With the warm weather comes ample opportunities to embark on a Made in Tennessee adventure. Soak in the sunshine. Drink in the views from bluffs, hills and mountains. Exploration is calling to all its Tennessee travelers. Will you answer?
* All photos provided by Chuck Sutherland
Devil's Racetrack – Caryville
The 3.5-mile trail is a moderate hike with steep inclines and sharp turns. The panoramic views at the peak of the ridge are simply breathtaking. Stop for a breather to enjoy the three-level waterfall that can be seen cascading down the mountain. It's located on the Cumberland Trail alongside I-75.
Big South Fork Twin Arches – Oneida
Hike from Pickett Park Highway in Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area to these double sandstone arches. Follow the trail to Charit Creek Lodge, that's located on the six-mile loop, and cool off in the rocky stream.
Montgomery Bell State Park – Burns
Natural beauty and family hikes are celebrated at this state park. Various hiking options are open to every guest. The longest hiking trail is 10.4 miles and is destined as an overnight trail. Choose a short day hike ranging from 0.2-mile hikes to 1.7-mile hikes that bring you up close to Made in Tennessee natural beauty.
Johnsonville State Historic Park – New Johnsonville
The 2,000-acre park is a wealth of history as it commemorates the Johnsonville Depot, the Battle of Johnsonville and the historic town of the area that was established 1864-1944. Explore these historic treasures on the 8-mile Historic Johnsonville Trail as you embark on natural surfaces. Travel along the 2-mile Civil War Forts Trail or the 0.5-mile African-American Cemetery Loop Trail.
Pinson Mounds State Archeological Park – Pinson
It's more than 1,200 acres and is home to at least 15 Native American mounds that were used as both burial and ceremonial locations. Hiking trails give guests access to the mounds. Choose from the 2-mile Mounds Great Outer Loop Trail along a paved surface, or any of the natural surface hikes: Nature Trail, Earthworks Trail and Hudson Branch Trail.
Fort Pillow State Park – Henning
The longest trail in this state park is the moderate 9-mile hike along the Red Trail. Learn the history of the area thanks to the well-preserved breastworks and reconstructed inner fort. Transport through history as the park offers Civil War artifact viewings along with a cannon and interpretive displays related to the Fort.
