When temperatures begin to hit the 40s and below, the last thing I would normally think of is hiking! I mean who in their right mind would leave their warm home (or cozy yurt) in search of possible frost bite? Not this girl but talking with some friends, seeing the pictures of their hikes, I begin to understand their fascination with hiking in the winter.
Winter brings a completely different look to the mountains, and let’s face it, no matter the season, East Tennessee has no shortage of beautiful trails. Here’s a few of East Tennessee most beautiful winter trails, perfect for all levels of hikers. Remember to stay safe while hiking: remain hydrated and stay on paths marked by Tennessee’s official state parks and wildlife management teams.
Frozen Head State Park
Wartburg: Explore 24,000 acres of wilderness made of hiking, biking and horse riding trails at Frozen Head State Park. The peak of the Cumberland Mountains at 3,324 ft. is covered in ice and snow in the winter months. Perfect for that always-coveted Tennessee Instagram photo-op.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Sevier County: The nation’s most visited park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, also has a wealth of hiking opportunities. Get out in nature and discover what wildlife roams this time of year. With waterfalls, forests, panorama views, and caves, the most difficult part of your trip will be choosing which trail to explore.
Foster Falls Recreation Area
Sequatchie: Foster Falls Recreation Area is one of the most scenic wild areas in Tennessee. Take an easy hike to see the beauty of the falls. After you’ve snapped as many photos as your heart desires, continue along the suspension bridge over the river to the base of the falls.
Fall Creek Falls State Park
Spencer: Waterfalls, rock formations, streams and gorges can all be found within the 26,000 acres of Fall Creek Falls State Park. With 35 hiking trails already mapped out, some which lead you to this elegant waterfall, you can have a fun full day in Tennessee’s lush outdoors.
Long Hunter State Park
Hermitage: Enjoy a variety of terrain and hiking skill levels on the more than 20 miles of hiking trails at Long Hunter State Park. Strolls along the paved arboretum trail or some of the more adventurous routes are all yours for the taking.
Natchez Trace State Park
Wildersville: A wealth of history from animal crossings to Native American trade and travel routes can all be found at Natchez Trace State Park. Walk through forests and fields and along streams on the 13.5 miles of hiking trails, ranging from half-mile to 4.5 mile trails.
