Tennessee offers some of the most breathtaking hiking trails in the Southeast, perfect for both novice hikers and seasoned adventurers. From the misty peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains to the rugged beauty of Fiery Gizzard, the state’s trails showcase a diverse range of landscapes, including waterfalls, gorges, and sweeping mountain vistas. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful nature walk or a challenging ascent, Tennessee’s trails provide stunning natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor exploration. In this guide, we’ll highlight the best hiking trails in Tennessee, offering unforgettable experiences for anyone looking to connect with nature.
Alum Cave Trail
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Alum Cave Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a moderate hike with stunning views. At 4.4 miles round trip, the trail leads to Alum Cave Bluff, a rock overhang offering scenic views of the park. Along the way, hikers can enjoy sights like Arch Rock and Inspiration Point, making it one of the most popular trails in the park. The trail is also the starting point for the more challenging Mount LeConte hike.
Mount LeConte via Alum Cave
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
For those seeking a challenging adventure, the 11-mile round-trip hike to Mount LeConte via Alum Cave offers rewarding panoramic views. This strenuous trail ascends over 2,500 feet to the summit of one of the park’s tallest peaks. Along the way, hikers pass key landmarks like Alum Cave Bluff and Cliff Top. The breathtaking vistas at the summit, along with the chance to stay at LeConte Lodge, make this hike an unforgettable experience.
Fiery Gizzard Trail
South Cumberland State Park, TN
The Fiery Gizzard Trail, located in South Cumberland State Park, is a challenging yet rewarding hike known for its beautiful scenery, including waterfalls, rocky gorges, and overlooks. The full trail is around 12.5 miles one way, but shorter options are available. Highlights include the Blue Hole swimming area and Raven Point, offering stunning views of the gorge. It’s a must for avid hikers who want to experience some of Tennessee’s best natural features.
Chimney Tops Trail
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Chimney Tops Trail is a steep but short hike, covering 4 miles round trip. Despite its relatively short distance, it’s known for its challenging elevation gain. The trail leads to a rock outcrop with impressive views of the surrounding mountains. Recent trail updates have made the path safer after wildfire damage, but the last section remains closed for safety. Nevertheless, the trail offers spectacular sights along the way.
Laurel Falls Trail
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
One of the most popular hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Laurel Falls Trail is a 2.6-mile round-trip hike that leads to a stunning 80-foot waterfall. This trail is relatively easy and paved, making it a great option for families and casual hikers. The waterfall itself is a beautiful sight, with an upper and lower section divided by a walkway, and the surrounding forest is picturesque year-round.
Cumberland Trail
Various locations across Eastern Tennessee
The Cumberland Trail is a 300-mile-long scenic trail that traverses the eastern edge of Tennessee. Stretching from the Cumberland Gap to Signal Mountain, it offers diverse landscapes, from gorges and waterfalls to ridgelines and river valleys. While the entire trail is a thru-hiker’s dream, many sections, such as the Black Mountain and Laurel-Snow segments, offer incredible day hikes for those seeking a shorter adventure.
Charlies Bunion
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Charlies Bunion is a 8.1-mile round-trip hike offering incredible views of the Smoky Mountains. The trail follows the Appalachian Trail from Newfound Gap and is known for its breathtaking views of rocky outcrops and rolling mountains. Though moderately strenuous, the hike rewards adventurers with one of the most scenic vistas in the park. Hikers should be prepared for some steep sections but are rewarded with the stunning views at the rocky summit.
Benton Falls Trail
Benton, TN
The Benton Falls Trail, located in Cherokee National Forest, is a scenic 3-mile round-trip hike that leads to the stunning Benton Falls, where water cascades down a rocky slope over 65 feet high. This moderately easy trail is perfect for families and novice hikers, featuring a well-marked path through lush forest scenery.
Along the way, hikers can enjoy the sounds of the rushing water and the vibrant flora that surrounds the trail. The falls themselves provide a beautiful backdrop for photos and a peaceful spot to relax. Benton Falls Trail offers a delightful outdoor experience in the heart of Tennessee’s natural beauty.
Abrams Falls Trail
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Abrams Falls Trail is a 5-mile round-trip hike that leads to one of the park’s most powerful waterfalls. Despite its modest 20-foot height, Abrams Falls impresses with its water flow and surrounding scenery. The trail follows a lush, wooded path alongside Abrams Creek, offering a serene and peaceful hike. While the trail is moderate, some sections can be rocky, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
Virgin Falls Trail
Virgin Falls State Natural Area near Pleasant Hill, TN
Located in the Virgin Falls State Natural Area, Virgin Falls Trail is an 8-mile round-trip hike that leads to the stunning Virgin Falls, a waterfall that emerges from a cave and disappears into a sinkhole. Along the trail, hikers will encounter several smaller waterfalls and lush forest scenery. The moderate to strenuous hike offers a unique experience for nature lovers and waterfall enthusiasts, making it one of Tennessee’s hidden gems.
Radnor Lake State Park Trails
Nashville, TN
Radnor Lake State Park offers several hiking trails that range from easy to moderate. Located just outside of Nashville, it’s a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with chances to spot deer, otters, and a variety of birds. The Lake Trail is a flat, scenic walk around Radnor Lake, while the Ganier Ridge Trail offers a more challenging route with higher elevation. These peaceful, well-maintained trails make Radnor Lake a popular spot for day hikes and nature photography.
Tennessee’s hiking trails offer an unparalleled opportunity to explore the state’s diverse natural beauty, from cascading waterfalls and serene lakes to towering mountain peaks and lush forests. Whether you’re trekking the challenging Fiery Gizzard Trail, enjoying panoramic views from Charlies Bunion, or taking a peaceful stroll around Radnor Lake, there’s a trail for every adventurer.
These trails not only provide stunning scenery but also a chance to connect with nature and discover the unique landscapes that make Tennessee special. No matter your skill level, Tennessee’s trails promise unforgettable outdoor experiences for hikers of all ages and abilities.
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