Enjoy A Secluded Stroll On A Little-Known Path Along This Iconic Tennessee River
By Chris Dodge|Published February 20, 2024
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Chris Dodge
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My name is Chris Dodge and I live right here in the great state of Tennessee. My family and I are full adventurers filled with passion to see the amazing things our state has to offer. We are avid hikers and have explored many different places in Tennessee and beyond but we are always thankful to be living in such a glorious state.
Of course, one of the most iconic rivers in Tennessee is the mighty Mississippi. When I first laid eyes on this monumental sight, it was quite impressive. There is so much history tied up in this river that seeing it for yourself is a humbling experience. If you are anything like me, the best way to experience nature is to lace up your hiking boots and hit the trail. The Chickasaw Bluff Trail is a wonderful place where you can get out and experience history and incredible views of the Mississippi in one perfect Tennessee hike.
Today's hiking adventure brings us to Pillow Fort Historic Park. Other than a great-sounding place to lay down for a nap, this historical spot holds within it some fascinating Civil War history. The steep bluffs made for a strategic location along the Mississippi River for a fort. In the park, you’ll also find a museum with many Civil War artifacts.
The trail itself is a well-marked and well-traveled 4.5-mile jaunt through the woods. The elevation gain is just under 500 feet and you will experience most of that at the beginning of the hike. There are plenty of hills leading hikers up and down as the trial proceeds.
The real reward of the hike is towards the trail's end when you get the grand view of the river. High on top of the cliffsides you will overlook the massive expanse of this mighty body of water.
The trail is a great place to find solitude, as not many people traverse this hike. No matter the time of the year, it's good to get outside and witness the grandeur of the mighty Mississippi.
Also on the trail, you will find an old graveyard. These echoes of the past are a fascinating find seemingly in the middle of the woods. The old stones call back to lives lived long ago. It is interesting to me to view the headstones of people who have been buried for such a long time, so this is a must-see for this hike.
The trail continues on past the graveyard, but most people turn back at this point for the return trek to the parking lot.
If you are looking for a trail with history, views, and solitude then the Chickasaw Bluff Trail is the place for you. Located only about 40 miles from Memphis in the Fort Pillow State Historic Park. To keep track of your location on the trail while you hike download the AllTrails app and pull up the Chickasaw Bluff Trail map. I always find it incredibly helpful information to have during every hike we go on!
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