Alum Cave Trail
Great Smoky Mountains (TN side)
A moderate 5-mile round-trip trail featuring a dramatic cave shelter, old-growth hemlock forest, and stunning mountain vistas, offering one of the most scenic hikes on the Tennessee side.
Photo by Lenzatic on Pixabay
Cloudland Canyon East Rim Trail
Chattanooga area
Trek through quiet woodland to reach secluded canyon vistas and encounter the geological drama of Georgia's most impressive natural gorge from a quieter perspective.
Photo by K on Pexels
Cloudland Canyon Rim Trail
Chattanooga area
Walk the scenic overlook trail along the canyon's edge for sweeping views of the layered rock formations and forested valley below, perfect for less strenuous exploration.
Photo by K on Pexels
Cumberland River Greenway
Nashville
A scenic paved trail system winding along Nashville's iconic waterfront with stunning views of the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge and downtown skyline. Perfect for walking, jogging, or biking while experiencing the city's natural beauty and urban landscape.
Photo by MINEIA MARTINS on Pexels
Laurel Creek Gorge & Waterfall
Big South Fork NRRA
A moderate backcountry waterfall hike that rewards trekkers with cascading falls framed by towering hemlock and rhododendron thickets, exemplifying the region's dramatic gorge geology. The trail delivers solitude and authentic wilderness immersion away from main visitor corridors.
Photo by Joshua Woroniecki on Pexels
Mississippi River Greenbelt Trail
Memphis area
A scenic waterfront pathway offering stunning views of the Mississippi River and sunset vistas over Arkansas. This revitalized riverfront trail connects downtown attractions and showcases Memphis's relationship with the mighty river.
Photo by Goodfreephotos_com on Pixabay
Strawberry Plains Pike
Knoxville area
A scenic, accessible rail-trail conversion following historic routes through farmland and forest with sweeping views of the Great Smoky Mountains. Perfect for biking or leisurely walking while experiencing rural Appalachian landscapes.
Photo by Couleur on Pixabay
Tennessee offers diverse hiking opportunities across the state, from the mountains of East Tennessee to the river valleys near major cities. This guide covers six key hiking regions including Great Smoky Mountains, Chattanooga, Nashville, Big South Fork NRRA, Memphis, and the Knoxville area. Travelers will find seven featured attractions ranging from waterfall hikes to riverside trails, providing options for various skill levels and interests. Whether exploring dramatic gorges, scenic rim trails, or urban greenways, hikers can discover Tennessee's natural landscape through well-established routes in these regions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hiking attractions are featured near Chattanooga?⌄
The Chattanooga area features two Cloudland Canyon trails: the East Rim Trail and the Rim Trail, both offering scenic ridge-top hiking experiences.
Are there hiking options in or near Nashville?⌄
Yes, the Nashville region includes hiking opportunities, with Strawberry Plains Pike available in the surrounding area.
What water-related hikes does the guide cover?⌄
The guide features several water-focused hikes including Laurel Creek Gorge & Waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountains region, plus riverside trails such as the Cumberland River Greenway and the Mississippi River Greenbelt Trail.
Which regions in the guide have hiking trails?⌄
The six regions covered are Great Smoky Mountains (TN side), Chattanooga area, Nashville, Big South Fork NRRA, Memphis area, and Knoxville area, each offering distinct hiking experiences.
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