The Magical Place In Tennessee Where You Can View The Big South Fork National River
By Meghan Kraft|Published April 19, 2022
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Meghan Kraft
Author
Meghan Kraft loves to travel the world, but she makes her home right here in Nashville, Tennessee. She holds a degree in English, and has worked in the digital marketing realm with companies such as Apartments.com, USA Today and HarperCollins Publishing.
There is nothing quite like the majesty of a natural view. The clusters of trees, the rumble of water as it rushes over rocks, the chirrup of birds in the air. When you pair a hike with a view, it’s as if the natural world has presented a gift upon completion. A participatory trophy from Mother Nature herself. Honey Creek Loop is known for its difficulty, but the Honey Creek Overlook that is accessible from the trail makes the hard work worth it.
The Honey Creek Overlook is located in the famed Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area near Rugby, Tennessee. You can access the stunning spot by way of the Honey Creek Loop Trail, but keep in mind that though it is only 4.2 miles in its entirety, the trail is considered quite difficult.
Honey Creek Loop Trail is known as the most difficult hiking trail in the Big South Fork, so be prepared to spend four to six hours on the trek. There are geological features like sheer cliff faces and caves along the route, and the hidden waterfalls add an element of whimsy.
The trail is roughly 50 miles from the middle of downtown Nashville. Dogs are allowed, but the trail may be difficult for them to traverse, especially if they are older. Keep in mind that there is also a ladder you will need to climb to get to the overlook.
A steep metal ladder (watch your step if it’s icy!) provides access to the famed Honey Creek Overlook, and once you reach the summit you will find that the views are truly breathtaking. The view is beautiful no matter the time of year, but expect lush greenery during the warmer months and a swathe of color in autumn. You can also drive to the overlook if the ladder presents a problem.
As celebrated as the overlook itself may be, the Honey Creek Loop is also a welcome challenge to outdoorsy folk. Crawl over rocks, make your way through dense woods, and follow the sound of water to hidden pools and overlooks. From the safety of the marked trail, of course!
There are blazes along the trail that will help you make your way to stream crossings and rocky pathways. Keep an eye out for that trail! You want to make sure you stay on it and safe, and nature has a way of erasing human footsteps with the quiet passage of time.