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The Best Winter Hikes in Northeast Tennessee

Winter hiking can offer a completely different outdoor experience to a once-familiar setting. Hitting the trails during the winter months in Northeast Tennessee can mean no bugs, mild temperatures, fewer crowds and incredible, frosty views. Here are a few of our top hikes that will make you say goodbye to those winter blues and cabin fever.

Lakeside Trail – Steele Creek Park

This trail, located inside Steele Creek Park in Bristol, is perfect for the whole family. Lakeside Trail is flat, wide and well-traveled, making it great for a quick hike or for children. During the hike, you walk along the Steele Creek Park Lake and get to see the Lakeside Waterfall.

Roan Mountain State Park

Roan Mountain State Park is one of the most popular state parks in Tennessee. The park features 12 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy and short to hard, including the edge of the Appalachian Trail. A trip to the park is perfect for adventurers or the whole family, with cabins, camping spots and park-offered events.

Margarette Falls Trail

Margarette Falls is one of the most iconic in waterfalls in Northeast Tennessee. This short but scenic trail twists and turns with the creek to guide you to the beautiful, 60 ft waterfall. This in-and-out trail is considered moderate but is worth it for the of not only the falls, but the gorgeous view you will see along the way.

Buffalo Mountain Park

Buffalo Mountain Park, in Johnson City, is a park nestled at the base of Buffalo Mountain. The park has six hiking trails with incredible views of Johnson City and Unicoi. You can pick a short and simple trail to lookout or you can tackle their White Rock loop and explore the whole park.

Doe Mountain Recreation Area

Doe Mountain Recreation Area in Mountain City includes ATV, hiking and bike trails and there is even a horseback riding trail. The most popular trail is the Doe Mountain Fire Tower trail, which is considered challenging, or you can try the Chimney Rock Overlook trail that is a short hike with incredible views.

Bays Mountain Park

Bays Mountain Park  in Kingsport features more than 39 miles of beautiful hiking trails that cover most of the 3,500 acre park. Take a relaxing stroll around the lake or, for the more adventurous, make the trek up to the fire tower. No matter where you go, you’re sure to encounter natural wildlife and amazing scenery.

Unaka Mountain Beauty Spot

On the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, tucked in the Unaka Mountains, is one of the most incredible views you can find in the Appalachian Mountains. It offers a panoramic view of the mountains and is accessible year round. The hike is great for beginners, and perfect for photographers.

Remember to leave no trace, so adventures can last a lifetime. Find out more about our efforts and Leaders for a Litter Free Tennessee.

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