thing can be done in less than 90 minutes. 

Greenback is a tiny little town in Loudon County, and it's one of our favorite small towns in Tennessee. Surrounded by natural beauty, it's one of those towns that just begs you to get out and stretch your legs on a road trip.

There is a parking area right off the road, and the trail is well-marked. As you wind through the forest heading towards the river, take note of any wildflowers or wildlife you might see along the way. If you’re hiking this trail near Greenback in the spring or summer months, your path could be lined with beautiful flowers! If you think this trail is beautiful in the summer, just wait until the fall, when Tennessee’s legendary fall foliage takes the stage. 

The seating area and surrounding trees provide a picture-perfect view of the Little Tennessee River. 

Nearby Road Trip Attractions

From the Fort Loudon State Historic Park to the Sequoyah Birthplace Museum, there are plenty of other road trip stops and side quests to occupy your time. Families with kids of all ages will love a tour with The Lost Sea Adventure, where you can explore the Craighead Caverns and take a boat ride on the largest underground lake in America.

Perhaps one of the most unexpected places in Tennessee is the Greenback Castle, not far from this hiking trail. Built over many years by Flord Banks Jr. from recycled materials, this handmade fortress stands as a Fortress of Faith of sorts. If Mr. Banks is home when you’re visiting, he’s known to pop out and come chat. As far as road trip stops go, this might be one of the best road trip stops in Tennessee.

Check out some of our favorite Tennessee road trip ideas and then try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.