Unicoi County is one of the best places to hike in Northeast Tennessee. The Appalachian Mountains, national forest, and state park here provide stunning backdrops for the local hiking trails and greenways in the area, many of which offer stunning views. Hikes can range from short trails perfect for the whole family to incredible day hikes or multi-day backpacking trips. These are some of the best hikes in Unicoi County.
Featured Trails in Unicoi County, Tennessee:
Appalachian Trail
Length: varies
The Appalachian National Scenic Trail, known simply as the Appalachian Trail or the A.T., is a 2,200-mile trail from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine. The A.T. runs through Unicoi County and is a perfect way to enjoy anything from a short day-hike to a breathtaking backpacking trip or epic thru-hike. The portion of the A.T. that winds through this area is incredibly scenic and considered one of the best sections of A.T. by many past thru-hikers.
One of the best places to access the A.T. is right on the property of USA Raft Adventure Resort. Another A.T. hike well known throughout this region is the 10.5 mile trek to Unaka Mountain’s Beauty Spot, which is known for its stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The trailhead is extremely accessible and the hike is worthwhile. This hike would be considered intermediate to advanced. Bring a source of water and enjoy rhododendron tunnels on the way up; or shuttle to Beauty Spot and enjoy a downhill jaunt that is still breathtaking and heart-pounding. You can connect your hike to USA Raft and enjoy a local pint of beer and put your feet in the river for a relaxing end to a showstopper of a day.
Pinnacle Mountain Fire Tower Trail
Length: 9.9 miles
For another hike with a view, Pinnacle Mountain Trail takes you up to a rehabilitated fire tower that offers a beautiful unobstructed 360 degree look at the surrounding mountains. This hike heads up Buffalo Mountain and has about 2,000 feet of elevation gain. The gradual slope of the trail, however, often makes this an attainable hike for those who enjoy logging longer miles but who would typically struggle with a steep grade. This is a beginners hike but plenty of water is still needed. The trail is multi-use and frequented by mountain bikers too. Headphones are not recommended; unplug and enjoy Mother Nature’s soundtrack.
Lamar Alexander Rocky Fork State Park
Length: varies
This newer state park offers miles of trails, higher mountain elevations, pristine streams, hardwood forests, and rock outcrops – the natural beauty is undeniable! These 2,076 acres are surrounded on three sides by the Cherokee National Forest. If you’re also interested in trying out rock climbing, you can enjoy guided climbing trips on pristine quartzite sandstone rock right here in the park. Most of these trails will be intermediate to advanced. Make sure to properly prepare and have a contingency plan in the event of an emergency. This park is in a remote part of Northeast Tennessee and cellular service is not reliable.
Cherokee National Forest
Length: varies
Cherokee National Forest is an amazing place to enjoy outdoor recreation and hiking in Unicoi County. Offering a wide variety of trail difficulties from easy to advanced, as well as more than 600 miles of trails, you can easily pick a beautiful hike that is well suited for you. Choose a trail to your liking but know the more beginner trails will have higher foot traffic. The more advanced trails will not have cellular service in the remote areas of the park. Plan accordingly to your experience, comfort, and physical levels.
Rock Creek Recreation Area
Length: varies
Located three miles east of Erwin, Tennessee, Rock Creek Recreation Area is named for the creek that runs along this developed recreation site. Here you’ll find picnic facilities, a stream-fed swimming pool and a bathhouse, and camping facilities. Insulated from the summer heat and sun by cool air flowing down from Unaka Mountain and shaded by a deep forest of oaks, maples, hemlocks, and rhododendron, this is an excellent place for tent and RV camping. The short but rugged hiking trail will take you into Unaka Mountain Wilderness, and you’ll also find an easy bike trail and short, easy nature trails in this area.
Erwin Linear Trail
Length: 4 miles
For an urban trail in the area, the Erwin Linear Trail is an excellent choice. This paved, 4 mile flat path parallels the Nolichucky River. Along your way, you’ll pass fishing docks and boardwalks while enjoying a natural oasis of marshes, wetlands, and woods. This is a multi-use trail with access to the town of Erwin.
Martin’s Creek Falls
Length: 2 miles
Another local trail that families with small children might enjoy is Martin’s Creek Falls. A short, moderate trail, this hike can be busy on Summer weekends and there is only parking for about five vehicles at the trailhead, so it can be helpful to get an early start. The waterfall is lovely, although not huge. You’ll find the trailhead for this hike east of Unicoi High School up Martin’s Creek Rd.
