Are you a semi-hiker? Someone that loves to get out in the gorgeous outdoors, but isn’t married to the idea of spending miles and miles alone with your pack? Whether you’d rather have a shorter hike or just something easier with the kids, we’ve got just the list for you – these are some of the best hikes in Tennessee that are short and sweet but don’t compromise on scenery.

1. Clingman's Dome - 1.3 miles
Clingmans Dome Tennessee High Point, Sevier County, TN 37738, USA
carlosalvarez / Getty Images
As the highest point in Great Smoky Mountain National Park, this is one of the best hikes in Tennessee where you can experience panoramic views of the mountains without too much of a strenuous hike. Learn more about visiting Clingman's Dome.

2. Laurel Falls - 2.6 miles
Dan Reynolds Photography/Moment Collections via Getty Images
This stunning little hiking trail in Tennessee takes you on a snarled two and a half mile hike through the Smoky Mountains that ends with this stunning 80-foot waterfall. While it may not be one of the most kid-friendly trails in Tennessee, it sure is one of the most scenic!
3. Azalea Springs Day Loop - 2.6 miles
Big Hill Pond State Park, 1435 John Howell Rd, Pocahontas, TN 38061, USA
Bill Automata / Flickr
Check out Bill Hill Pond State Park if you're ready for a couple of miles in heaven. It's not too strenuous, and your kids will love it.
4. Ridge Top Trail - .5 miles
Burgess Falls State Park, 4000 Burgess Falls Dr, Sparta, TN 38583, USA
James Tatum / Flickr
Burgess Falls State Park is perfect for a tiny hike that truly packs a punch as far as scenery goes. There are four waterfalls within this state park, so carve out some extra time to see them all.

5. Cedar Forest Trail - 2 miles
Cedar Forest Trail, Tennessee 37090, USA
shannon whittington / AllTrails
Cedars of Lebanon is located a solid half hour outside of Nashville and both the views and shortness of the hike will make you feel like you're in heaven. Learn more about hiking Cedar Forest Trail.
6. Tree Identification Trail - .3 miles
Big Cypress Tree State Park, 295 Big Cypress Rd, Greenfield, TN 38230, USA
sean garrett / Google Reviews
If you're visiting Big Cypress Tree State Park, you'll want to take the tiny ones on their short little identification walk. This kid-friendly hike around Tennessee has several informational signs along the way, so you learn as you look!

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7. Stinging Fork Segment - 3 miles
Stinging Fork Falls State Natural Area, Tennessee 37381, USA
Tara Treat / AllTrails
Hike the Cumberland Trail for a couple of miles and you'll be more than ready to head home and remember the beautiful scenery with fondness.
8. Spring Creek Trail - .5 miles
Mousetail Landing Road, Mousetail Landing Rd, Tennessee 37096, USA
Michael Hicks / Flickr
There is supposed to be a town under the water at Mousetail Landing, but we're just focused on the gorgeous hiking opportunities. At less than a mile long, this certainly is one of the best hikes in Tennessee that comes with incredible views like this.
9. Cub Lake - 4 miles
Natchez Trace State Park, 22390 Natchez Trace Rd, Wildersville, TN 38351, USA
TNStateParks
Natchez Trace State Park packs a punch with our longest hike on the list, but even at four miles, it's an easy trail in Tennessee to tackle when you've got a little extra time on your hands.
10. Scenic Trail - 3 miles
Mousetail Landing Road, Mousetail Landing Rd, Tennessee 37096, USA
Unknown / Wiki
We love Mousetail Landing for its plethora of hiking options for every level. This lovely state park has some of the most kid-friendly hikes around Tennessee, so bring the youngest nature lovers out for a day of adventure.
11. Creech Hollow Trail - 1.7 miles
Montgomery Bell State Park. Group Camp 1, Camp I Rd, Burns, TN 37029, USA
TNStateParks
Montgomery Bell State Park offers up Creech Hollow Trail, marked with fine greenery and waterways easily make this one of the best hikes in Tennessee for the outdoor explorer.

12. Gossett Tract Trail - 2 miles
Harpeth River State Park - Hidden Lake, 7851 McCrory Ln, Nashville, TN 37221, USA
TNStateParks
One of the more kid-friendly hikes around Tennessee, take a visit to Harpeth River State Park and this two mile trail and all its Tennessee beauty will be waiting for you.
13. Henry Hollow Loop - 2 miles
Henry Hollow Loop Trail, Nashville, TN 37080, USA
Chris Rowe / AllTrails
Beaman Park Natural Area is a bit out of the way, but a beautiful oasis if you live in a Middle Tennessee city and want to explore the 1,700+ acres of enchanted, raw beauty of Tennessee. Learn more about hiking Henry Hollow Loop.

Check out the Tennessee State and National Parks website for comprehensive answers to safety questions, necessary supplies, and parking options. And don’t forget to download AllTrails+ for expert tips, interactive trail maps, and much more! Once you get a taste of the trails, you might want to spend a few days camping… check out some of our favorite camping spots in Tennessee and start planning your epic outdoor adventure today.

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More to Explore

easy hikes in Tennessee

Jackie Ann | July 12, 2022

What are the best family-friendly hikes in Tennessee?

Some family-friendly hikes in Tennessee include:

  • Blue Hole Falls
  • Ozone Falls
  • Sill Branch Falls
  • Sugarland Valley Nature Trail
  • Cane Creek Falls and Suspension Bridge

 

Wondering to yourself, “Are there any hiking trails near me that are kid-friendly?” Well, yes! There are plenty of kid-friendly hiking trails in Tennessee that are just waiting for the youngest of nature lovers to explore, and one of our favorites is the Stone Door Trail. This popular trail clocks in at just shy of two miles, is paved, and is stroller-friendly (a huge perk). You’ll gain a bit of elevation (170 feet) as you hike the trail, and your exertions will be rewarded when you see the incredible views at the top.

What are the best hikes with a view in Tennessee?

Some of the most scenic hikes in Tennessee include:

  • Gorge Overlook and Woodland Traila at Fall Creek Falls State Park
  • White House Cliffs Trail at Rocky Fork State Park
  • Point Trail at Obed Wild & Scenic River
  • Starr Mountain at Hiwassee/Ocoee State Park

 

Whether you’re looking for a waterfront view or a mountaintop view, Tennessee is home to some of the most scenic hiking trails in the nation. The 90-foot cascade at Bald River Falls should be at the top of your hiking list since it’s not only one of the best hikes in Tennessee, but it’s also one of the most accessible. For the more experienced hiker, a trek up the Fiery Gizzard Trail is a must. Veteran hikers can expect a nearly 10-mile trail filled with streams that lead to stunning waterfalls and unparalleled views of the mountains and valleys below.

Can I hike to abandoned places in Tennessee?

We love trails that lead to scenic overlooks and gushing waterfalls, but there’s something about hiking to an abandoned place in Tennessee that just brings out the explorer in us. Tucked away in the Appalachian Ridge and Valley Range, Norris Lake State Park is home to a hauntingly beautiful trail that will take you to the site of a deadly ambush as well as the Langley Cemetery, an abandoned cemetery seemingly in the middle of nowhere.

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