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Hike Old Stone Fort Trail

661-799 Stone Fort Drive, Tennessee

5.0/5
based on 1 reviews

Details

Distance

2.9 miles

Elevation Gain

265 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Katie Y

A perfect short day hike at this state park allows you to see three different waterfalls and has a couple adjoining trails to hop on!

The main hiking trail at this small state park follows the wall of Old Stone Fort which was used by the Native Americans as a ceremonial gathering place. The trail threads through dramatic scenery where you can see the original entrance of the fort which was designed to face the exact spot on the horizon where the sun rises during the summer solstice. Visitors can learn about the Old Stone Fort on this hike with twelve interpretive panels along this trail as well as enjoying the areas graceful waterfalls.

You'll park at the main parking lot found at my location point above. You'll first walk past the museum, where there is a ranger during business hours to talk about the park. Stop in there to learn more about some of the informative historical relics!

The trail starts directly beside the museum. It will wind around the park in a loop, following the Little Duck River below you. You'll start out at higher level than the river, but you'll gradually be brought back to ground level halfway through. You'll be circling around the flat prairie-like field at the center of the park. There are benches there and a small path, where you can walk over to those areas. Staying on the trail will lead you by many waterfalls and cascades, including Bluehole Falls, Big Falls, and Little Falls.  There are two adjoining trails that you can break off on and hike. They will start and end at a part of the main Old Stone Fort Trail. Follow the white blazes for the main trail. Yellow and Red are the adjoining short trails. Keep an eye out for river otters and beautiful wildflowers during the spring!

If you're camping at this park, just walk past the parking lot and across the blue/aqua bridge. The campgrounds are directly past the bridge following the road. 

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Features

Fitness
Chillin
Camping
Photography
Running
Yoga
Hiking
Bathrooms
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
Groups
Picnic Area
River
Romantic
Scenic
Waterfall
Wildflowers
Wildlife

Reviews

Enjoyed the hike along the river. Stopping at the museum is a must to get the full scope of the history here. I really enjoyed it!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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