The Best Hikes in Tennessee

By Cap Puckhaber, Reno, Nevada

I’m Cap Puckhaber, a marketer, investor, and occasional blogger, but more importantly, I’m someone who prioritizes time outdoors. Over the years, I’ve trekked trails across the United States, from New England’s rugged coastlines to the deserts of Arizona, but Tennessee consistently stands out. It combines accessibility with landscape variety in a way few states can. You can start your morning on a challenging ridge in the Smoky Mountains, explore a serene plateau trail in the afternoon, and still catch sunset views along an urban greenway near Nashville. The state’s trail network is remarkably diverse, offering something for every level of hiker.

Tennessee’s trails cater to all hikers. Beginners can enjoy smooth loops along rivers or waterfalls, which provide visual rewards without taxing endurance. Meanwhile, long-distance hikers can tackle multi-day treks across the Cumberland Plateau or the Smokies, testing both stamina and navigation skills. Scenery ranges from open balds with sweeping panoramas to shaded forests with meandering streams and abundant wildlife. Below, I break down my top hiking picks, enriched with practical tips to make your trips easier, safer, and more rewarding.

Why Tennessee Hiking Stands Out

Tennessee hiking excels due to three key elements: accessibility, variety, and year-round options. Together, these factors create a trail network that’s easy to reach, endlessly engaging, and visually striking.

Accessibility

One of Tennessee’s biggest advantages is proximity to major population centers. Cities like Nashville, Knoxville, and Chattanooga sit just minutes from wilderness areas, making spontaneous hiking trips feasible. From Nashville, Radnor Lake offers a quick nature escape, while Gatlinburg serves as the gateway to the Smokies. Knoxville is ideally located for exploring both the Smokies and the Cumberland Plateau. This means you can squeeze in a meaningful hike without spending half the day on the road. For comprehensive trail maps, check out AllTrails Tennessee Hiking.

Variety

Tennessee packs a remarkable range of landscapes into a compact area. The Cumberland Plateau features dramatic cliffs, gorges, and rugged trails perfect for challenging day hikes. The Smokies offer iconic ridge walks, waterfalls, and rich biodiversity. Middle Tennessee provides shaded loops, river greenways, and rolling hills ideal for casual or beginner-friendly hikes. You could explore a waterfall one day, climb a high ridge the next, and finish the week on an urban trail without repeating scenery. This variety ensures each hike feels fresh and exciting.

Year-Round Options

Tennessee hiking is enjoyable in every season, each offering a unique perspective. Spring brings blooming wildflowers along trails like Porters Creek Trail. Summer opens swimming opportunities at places like Cummins Falls. Fall showcases vibrant foliage throughout the Smokies, while winter exposes broad, frosty panoramas for those prepared to brave cold and shorter daylight. Each season provides a new lens to experience the state’s landscapes, from lush green forests to sparkling snow-capped ridges.

Best Time to Hike in Tennessee

The ideal season depends on whether you prioritize scenery, temperature, or solitude. Spring and fall typically offer the most comfortable conditions, but each season has unique perks.

Spring (March to May)

In the spring, trails like Porters Creek Trail light up with wildflowers, and streams swell from seasonal rains. Temperatures usually range in the 60s and 70s, ideal for day hikes. Wildlife becomes more active, providing excellent opportunities for photography or birdwatching. Hikers should dress in light layers and carry water to stay comfortable during fluctuating weather conditions.

Summer (June to August)

Summer can be hot and humid, especially in lower elevations. Start hikes early to beat the heat and choose shaded trails or routes ending at waterfalls such as Cummins Falls and Greeter Falls. Carry sufficient water, insect protection, and wear breathable clothing. With these precautions, summer hikes can be both safe and enjoyable, offering opportunities for swimming and relaxing in natural pools.

Fall (September to November)

Fall brings crisp mornings and brilliant foliage, peaking in the Smokies around mid-October. Cooler temperatures make climbs more comfortable, and the colorful leaves provide endless photo opportunities. Even crowded trails feel spacious when surrounded by the explosion of autumn colors. Fall also offers fewer insects, making longer hikes more enjoyable and wildlife encounters more frequent.

Winter (December to February)

Winter offers solitude and dramatic scenery as bare trees expose panoramic views. Frosted ridges at Frozen Head State Park create a magical backdrop. Plan for shorter days and icy conditions, but the reward is quiet trails and a sense of untouched wilderness. Hikers should wear insulated clothing and bring traction devices for icy paths.

Nashville: Urban Trails with Scenic Payoffs

Nashville offers more than music; it’s a hub for accessible hiking. Trails provide quick escapes into nature without sacrificing wildlife or scenery.

Radnor Lake State Park

Radnor Lake features a 2.5-mile loop, ideal for morning or evening walks. Wildlife sightings include deer, herons, and occasionally river otters. For more challenge, the Ganier Ridge Trail adds elevation and overlooks for a more strenuous experience. Early arrival is recommended on weekends to secure parking, and bring binoculars to enjoy birdwatching along the lake and streams.

Percy Warner Park — Mossy Ridge Trail

Mossy Ridge Trail is a 4.5-mile loop with rolling terrain and abundant shade, ideal for a post-work hike that still provides a solid workout. The trail is well-marked and maintained, allowing hikers to focus on nature rather than navigation. This route offers diverse plant life and occasional wildlife sightings, making every step engaging.

Shelby Bottoms Greenway

This paved greenway runs along the Cumberland River, providing flat terrain for families, walkers, and cyclists. The trail offers scenic river views, picnic areas, and opportunities to observe waterfowl. It’s perfect for low-impact hikes or combining hiking with casual biking for a full day of outdoor activity.

Beaman Park

Beaman Park offers a more immersive forest experience with creeks and small streams. The Henry Hollow Loop is a two-mile escape that feels remote despite its proximity to the city. Hikers can practice mindfulness, spot birds, or enjoy a peaceful break from urban noise. Seasonal changes enhance the trail’s visual appeal, from spring blooms to autumn leaf displays.

Knoxville: Quiet, Rugged, and Underrated

Knoxville lies between the Smokies and the Cumberland Plateau, providing a variety of trails for hikers of all levels.

House Mountain

House Mountain rises to around 2,100 feet. The West Overlook Trail climbs steeply but rewards hikers with expansive views. Trekking poles are useful for steeper descents, especially on slick rocks after rain. On clear days, you can see ridges stretching for miles.

Ijams Nature Center

Ijams Nature Center combines wetlands, a former quarry, and river overlooks. The River Trail is easy for families, while the Ross Marble Quarry Loop offers rocky terrain for those seeking varied footing. Ijams blends accessibility with diversity, making it ideal for both casual hikers and serious trekkers. Hikers can find guided hikes and trail maps at the Ijams Nature Center website.

Forks of the River and Urban Wilderness

This trail network includes over 30 miles of interconnected paths, allowing long loop hikes or short circuits near the city. Hikers enjoy solitude without sacrificing convenience, making it ideal for short excursions and extended hiking days.

Trails and Waterfalls of Gatlinburg and the Smokies

The Smokies are Tennessee’s crown jewels, attracting hikers worldwide. Trails range from short family-friendly loops to strenuous mountain climbs.

Laurel Falls Trail

Laurel Falls is a 2.6-mile round trip that is paved and highly accessible. It’s ideal for beginners, offering gentle elevation. Despite its simplicity, the waterfall views are impressive and rewarding, capturing the attention of both novice and experienced hikers.

Grotto Falls

Grotto Falls is a 2.6-mile hike through shaded forest that ends at a waterfall you can walk behind. The combination of accessible terrain and a sense of adventure makes this trail popular among photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Porters Creek Trail

This roughly four-mile round trip mixes history, wildflowers, and a small waterfall. Less crowded than other popular trails, it offers a quieter hiking experience. Hikers can spot historic cabins, enjoy seasonal wildflowers, and hear birdsong echoing through the forest canopy.

Alum Cave to Mount LeConte

This challenging 10-mile round-trip hike gains roughly 2,700 feet of elevation. The trail passes Arch Rock and Alum Cave Bluffs before rewarding hikers with sweeping summit views. Bring layers, snacks, and plan for a full-day effort. Along the way, hikers encounter rocky outcrops, dense forests, and panoramic overlooks that make the exertion worthwhile.

Tennessee’s Hidden Gems

Frozen Head State Park

Frozen Head lies west of the Smokies. The Fire Tower Trail climbs to panoramic views extending into neighboring states. In winter, frost transforms ridges into sparkling vistas. Hikers should prepare for rocky, uneven summit approaches and changing weather conditions.

Savage Gulf, South Cumberland State Park

Savage Gulf spans roughly 55 miles of trails, including sandstone cliffs, gorges, and waterfalls. Stone Door provides family-friendly overlooks, while Big Creek Gulf offers rugged backcountry terrain for multi-mile hikes. Seasonal changes enhance the dramatic scenery. Visitor info: South Cumberland State Park.

Cummins Falls State Park

Cummins Falls features a 2.5-mile trail leading to a 75-foot waterfall and natural swimming pool. Summer visitors enjoy a refreshing dip at the base. Rock surfaces can be slippery, so water shoes are recommended. The trail combines a moderate hike with one of Tennessee’s most scenic natural swimming spots.

Practical Safety Tips for Hiking Tennessee

• Start early to avoid crowds and heat.
• Bring sufficient water, especially in humid months.
• Download offline maps as service is limited in many areas.
• Practice bear awareness: keep food sealed and maintain distance.
• Wear proper footwear to navigate slick rocks and exposed roots.
• Plan parking because popular trailheads fill quickly on weekends and holidays.

Final Thoughts

Tennessee deserves a place on every hiker’s bucket list. It blends accessible trails with variety—from urban loops to rugged backcountry adventures. Match your hikes to your fitness and experience, start with shorter trails if new, and save places like Savage Gulf or Alum Cave for challenging, rewarding days. Tennessee’s combination of beauty, convenience, and diversity makes every hike memorable. Share your favorite trail if it’s not listed—I’m always seeking new adventures.

Happy hiking,
Cap Puckhaber
Hiker | Blogger | Explorer

About the author

Cap Puckhaber is a marketing strategist, finance writer, and outdoor enthusiast. He writes across CapPuckhaber.com, TheHikingAdventures.com, SimpleFinanceBlog.com, and BlackDiamondMarketingSolutions.com. Follow him for honest, real-world advice backed by 20+ years of experience.