Adult blacklegged ticks are often active through fall and winter, especially on days when temperatures climb above freezing. That surprised me the first time I read it. I had always pictured ticks packing up when the leaves dropped.
These tiny hitchhikers wait on grass tips and low brush. They can’t jump or fly, so they simply grab whatever brushes past. Sadly, that includes your sock.
Tennessee has some of the prettiest fall and winter trails around. Crisp air, quiet paths, and leafless views make cool-season hiking a treat. A little planning keeps the fun on the trail and the ticks off your ankles.
So which trails deserve your boots this season? I picked spots across the state, from western forests to eastern peaks. Grab your bug spray and a lint roller, because the woods are still awake.
1. Frozen Head State Park
A park named Frozen Head sounds like it should scare ticks away. Sadly, the name doesn’t come with a bug guarantee.
This 24,000-acre park near Wartburg packs in miles of trails through dense, tall forest. The tree canopy gives you shade in summer and a moody, quiet feel later in the year.
The big prize is the lookout at the top. You hike up, climb the fire tower, and earn sweeping views over the hills. Along the way, overlooks and waterfalls give you good reasons to stop and breathe.
Those stops are smart moments for a quick tick check. Glance at your shoelaces, pant cuffs, and the backs of your knees. It takes about thirty seconds and saves you a nasty surprise later.
Trails here range from easy to tough, so you can pick your level of leg burn. Kids will find friendly hikes, plus a playground with slides and swings near picnic areas.
Tent campers can stay overnight, which means more hours in the woods. Treat your gear with repellent before the trip and check your tent zipper area too. Ticks love a free ride as much as you love a good campsite.
Address: 964 Flat Fork Rd, Wartburg, TN 37887
2. Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park
Birders and hikers share the woods at this West Tennessee favorite. So do ticks, which don’t care that it’s sweater weather.
Meeman-Shelby Forest covers about 13,000 acres of wooded land near Millington. You get hiking trails, a lake, and plenty of chances to spot birds and other animals. A paved trail also winds through the forest for bikers.
Bringing your dog? Trails here are dog-friendly, and some cabins welcome pets too. Your pup is basically a furry tick magnet, so ask your vet about prevention before the trip.
After the hike, run your hands through your dog’s coat. Check around ears, collar, armpits, and between the toes. Then check yourself, because you were in the same woods.
Families have lots to keep busy here beyond the trails. Kids can explore the nature center and burn off energy on the playground. Pedal boats on the lake and horseback riding round out the options.
Birdwatching often means standing still near brushy edges. That’s prime tick territory, so tuck your pants into your socks. It’s not a fashion statement, but the birds won’t judge.
Address: 910 Riddick Rd, Millington, TN 38053
3. Fall Creek Falls State Park
Waterfalls steal the show at Fall Creek Falls, and that’s no shock with a name like that. The surprise is that ticks keep working well past summer here too.
This huge park near Spencer has multiple waterfalls, scenic trails, and overlooks that show off rugged Tennessee scenery. One popular loop crosses a suspension bridge and passes an overlook of Piney Falls.
Want a short challenge? The hike to Buzzard’s Roost is only about 0.4 miles, but it’s strenuous. Your legs will notice, even if the distance looks tiny on paper.
Hikers wanting a longer route can try an 8-mile trail for a full day out. More miles mean more brushing past leaves and grass. Stick to the middle of the path when you can, since ticks wait along the edges.
When you’re done, the park has a lodge, a restaurant, camping, and an 18-hole championship golf course. There’s also a tennis court and a playground for kids.
Here’s a handy habit before heading inside. Tumble dry clothes on high heat for 10 minutes to kill ticks on dry clothing; damp clothes may require additional time. Heat helps knock out any sneaky ticks still clinging to the fabric.
Address: 2009 Village Camp Rd, Spencer, TN 38585
4. Roan Mountain State Park
High elevation sounds like a tick-free zone, right? Not quite, so pack your repellent even when the air feels crisp.
Roan Mountain State Park sits in the shadow of the Roan Highlands, a region known for its rhododendrons. The park offers well-kept hiking trails and easy access to the famous Appalachian Trail.
Head up to Carver’s Gap for big views on the Appalachian Trail. Grassy balds up high look gorgeous, but tall grass is exactly where ticks like to wait. Walk the worn path and avoid wading through the weeds.
Back down in the park, you’ll find cabins and a campground with clean restrooms. The former swimming pool has been demolished, though tennis, volleyball, and basketball courts remain available.
Light-colored clothes are a clever trick here. Ticks show up much easier on khaki than on dark navy. Spotting one early means flicking it off before it settles.
Families can choose kid-friendly hikes and finish at the playground. It’s a great base for exploring this corner of East Tennessee. Just make the post-hike tick check part of the routine, like taking off muddy boots.
Address: 1015 Hwy 143, Roan Mountain, TN 37687
5. Radnor Lake State Park
Nashville is famous for music, but this park is famous for quiet. Deer, herons, turtles, and turkeys are the headliners here.
Radnor Lake State Park covers 1,368 acres inside the city. It has a visitor center and six hiking trails showing off native plants and wildlife. Bald eagles have even been spotted around the lake.
Wildlife is wonderful, but deer carry ticks around like tiny backpacks. Where deer roam, ticks often follow. Keep that in mind when you step off the main path for a better photo.
A loop around the lake runs about 2.6 miles, and longer routes stretch toward 4 miles. Side trails branch off for more exploring. It’s a great way to escape the city without leaving it.
Swimming and boating aren’t allowed in the lake. That keeps the water calm and the animals relaxed.
Spray repellent on your shoes and socks before you start. Products with permethrin work on clothing, while other sprays go on skin. Read the labels and follow them carefully.
Afterward, do a mirror check at home. Ticks love warm spots like your waistband and hairline. Nobody wants a souvenir that bites.
Address: 1160 Otter Creek Rd, Nashville, TN 37220
6. Natchez Trace State Park
Three lakes, a horse camp, and plenty of forest make this park a West Tennessee playground. Ticks clearly agree, because they hang around well into the cooler months.
Natchez Trace State Park near Wildersville is a big place with lots of ways to stay. You can book the inn, a cabin, or a campsite. Boating and paddle boating add some fun on the water.
The trails are well kept and serve both hikers and horseback riders. You’ll find a mix of inclines, from gentle to more of a workout. Watch for deer, frogs, and butterflies along the way.
Horse trails can mean trampled brush and grassy edges. Wear long pants and closed shoes rather than sneakers with no socks. Your ankles will thank you.
Planning a picnic after your hike? The park has grills, picnic tables, and a playground with swings and slides.
Before you sit on that grass, do a quick sweep of your legs. Ticks often climb upward from the ground, so start at your shoes. Work your way up like you’re looking for lost keys.
Address: 24845 Natchez Trace Rd, Wildersville, TN 38388
7. Cumberland Mountain State Park
Easy trails don’t mean easy escape from ticks. Short hikes still pass through leaf litter, where these critters like to hide in cool weather.
Cumberland Mountain State Park in Crossville sets campsites, trails, and picnic pavilions around a lake. Golfers know it for its Jack Nicklaus-designed course. Hikers love the short trails and a suspension bridge.
This historic park also has a museum and a restaurant. After a stroll, you can grab a meal without driving off. That’s a nice bonus on a chilly afternoon.
Kids will find plenty to do here. Playgrounds, basketball and volleyball courts, and tennis keep young legs moving. A swimming pool rounds things out in warmer months.
Leaf piles are tempting for kids, but ticks often rest in them. Keep jumping to cleared areas and playgrounds instead. Then check little ones closely behind the ears and along the scalp.
Boating on the lake is another way to enjoy the scenery. Water won’t stop ticks you picked up earlier, though. A quick check before you climb in the boat is smart.
Address: 24 Office Dr, Crossville, TN 38555
8. Virgin Falls State Natural Area
A waterfall that seems to come out of nowhere is a wild sight. Virgin Falls is the star here, but the hike to reach it is the real adventure.
This natural area near Sparta covers more than 1,000 acres of wilderness. You’ll find hiking trails, campsites, caves, and several waterfalls.
The trail to Virgin Falls runs about 4.3 miles one way and is challenging. That’s a long day of brushing past rocks, roots, and plants. Pace yourself and bring plenty of water.
Backpackers love this area for overnight trips. Camping means sleeping close to the ground, where ticks live. Keep your tent zipped and shake out sleeping bags before crawling in.
Cool fall days make this tough hike more pleasant. They don’t make ticks go away, so stay alert. Check yourself during rest stops near the waterfalls.
Wear sturdy boots, too, because the terrain is rugged. Tucking pants into boots helps keep ticks out. It also keeps mud from sneaking in, which is a double win.
When you get home, shower within a couple of hours. It’s a simple way to wash off any ticks that haven’t latched on yet.
Address: 2080 Scotts Gulf Rd, Sparta, TN 38583
9. Little Cedar Mountain Trail Small Wild Area
Small name, big views. This wild area near Jasper proves you don’t need a giant park for a great hike.
TVA lists the trail as moderate with a gentle-to-moderate grade, while another TVA resource describes the four-mile route as challenging. Along the way, you’ll see unique rock formations and views of Nickajack Lake and the river.
There’s even a waterfall on the route. That makes it a solid pick for families who want scenery without a brutal climb. Families should consider the trail’s moderate-to-challenging rating and each child’s hiking ability before attempting it.
Camping and fires are allowed here, which adds to the fun. Just remember that sitting on logs or leaves can invite ticks onto your clothes. Bring a camp chair or blanket for a cleaner seat.
Dogs are welcome on the trail, too. Keep your pup on the path and away from tall weeds. Then do a full fur check before loading back into the car.
Rocky overlooks make great photo spots in fall and winter. With leaves down, the lake views open up even more. It’s the perfect last stop on any Tennessee cool-weather hiking list, as long as your tick check is the final step.
Address: 715 Tva Rd, Jasper, TN 37347
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