Hiking Trails

Waterfalls, Wildflowers, and Wilderness Adventures .

Hike Your Way

Choose your adventure in the Nine Lakes Region of East Tennessee: explore national foot trails or delightful wildflower hikes. For seasoned hikers, the Triple Falls Trail on the Cumberland Trail offers a 1.9-mile round-trip journey featuring a stunning three-tiered waterfall along Bruce Creek. Families can enjoy the gentle paths of Big Ridge State Park, where wildflower blooms and lake views provide a serene setting. For a more immersive experience, consider the John Muir Trail in the Cherokee National Forest or a hike on the A.T. Trail offering both day hikes and backcountry camping opportunities.”

Martha Sundquist State Forest

Martha Sundquist State Forest offers a variety of hiking experiences, from the 9-mile Horse Route that loops the forest perimeter to the more secluded trails accessible via gravel roads, all set within a tranquil mountain landscape. Popular stops are Hen Wallow Falls and dispersed primitive campsites. Learn More

Daniel Boone Trail- Cumberland Gap National Historic Park

The Park has over 80 miles of trail including the historic Daniel Boone Trail retraces the path blazed by Boone through the Cumberland Gap, offering a 2.5-mile hike connecting Kentucky and Virginia. For panoramic views, hike the Pinnacle Overlook Trail, a 7.8-mile out-and-back journey that ascends 1,804 feet, culminating in breathtaking vistas where Tennessee, Kentucky, and Virginia converge. Learn More

Sheltowee Trace

One of the trailheads for the Sheltowee Trace, a 343-mile National Recreation Trail, is located near Historic Rugby. Follow the iconic turtle blazes as they guide you through lush forests, offering a peaceful retreat into nature. Learn More

Justin P Wilson Cumberland Trail

Hiking the Justin P. Wilson Cumberland Trail offers hikers rugged ridgelines, cascading waterfalls, and ancient caves. Traverse diverse terrains—from moss-draped gorges to expansive overlooks—each step immersing you deeper into Tennessee’s wild beauty. When the trail is completed, it will stretch 300 miles from Cumberland Gap to the Chattanooga at the Tennessee River Gorge. Learn More

Knoxville Urban Wilderness

Ijams Nature Center, nestled just 3.5 miles from downtown Knoxville, spans 315 acres of diverse habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and quarries. It features over 14 miles of natural-surface trails, a paved greenway, and the Ross Marble Quarry, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, paddling, and wildlife observation.” Learn More

East Lakeshore Trail System

The East Lakeshore Trail, a national recreation trail, offers over 30 miles of scenic hiking along Tellico Lake’s eastern shore, featuring forested paths, lake views, and access to wildlife, with multiple trailheads and boat landings for easy access Learn More