Tennessee is full of surprises, and some of its best ones are hiding deep in the woods.
We’re talking quiet trails with mossy trees, secret waterfalls, crumbling old cabins, and even places that look like something out of a fantasy movie.
These aren’t the big, crowded hikes everyone knows about, but they’re the kind of spots you stumble on and never forget.
If you’ve ever wanted to wander through a forest that feels a little magical (and a lot less busy), then these Tennessee forest trails need to be on your bucket list.
1. Twin Creeks Trail
Twin Creeks Trail is a peaceful, easy 4.5-mile round trip path in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, just outside Gatlinburg.
It winds through a shady forest filled with wildflowers, tall trees, and the gentle sound of Le Conte Creek bubbling alongside you.
Along the way, you’ll pass the Twin Creeks Science Center, and if you take the short side loop, you can explore the historic Noah ‘Bud’ Ogle cabin, barn, and tub mill.
This trail is perfect if you want something quiet and easy, with lots of spots to stop, sit, and soak up that forest magic.
2. Little River Trail
This 4.9-mile trail follows an old railroad path beside the Little River, with views of rushing water, mossy boulders, and sparkling mini waterfalls.
If you want forest views and a river show, the Little River Trail in Elkmont is where you want to be.
You’ll walk past old stone chimneys and the remains of the Elkmont ghost town, where summer cabins from the 1920s are slowly being taken back by the woods.
The mix of river sounds, history, and forest makes this one feel like you’re wandering through a secret, moss-covered storybook.
3. Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest
Just when you think the trees can’t get any taller, the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest shows up with some absolute giants.
Located near the Tennessee–North Carolina border, this loop trail is just 2 miles long but packed with towering poplars over 400 years old and up to 20 feet around.
It’s quiet, shady, and feels totally untouched, like stepping into an ancient forest where time forgot to keep moving.
Keep your eyes peeled for mushrooms, moss-covered roots, and twisted vines that make the whole place feel straight out of a fantasy movie.
4. Cedars of Lebanon State Park
Next up is Cedars of Lebanon State Park, where you’ll see twisty cedar glades that feel more like a hidden desert than a forest.
It’s got 10 miles of hiking trails, but the 4.2-mile Hidden Springs Trail is a standout loop, winding through rocky paths, limestone sinkholes, as well as glades and cedar woodlands.
You might even spot the Park’s resident Zebra named Ed.
The ecosystem here is very unique, and there are several rare species of plants that grow here but nowhere else in the world.
5. Fiery Gizzard Trail
If you’re up for a wild hike with some serious wow-factor, the Fiery Gizzard Trail in South Cumberland State Park is the one to beat.
This beast stretches 12.5 to 13 miles one way, with rocky climbs, waterfalls, swimming holes, and jaw-dropping overlooks like Raven Point.
You’ll scramble over boulders, cross creeks, and walk under towering hemlocks that make you feel tiny.
It’s tough, but every step comes with views so good, you’ll forget your legs are screaming.
6. Baskins Creek Trail
Baskins Creek Trail is way more chill than Fiery Gizzard, but still brings the magic with a hidden waterfall and some major forest charm.
This 2.7-mile trail (about 5.4 miles round trip) near Gatlinburg takes you through quiet woods and ends with a 40-foot, two-tiered waterfall (Baskins Creek Falls).
You’ll also pass an old cemetery along the way, which adds a little spooky fun to the peaceful trail.
It’s a low-key hike with just enough adventure to keep things interesting, especially if you’re into secret waterfalls and shady woodland paths.
7. Meeman‑Shelby Forest State Park
Next up is Meeman‑Shelby Forest State Park near Memphis, where the forest feels endless and the trails go on forever.
The Woodland Trail is a favorite here, a peaceful 3.5-mile loop through hardwood forest packed with huge oaks, diverse plants and wildflowers, and maybe even a deer or two if you’re lucky.
There’s also Poplar Tree Lake, a 125-acre lake perfect for paddle breaks or just sitting by the shore with a snack.
It’s got that quiet, dreamy vibe that makes you want to slow down, breathe deep, and stay a little longer than you planned.
8. Abrams Falls Trail
If you’re chasing waterfalls, Abrams Falls Trail in Cades Cove is a must.
This 5-mile round-trip hike follows a shady path along Abrams Creek and ends with a powerful 25-foot waterfall that thunders into a deep, blue pool.
The trail is full of river views, rhododendron tunnels, and enough roots and rocks to keep things fun without being too intense.
It’s one of the most popular hikes in the Smokies for a reason.
It’s easy to love and hard to forget.
9. Sewanee Natural Bridge
Last but definitely not least, the Sewanee Natural Bridge Trail is short, sweet, and totally jaw-dropping.
It’s only 0.2 miles long, but it leads straight to a 25-foot high natural sandstone arch that looks like something you’d find in a fantasy novel.
There’s also a lookout with sweeping views of Lost Cove, plus mossy cliffs and shady spots that are perfect for just hanging out.
If you want a big reward with minimal effort, then this trail is your go-to.
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