The Ultimate Tennessee Hiking Guide: 12 Hikes for Any Season
Tennessee prides itself on its nature. The state is practically one giant forest, with plenty of hiking trails and outdoor adventures. If you love getting out in the woods, Tennessee is absolutely a place you should visit.
Furthermore, unlike other states, Tennessee has fewer regulations on hiking and backpacking. While each park has its own rules and regulations, you’ll typically have a very easy time using the trails and campsites.
You can’t go more than a few miles without running into a hiking trail in Tennessee. However, some are better than others.
Let’s look at some of the best hiking trails in Tennessee and everything else you need to know to enjoy your trip.
When to Hike in Tennessee
Tennessee is known for its mild weather. However, the summers can get hot and very humid. We recommend going in the fall or spring to enjoy your trip the most.
During these mild months, you can hike without dealing with the humidity, and the state’s trails may be less crowded. Most visitors to the state visit during June and July - at least when it comes to outdoor activities.
October is an extremely popular time, as the fall colors are beautiful in the middle and eastern parts of the state. However, if you visit to see the leaves change, expect to deal with crowds.
All months can be a great time to visit if you pack appropriately. In the summer, the temperature rarely goes higher than in the 90s (though with humidity, that can still be quite hot).
In the winter, the coldest daytime temperatures are usually in the 20s, though most days are much warmer. It isn’t odd to have some days in the 50s or 60s in January and February.
Hiking in Winter
In the winter, Tennessee weather tends to be quite mild. Some days may get below freezing, but many will stay in the 40s and 50s or warmer. Unless you’re in a higher elevation, snow is rare.
Roads are typically accessible, even in the Great Smokey Mountains. You can view snow-capped mountains and frozen waterfalls when the temperature drops below freezing.
Many hikes in middle and eastern Tennessee involve great views, which are best in the winter when the leaves fall from the trees. Higher elevation hikes are awesome in the winter because they tend to be less crowded.
Pack winter hiking gear, especially if you’re scaling Mt. LeConte. The weather in Tennessee is also varied a lot. Bring it even if you don’t think you’ll need winter gear based on the weather forecast.
Keep in mind that some roads in the Great Smokey Mountains are permanently closed during winter. Plan accordingly.
Hiking in Spring
Temperatures and rainfall both increase during the spring months. Often, the temperature variances are large, and flooding may occur in some cases. However, flowers bloom, and views are still available at higher elevations.
Spring makes for some pretty hikes, and the trails tend to be less crowded. March and April tend to be the least crowded months.
Waterfalls tend to flow more during this time due to the increased rainfall. Now is the time for all those waterfall hikes you have on the list.
Flowers tend to bloom first at lower elevations. Therefore, you may want to stick to the lower elevations for the best wildflower hikes.
Hiking in Summer
Summer in Tennessee is possible, but temperatures can get as high as the 80s or 90s, especially at lower elevations. Humidity tends to be significant in the summer. Tennessee is often called a “temperate rainforest” for a reason.
If you visit the Great Smokey Mountains, stick to the higher places in the park to stay cool. June and July tend to be the most crowded, though.
Now is the perfect time for water-related hikes, too. Many hikes lead to lakes and swimming holes, especially on the Cumberland Plateau.
Hiking in Fall
The Great Smokey Mountains see a huge spike in visitors in October when the fall colors peak. However, visitor numbers tend to decrease as you move west away from the mountains.
If you aren’t concerned with seeing the colors change, we recommend going to the Cumberland Plateau or further west.
However, for those that want to enjoy the view, we recommend visiting the Great Smokey Mountains during this time of year. It’s extremely picturesque during the autumn.
Hidden gems may not be as crowded as other areas. Therefore, stick to the less popular paths to avoid crowds.
Where to Hike in Tennessee
Now that you know when to hike, let’s look at some of the best hiking trails in Tennessee.
Many of the most picturesque hikes are in the middle and eastern parts of the state.
1. Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park
Location: Flag Pond, TN
Skill level: All
Length: Various
The Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park covers over 1,200 acres and has at least 15 Native American mounds. It’s one of the few archaeological parks in the state and contains several hiking trails.
All the trails are paved and accessible for those with disabilities. It’s a unique hike that you can’t experience anywhere else.
A museum is located inside the park, too. It’s a replica of a Native American mound. Several other buildings also include exhibit space, theater, and discovery area.
We highly recommend this park and its hiking trails for children and the scholarly-minded. The park has four cabins that you can rent to stay the night.
2. Virgin Falls State Natural Area
Location: Sparta, TN
Skill level: Hard
Length: 8.7 miles (out and back)
For more experienced hikers, we highly recommend the trails at the Virgin Falls State Natural Area. The main trail is more than eight miles, featuring many waterfalls and scenery changes.
You’ll also gain quite a bit in elevation, so this isn’t a hike for the inexperienced. The views once you get up are phenomenal, though.
This natural area is 1,157 acres and centered around the Virgin Falls, formed from an underground stream. The stream comes out of a cave and falls over a 110-foot cliff.
At the bottom, it disappears into another cave. As you might imagine, this view is amazingly unique.
3. Fiery Gizzard Trail
Location: South Cumberland State Park, Tracy City, TN
Skill level: Hard
Length: 11.4 miles (loop)
The Fiery Gizzard Trail is a loop that peaks at Raven’s Point. It’s one of the most popular hiking trails in the country due to its breathtaking views and waterfall.
You’ll see unique rock formations, panoramic overlooks, and luscious wood. However, it’s just over 9 miles long and rated as difficult, so we only recommend it for experienced hikers.
The trail is located within the South Cumberland State Park. When you hit the trail, consider checking out what the park offers.
For instance, there are many backcountry campsites and lakes for swimming. The park is over 30,000 acres - more than enough to make a trip.
4. Point Trail
Location: Lilly Buff, Wartburg, TN
Skill level: Moderate
Length: 3.6 miles (out and back)
Point Trail guides hikers to an overlook at the Obed River along a bluff. The view is completely panoramic, offering many picture opportunities.
The area is home to many different species, making it a nice hike in the warmer months. However, the trail is just over 4 miles and moderately difficult.
For rock climbers, there is a climbing wall at Lilly Bluff. Climbing up allows you to see even better views.
The International Dark-Sky Association also designates the park as great for star viewing. Therefore, the views at night are some of the best in the country. If you want to camp out under the stars, you can’t get much better than this park.
5. Alum Trail
Location: Great Smokey Mountains, TN
Skill level: Hard
Length: 11 miles (out and back)
We couldn’t write an article about hiking in Tennessee without mentioning the Alum Trail to Mt. Leconte. This trail is one of the longest on the list, at over 10 miles.
However, it is also one of the best. It’s challenging, but you’re greeted with panoramic views at the end.
You can even get lodging at the LeConte Lodge, the highest lodge in the eastern United States. This lodge is only accessible by hiking and was originally established as a tent.
However, it is now a quaint cabin that can accommodate about 50 guests a night. Because there aren’t any roads up to the cabin, the park delivers supplies via llama every three days.
Staying at the LeConte Lodge can be expensive, so budget appropriately.
6. T.O. Fuller State Park
Location: Memphis, TN
Skill level: All
Length: Various
Just outside of Memphis, you’ll find this rather popular park. It’s accessible year-round and allows hikers to visit the wetlands and an archeological Native American village.
It has an impressive elevation gain in a short distance, making it popular with runners. It’s a moderately difficult hike, so we only recommend it for experienced hikers.
If you’re staying in or around Memphis, this trail offers a nature escape from the city. However, keep in mind that crime rates in Memphis are extremely high.
It’s been named the most dangerous city in the United States for several years. Therefore, be careful when in and around this park.
7. Cub Creek Lake Trail
Location: Natchez Trace State Park, Wildersville, TN
Skill level: Moderate
Length: 5.5 miles (loop)
Cub Creek Lake Trail is a 5.5-mile loop that takes you on a scenic path around the lake. It’s a perfect hike for kids and dogs, though there can be quite a bit of mud. It’s located in the western part of the state, where hiking trails are a bit more scarce.
The trail is located within the Natchez Trace State Park, which offers many hiking, swimming, and fishing opportunities. There are several trails to take advantage of, but the Cub Creek Lake Trail is one of the most popular.
Much of this trail is unpaved. However, there is a spillway about halfway through the trail, which is a gravel road. You can stay at many campgrounds, including one on the trail itself.
There are also boat rentals and beaches in the area. Many people stay in the park for a few days to take advantage of all it offers.
Don’t forget to pack bug spray if you venture out during the warmer months. Because the trail is so close to the lake, the bugs can be overwhelming.
8. Snooper’s Rock Trail
Location: Prentice Cooper State Park, Chattanooga, TN
Skill level: Moderate
Length: 5.9 miles (out and back)
Just outside of Chattanooga, you’ll find about 35 miles of hiking trails within the Prentice Cooper State Park. The Snooper’s Rock Trail extends 6.2 miles in and out.
The trail includes many unique sights, including a narrow stairway between a set of rocks, impressive rock overhangs, and other interesting rock formations. Small creeks run across the trail, so waterproof shoes can come in handy.
We highly recommend this trail in the wintertime. From my experience, you can enjoy a view of the Tennessee River when the trees are free from leaves. If you go in the warmer months, you can’t see the river until you climb out of the forest.
During hunting season, this park closes on some days. Keep an eye out for these closings before you head to the trail.
9. Grassy Ridge Bald
Location: Pisgah and Cherokee National Forests, Roan Mountain, TN
Skill level: Moderate
Length: 5 miles (out and back)
You’ll find the Roan Highlands along the North Carolina-Tennessee border, where a piece of the Appalachian Trail sits.
This site boasts panoramic views of mountains in both states as you travel across grassy balds 5,000 feet above sea level. This trail is a great option if you ever want to hike a piece of the Appalachian Trail.
This spot is fantastic for picnicking or just taking in the view. Plan to spend a few extra hours on the bald, as you’ll want to enjoy the view. The trip is a full 4.7 miles to and from. There are several grassy balds that you’ll pass on the way.
10. Lookout Mountain Bluff Trail
Location: Chattanooga, TN
Skill level: Moderate
Length: 9.2 miles (out and back)
Lookout Mountain is one of the most popular destinations in Chattanooga.
You’ll see tons of billboards and advertisements across the city for Ruby Falls and Rock City - two of the most popular destinations on Lookout Mountain.
However, the Bluff Trail is a little-known trail on Lookout Mountain that is less touristy than other areas.
The trailhead is about three miles from the Georgia border. If you complete the trail, you’ll walk to another state. The hike itself is relatively flat and easier. However, it does have some pretty awesome views.
11. Sherwood Loop Trail
Location: Sewanee, TN
Skill level: Easy
Length: 2.5 miles (loop)
I’ve talked a lot about harder trials in this article. However, the Sherwood Loop Trail is an easier option that offers some secluded views.
We love it because it isn’t as busy as other trails, and we always love a nice, secluded woodland walk. The loop is only 2.5 miles long and easy enough for even smaller children.
Consider packing your lunch and stopping at the main overlook. You’ll have some nice views of the water from here.
Of course, this trail doesn’t include any of the high-elevation overlooks. However, it does show that you don’t have to climb a mountain to get a good view of Tennessee.
12. Millennium Trail
Location: Edgar Evins State Park, TN
Skill level: Moderate
Length: 2.3 miles (loop)
The Millennium Trail takes hikers straight down to Center Hill Lake, where you can swim and hang out on the rocky beach.
The lake is close to the trailhead, making it accessible for smaller children and older individuals. The grade to get down is pretty steep, however.
Passing the lake, you can climb a hill nearby for some amazing views. The trail continues around the neighboring hills and back down to the lake in a loop.
A longer trail splits off the main loop, leading to an overnight campsite. This trail is a wonderful option for those who enjoy bushcraft camping.
Final Thoughts
Tennessee is home to hundreds of hiking trails, especially in the middle and eastern portions of the state.
The Great Smokey Mountains may be the best-known location for hiking in Tennessee, but many other cities and towns also have many beautiful trails. You don’t have to go very far to find a lake to swim in or a mountain to climb.
As always, planning is vital, and make sure to pack accordingly. Be sure you take the season into account.
Tennessee seems to be the busiest for tourists in the summer, though this is also the muggiest time of the year.
We recommend visiting in the fall or spring, as the weather is less humid and the trails less populated.
Happy hiking!
