EXPLORING THE BEST TRAILS IN THE UC

The brisk chill of fall is in the air as leaves blow gently across our path and we happily feel content inside our favorite cozy sweater. The smell of campfire cookouts, toasted marshmallows, and hot cocoa make frequent visits as we welcome them like long-lost friends. As we embrace these cooler temperatures, it creates the perfect season for hiking your favorite trails or exploring a few new ones. Dust off that walking stick, lace up your hiking boots, and grab a thermos as we take you on an unforgettable adventure to three of our favorite Upper Cumberland hiking trails.

STOP ONE

Burgess Falls State Park offers access to stunning natural beauty through easy-to-moderate hiking paths with handicap-accessible overlooks that offer a majestic view of awe-inspiring waterfall sights and sounds. The 1.5-mile hiking trail leads you on a journey straight to the Great Falls that tower more than 130 feet in the air. The Burgess hike includes a natural staircase that is quite steep, so keep this in mind if you have issues with stairs. The falls, however, can also be seen by following the signs to the designated overlook which is accessible to anyone, making this a great destination for families and individuals of all ages and abilities. Bonus: the trail is pet-friendly if your furry friend is on a leash.

STOP TWO

Bee Rock in Monterey, TN is a charming hiking destination with mountain views as your reward. While there, you will see breathtaking vistas and tranquil beauty that beckon adventurers seeking a peaceful escape. This trail offers a .3 mile round trip hike (not handicap-accessible) that winds its way through the lush Tennessee woods. The hike is easy-to-moderate, making it a favorite of hikers with various experience levels. As you reach the peak of your journey, you approach the cliff’s edge. Here, the world suddenly opens to reveal a jaw-dropping view of the Caney Fork River winding its way through the valley below. The magnificent vista makes for an extraordinary photo opportunity to remember your day.  

STOP THREE

Welch’s Point in Sparta, Tennessee, often affectionately referred to as “Sunset Rock,” provides a front-row seat to one of the most mesmerizing natural spectacles – a Tennessee Sunset. This payoff is available to you after a short and relatively easy hike of .7 miles which is great for both families and adventurers alike. The trailhead twists through a scenic forest that has a gradual ascent toward the breathtaking view at the pinnacle. If you time your journey correctly, you can arrive just before the sun begins to dip below the horizon. At this point, you will find the sky painted with a palette of pink, orange, and purple as the trees bow down to the light breeze and say goodbye to another enchanting day.  

TIPS FOR HIKES

Timing is everything: If you want to catch a sunrise or sunset, allow enough time for breaks and sightseeing along the way. Pack smart: Bring plenty of water, your camera, and a blanket or camp chair for comfort. Respect nature: Stay on marked trails and honor the native plants and wildlife. Safety first: If you are close to the edge of a bluff or overlook, always exercise caution, and keep a safe distance from the edge, especially if you have small children. 

For more information on hiking trails across Tennessee, go to: tnstateparks.com or for local waterfalls and hiking trails near Cookeville, go to: VisitCookevilleTN.com 

– by Shan Stout, Director of Tourism, Cookeville-Putnam County Visitors Bureau, photos by Tessa Davis