Tennessee

Hidden Passage

Trail Map: The Hike: Northeastern Tennessee has some amazing sandstone rock formations. This hike in Pickett CCC Memorial State Park gives hikers a close-up view of some incredible geology—sandstone bluffs, caverns, and a small stone arch. From the parking area, follow the green blazes. In .5 miles, reach the junction of the loop, we opted […]

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Big Hump & Little Hump Balds

Trail Map: The Hike: This Appalachian Trail section hike reaches two bald summits—Little Hump and Big Hump. The road to the trailhead is gravel/dirt for the last two miles or so. There are some deep ruts and washed-out areas. Our AWD Subaru had no problem. The parking area is on the left, a gate blocks

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Big Firescald Knob

Trail Map: The Hike: This section hike on the Appalachian Trail straddles the North Carolina/Tennessee state line. The open ridge provides spectacular views of both states. The road to the trailhead is paved for a few miles and then turns to gravel/dirt. We had no problems with our AWD Subaru and it should be passable

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Beauty Spot

Trail Map: The Hike: Beauty Spot is a popular local destination. The Appalachian Trail passes through this bald summit. However, most visitors drive here over a bumpy dirt road. The day of our hike, the weather wasn’t cooperating. The forecast called for clouds and scattered showers much of the day. We waited for the heavy

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Charlies Bunion

Trail Map: The Hike: This hike is said to have some of the best views in Great Smoky Mountains NP. We certainly understand why it is so popular. This eight-mile round trip hike on the Appalachian Trail has an option one mile extension on the Jump Off Trail with even more amazing views. Dogs are

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Twin Arches and Slave Falls Loop

Highlights: sandstone arches, waterfall, cliffs, forest, wildlife Distance:  14.1 mile loop Elevation change:  2,035 feet Difficulty level: Difficult Trailhead Parking: Twin Arches Road, Great South Fork National Recreation Area, Jamestown TN; see link below for more information.   Website: National Park Service Beer Pairings: Wiseacre Brewing Company, Tiny Bomb pilsner & Ananda IPA The Hike:

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Grassy Ridge Bald, Jane Bald, and Round Bald on the AT

Highlights: Three bald summits, spectacular views, blaze orange azaleas, Roan Highlands, Appalachian Trail Distance:  4.9 mile out and back Elevation change:  1,030 feet Difficulty level: Moderate Trailhead Parking: Carver’s Gap at the NC/TN state line; Tennessee route 143 and North Carolina route 261 Website: AllTrails Beer Pairings: Sierra Nevada Pale Ale & Dankful IPA The

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