Incredible Tennessee Hikes You’ll Want to Add to Your Bucket List
Tennessee is packed with trails that reward every step with rich history, roaring waterfalls, and views you will replay in your mind for years. Whether you are chasing quiet boardwalks through wetlands or scrambling across rugged boulder fields, there is a hike here that will light you up. Consider this your invitation to lace up, breathe deep, and find out how good miles can feel. Pick a trail, start early, and let the Volunteer State surprise you in the best way.
1. T.O. Fuller State Park (Memphis)
Just minutes from Memphis, the four mile trail at T.O. Fuller State Park feels like an escape without the long drive. You will cruise beneath tall oaks and sweetgum as birds chatter above and dragonflies drift over the wetlands. When seasonal wildflowers pop, the path turns into a living color wheel and your camera roll fills fast.
The route is moderate, with enough elevation changes to keep your legs honest but never overwhelming. Boardwalk sections glide across marshy pockets where turtles sunbathe and frogs add a soundtrack. If you are new to hiking, this loop is welcoming. If you are experienced, it is perfect for a recovery day. Either way, you finish refreshed, city stress left among the trees.
2. Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park (Pinson)
Pinson Mounds is where a quiet walk becomes a conversation with deep time. Paved, accessible paths flow among one of the Southeast’s largest Native American mound complexes, blending gentle hills with open meadow light. You will move slowly, reading interpretive signs, feeling the hush settle as you trace footsteps across centuries.
This is not about rushing miles. It is about listening to wind over grass and noticing how earthworks shape the horizon. Families, stroller pushers, and history lovers can all explore together. Benches welcome lingering, and the museum adds context that makes each mound feel alive. Finish near sunset when the low light warms the landscape, and you leave with a calm that follows you home like a soft echo.
3. Virgin Falls State Natural Area (Sparta)
If you crave adventure, Virgin Falls delivers a rugged out and back packed with cascading rewards. The trail threads past several waterfalls before climaxing at the 110 foot showstopper that disappears into a cave. You stand in the mist watching water vanish underground, a magic trick performed by geology.
Expect roots, rocks, and steady elevation changes that challenge legs and demand good footwear. Trekking poles help, and starting early keeps the day sane. Bring plenty of water and a snack for the turnaround, because you will want time to soak in the amphitheater of sound. On the hike out, each smaller fall feels like an encore. Finish tired, proud, and already planning the return for high flow days.
4. Fiery Gizzard Trail (South Cumberland State Park, Tracy City)
The Fiery Gizzard is the legendary bruiser you train for and brag about afterward. This loop reels you through waterfalls, boulder fields, and fern laced creekside sections that feel wild and cinematic. Overlooks break open with big views, perfect for a sandwich and a little awe before the next scramble.
Footing matters here. The rocks keep you honest, so plan time and pace accordingly. Water filters, sturdy shoes, and a snack strategy turn the day from sufferfest to satisfying. You will leave with that earned fatigue only a great trail gives. Many rank it among America’s best, and on a cool morning with rushing water in your ears, you will understand exactly why.
5. Alum Cave Trail to Mt. LeConte (Great Smoky Mountains National Park, near Gatlinburg)
Alum Cave to Mt. LeConte is a Smokies classic that earns every superlative. From arching rock features and tight staircases to the sweeping Alum Cave Bluffs, there is nonstop variety. As you climb, the air cools and views unfold in bands of blue ridges that seem to float forever.
The final push brings you to the LeConte Lodge area, where cabins and panoramic overlooks deliver the payoff you dreamed about at the trailhead. Start early, pack layers, and mind the narrow sections when crowds build. On clear days you can watch clouds drag shadows like paintbrushes across the valleys. You return with tired calves, a full heart, and photos that barely capture the wonder.
6. Point Trail at Lilly Bluff (Obed Wild & Scenic River, Wartburg)
The Point Trail at Lilly Bluff is a moderate wander that ends with a gasp. You step onto a sandstone balcony and the Obed Gorge spreads wide, river shining below like a ribbon of steel. On the way, a hidden natural arch rewards those paying attention to side paths and shadows.
It is a perfect golden hour stroll, and after sunset the Dark Sky designation truly shows off. Bring a headlamp, a blanket, and patience as the Milky Way spills across the canyon. The trail is friendly, but watch your footing near cliff edges. Come for the view, stay for the stars, and leave whispering promises to return on the next clear night.
