The Justin P. Wilson Cumberland Trail State Park Has Been Called The Best State Park In Tennessee

Tennessee is home to 56 state parks, and you’ll find everything from stunning waterfalls to backcountry trails and beautifully tranquil lakes located across the state. Family memories are made over campfires at one of the thousands of campsites, and many a new hiker is born on the rugged trails of Tennessee. The Justin P. Wilson Cumberland Trail State Park is one of the most oft-forgotten state parks, but it is truly one of the most beautiful. It’s a hidden gem, a memory maker, and a wonderfully protected space that’s great for the whole family. Learn more about it below!

Justin P. Wilson Cumberland Trail State Park Official Website

The Cumberland Trail was originally explored and mapped by Daniel Boone. In 1769 he first explored the area, but in 1775 he blazed a full 200-mile trail that he then called "Boone's Path" or "Boone's Road."

Cumberland Trail State Scenic Trail - Facebook

Nowadays, the Cumberland Trail is slated to be more than 300 miles long from its beginning at the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park in Kentucky to the Chattanooga area Chickamauga-Chattanooga National Military Park.

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Cumberland Trail State Scenic Trail - Facebook

Along the trail, you'll find the Justin P. Wilson Cumberland Trail State Park. It is the only linear park in Tennessee and became the state's 53rd state park upon its inception in 1998.

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Cumberland Trail State Scenic Trail - Facebook

The park stretches through 11 different counties and has been known and named for Justin P. Wilson and his work on the Cumberland Trail since 2002.

Cumberland Trail State Scenic Trail - Facebook

The topography is truly stunning, with a series of rugged ridges and gorges that stud the famed Cumberland Plateau. The park has become highly popular with hikers and nature seekers and is open every day of the year during daylight hours.

Cumberland Trails Conference - Facebook

Another fun fact: the Cumberland Trail actually stretches through two time zones, which may make your hiking time a little wonky. The state park is meant to contain the core corridor of the Cumberland Trail and has been designed by hikers for hikers as a backcountry hiking trail. It's actually considered more rural than the famous Appalachian Trail.

Cumberland Trails Conference - Facebook

If you're planning a visit, we'd recommend the easy Falling Water Falls Trail or the more challenging Ozone Falls Segment of the Cumberland Trail. Both are found tucked within the Justin P. Wilson Cumberland Trail State Park, and they're truly an adventure to be had.

A beautiful place that’s perfect for a wonderful vacation or afternoon adventure. You can learn more about the Justin P. Wilson Cumberland Trail Park here on its official website or Facebook page.

You can continue to explore all the fun of Tennessee with a carriage ride through Cades Cove.