Oct 25, 2024. Home / Manchester, Tennessee / Marketing
Tennessee also has breathtaking waterfalls, mountains, and great forests for hikers. Whether a person wants a well-respected trail for the whole family or an intense hike in the wilderness, there are plenty of trails to choose from. Below is a detailed description of some of the outstanding trails for hiking in Tennessee, with each offering a different experience.
Below are the places in Tennessee where you can go hiking for a great experience:
The crown jewel of Tennessee hiking, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, spans both Tennessee and North Carolina and offers over 800 miles of trails ranging from easy walks to strenuous hikes.
Alum Cave Trail: One of the most scenic and best hiking trails in Tennessee, the Alum Cave Trail offers a challenging yet rewarding experience. This 5-mile round-trip hike features remarkable geological formations such as Arch Rock and Alum Cave Bluff. The path is lined with rhododendrons and mountain laurels and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. For experienced hikers, the trail continues to Mount LeConte, one of the highest peaks in the park, offering breathtaking panoramas from its summit.
Laurel Falls Trail: A family-friendly Tennessee outdoor adventure, this easy 2.6-mile round-trip trail takes you to the beautiful 80-foot Laurel Falls. Named for the mountain laurel that blooms along the trail, this hike is accessible for all levels and perfect for those looking to enjoy the beauty of a Smoky Mountain waterfall without a strenuous climb.
Grotto Falls Trail: A moderate, 3-mile round-trip hike, the Grotto Falls Trail is famous for the opportunity to walk behind a 25-foot waterfall. Nestled in the Trillium Gap area, the trail meanders through old-growth hemlock forests and offers a cool, refreshing stop on a warm day. The mist from the falls makes this hike particularly enchanting, especially for photographers and families.
Located in Jackson County, Cummins Falls is a stunning natural hiking destination in Tennessee that combines hiking with a chance to cool off in its picturesque swimming hole. The 75-foot waterfall cascades into a large pool, creating an ideal spot for visitors to swim or relax by the water.
The Trail to Cummins Falls: This 1.5-mile hike is considered moderate to strenuous due to river crossings and slippery rocks, but the payoff is well worth it. As you make your way through forested paths and scenic overlooks, you’ll hear the rush of the falls before reaching the water’s edge. For a more adventurous experience, you can extend your hike by exploring downstream, wading through the Blackburn Fork Scenic River and discovering hidden pools and waterfalls.
One of Tennessee’s largest and most visited state parks, Fall Creek Falls State Park is renowned for its towering waterfalls, scenic gorges, and rich biodiversity. The park is located in Van Buren and Bledsoe Counties and covers over 26,000 acres.
Fall Creek Falls: The park’s namesake waterfall is a showstopper, plunging 256 feet, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in the eastern United States. Several short trails lead to breathtaking overlooks, where you can gaze in awe at the falls from different perspectives. For a more immersive experience, the Gorge Overlook and Woodland Trails offer a moderate 3-mile loop that winds through the park's lush forests, cliffs, and cascades, providing views of the falls and other natural features.
Cable Trail: For those looking for something more challenging, the Cable Trail descends steeply into the gorge and requires the use of a steel cable to navigate its rocky terrain. It’s a short but strenuous hike that offers a thrilling adventure for experienced hikers and rewards you with an up-close view of Cane Creek Falls.
Part of the South Cumberland State Park, Savage Gulf is a wilderness area known for its dramatic cliffs, deep gorges, and beautiful waterfalls. Covering more than 15,000 acres, this area offers hikers a true escape into nature.
Savage Day Loop Trail: This 5.8-mile loop is a moderate hike that showcases some of the area’s most striking features, including towering sandstone cliffs and waterfalls such as the 50-foot Savage Falls. The trail takes you through diverse ecosystems, offering opportunities to see wildlife and enjoy the serenity of the forest.
Stone Door Trail: For a more challenging hike, the Stone Door Trail leads to a massive crack in the cliff face known as the “Stone Door,” used by Native Americans as a passageway. This 1.6-mile trail continues along the rim of the gulf, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding landscapes. The views from the Stone Door Overlook are nothing short of spectacular, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Encompassing over 600,000 acres, Cherokee National Forest is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The forest is divided by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and offers countless opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. If you are looking for Tennessee National Parks, this is the place to be.
Benton Falls Trail: One of the most popular hikes in Cherokee National Forest, this 3-mile trail is suitable for all skill levels. The trail leads through dense forest and ends at the stunning 65-foot Benton Falls, a perfect spot for a picnic or a quiet afternoon by the water. The trail is relatively easy, with minimal elevation gain, making it ideal for families and casual hikers.
Unaka Mountain Overlook: For a more strenuous hike, Unaka Mountain offers rugged trails and sweeping views from its summit. The Bald Mountain Ridge Trail climbs through dense forests to the summit of Unaka Mountain, offering a challenging but rewarding experience for experienced hikers.
Below are some useful hiking tips for Tennessee:
When to Go: Spring and fall are the best times to hike in Tennessee, offering mild temperatures and beautiful scenery with blooming wildflowers or vibrant autumn colors. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter offers the solitude of snow-dusted trails in higher elevations.
What to Bring: Always carry plenty of water, wear sturdy hiking boots, and bring layers to account for changing weather. Bug spray is essential in warmer months, and a camera is a must for the stunning views along the way.
Safety: Be aware of wildlife, particularly black bears in the Smoky Mountains. Stay on designated trails, and if you're hiking near waterfalls, exercise caution, as rocks can be slippery.
If you are planning to visit Tennessee, make sure that you book your stay at a reputed hotel. You can choose Lodging near Manchester, TN, one of the central areas of Tennessee. Lx Hotel is one of the top hotels in Manchester, TN with premium amenities. You can have a great experience at Lx Hotel, which has all the facilities you need for a comfortable stay.
Whether you’re drawn to the waterfalls of Fall Creek Falls, the wilds of Savage Gulf, or the panoramic views in the Smokies, Tennessee’s hiking trails offer something for everyone. Plan your adventure today and immerse yourself in the beauty and diversity of the Volunteer State’s great outdoors.
1. What are the best beginner hiking trails in Tennessee?
Laurel Falls Trail and Benton Falls Trail are great for beginners, offering easy, scenic hikes in Tennessee.
2. When is the best time to hike in Tennessee?
Spring and fall are ideal for hiking in Tennessee, with mild weather and beautiful scenery.
3. Where can I stay when hiking in Tennessee?
Stay at Lx Hotel for convenient lodging near Manchester, TN, close to top hiking spots.
All rights reserved, Copyrights © LX Hotel, BW Signature Collection by Best Western. Powered by Aries Connects World Inc.
