The best walks and hikes in Marion County
4.7
(56)
1,081
hikers
19
hikes
Hikes in Marion County explore the landscape of the Cumberland Plateau in southeastern Tennessee. The region is characterized by dense hardwood forests, deep gorges, and numerous waterfalls. Trails often follow creek beds and lead to scenic overlooks and rock formations, offering a variety of terrain for hikers.
Best hiking trails in Marion County
- The most popular hiking route is Foster Falls via Climbers Loop Trail — South Cumberland State Park, a 2.3 mile (3.7 km) trail that takes about…
Last updated: April 26, 2026
3
hikers
4.61km
01:39
70m
190m
Hike the 2.9-mile Snoopers Rock Trail in Prentice Cooper State Forest for panoramic views of the Tennessee River Gorge.
2.29km
00:49
200m
10m
Hike the easy 1.4-mile Blowing Wind Falls via Ritchie Hollow Trail, gaining 640 feet to see the beautiful Blowing Wind Falls in 48 minutes.
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2.94km
01:18
200m
120m
Hike the moderate CT - Edwards Point trail for panoramic views of the Tennessee River Gorge and diverse terrain in Prentice Cooper State For
4.89km
01:25
120m
70m
Hike the moderate 3.0-mile Cumberland Trail: Muddy Branch to Natural Bridge, gaining 380 feet to viewpoints like Snooper's Rock.
608m
00:10
0m
20m
Hike the easy 0.4-mile Denny Cove Overlook Trail in Fiery Gizzard State Park for panoramic views of Denny Cove and the surrounding wildernes
56.6km
18:59
1,270m
1,330m
Hike the difficult 35.2-mile Pot Point and Mullens Cove Loop in Prentice Cooper State Forest, featuring stunning Tennessee River Gorge views
5.0
(4)
19
hikers
3.67km
01:04
90m
90m
Hike the easy 2.3 mile Climbers Loop Trail in South Cumberland State Park to experience the beauty of Foster Falls.
5.0
(4)
16
hikers
14.3km
04:06
350m
340m
Hike the moderate Mullens Cove Loop in Prentice Cooper State Forest, offering panoramic views of the Tennessee River Gorge and Snooper's Roc
5.0
(1)
19
hikers
4.49km
01:19
130m
130m
Hike the easy 2.8-mile Denny Cove Waterfall Trail to discover the impressive 70-foot Denny Falls in South Cumberland State Park.
5.0
(1)
7
hikers
18.4km
05:04
320m
320m
Hike the difficult 11.4-mile Raccoon Mountain Reservoir loop in Chattanooga, Tennessee, for diverse terrain and scenic views.
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Popular around Marion County
Hiking in Prentice Cooper State Forest
Hiking in Prentice Cooper State Park
Hiking around Whiteside
Hiking around Powells Crossroads
Hiking around Monteagle
Cumberland Trail — A Walk Through Tennessee’s Hidden Wilderness
Hiking Fiery Gizzard Trail — Gorge-ous views and water falls
Running Trails in Marion County
MTB Trails in Marion County
Road Cycling Routes in Marion County
Tips from the Community
The Climbers Loop Trail is an alternate path to the Fiery Gizzard Trail near Foster Falls. It gets its name from the multitude of climbing and scrambling routes in the area, but the trail is worth doing even if you aren't a climber. You travel under tall rock walls and cliffs with sporadic views over the valley.
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Foster Falls is a 60-foot tall cascade and is the main attraction within South Cumberland State Park. The recreational area around the falls is full of campsites, camping amenities, and a couple different trails popular for hiking and trail running.
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The Climbers Loop Trail is an alternate path to the Fiery Gizzard Trail near Foster Falls. It gets its name from the multitude of climbing and scrambling routes in the area, but the trail is worth doing even if you aren't a climber. You travel under tall rock walls and cliffs with sporadic views over the valley.
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Foster Falls is a 60-foot tall cascade and is the main attraction within South Cumberland State Park. The recreational area around the falls is full of campsites and camping amenities and a couple different trails popular for hiking and trail running.
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The Denny Cove area is most well-known for its ample rock-climbing opportunities, but it also has several miles of trails that lead to an awesome waterfall. The Denny Cove Waterfall is a large, towering cascade of roughly 60 feet that can be viewed from a few different angles. The trail to the falls is fairly technical, so don't expect to set any PRs here!
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The Denny Cove area is most well-known for its ample rock-climbing opportunities, but it also has several miles of trails that lead to an awesome waterfall. The Denny Cove Waterfall is a large, towering cascade of roughly 60 feet that can be viewed from a few different angles.
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Snooper's Rock is a cool overlook on the Cumberland Trail. It has expansive views of the Tennessee River, Chattanooga, and the distant Lookout Mountain. The overlook is actually a few hundred feet past the end of this pull-off. You'll have to walk your bike, but this overlook is worth the walk (it's pretty much the pinnacle of the ride).
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Blowing Wind Falls is a waterfall not far off the side of Ritchie Hollow Trail. The falls are seasonal (they are much stronger in the spring and early summer months), and they don't draw the crowds that some of the other features in the area attract.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many hiking trails in Marion County?
Yes, you can explore over 18 hiking trails in Marion County. The trails range from easy walks to challenging multi-day treks, offering something for every skill level. The landscape is defined by dense forests, deep gorges, and numerous waterfalls.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Marion County?
The trails in Marion County are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the region's beautiful waterfalls and the well-maintained paths through scenic gorges.
Are there any good waterfall hikes?
Absolutely. The area is famous for its waterfalls. A great option is the Denny Cove Waterfall Trail in South Cumberland State Park. It's a relatively easy 2.8-mile (4.5 km) hike that leads to a beautiful waterfall.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
Many trails in Marion County are suitable for hiking with dogs, provided they are kept on a leash. However, some areas, particularly within state parks or nature preserves, may have restrictions. Always check the specific regulations for the trail you plan to hike before you go.
What are some good hikes for beginners or families?
For an easier outing, the Little Cedar Mountain Loop Trail is an excellent choice. It's a 3.3-mile (5.4 km) loop with minimal elevation gain that offers lovely woodland scenery and views over the water.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced hikers?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the Edwards Point via Signal Point Trail is a difficult 10.5-mile (17 km) route. It involves significant elevation gain and rewards hikers with stunning views from Edwards Point.
Can you recommend a long-distance trail?
If you're looking for a full-day adventure, consider the Raccoon Mountain Reservoir loop. This 11.4-mile (18.4 km) trail circles a large reservoir and offers a mix of terrain, making it a rewarding long-distance hike.
Are there any circular or loop trails?
Yes, there are several great loop trails. The Snooper’s Rock loop from Cumberland Trail is a moderate 5.7-mile (9.2 km) circuit in Prentice Cooper State Forest that takes you to a fantastic viewpoint over the Tennessee River Gorge.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Marion County?
Spring and fall are ideal for hiking in Marion County, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while fall showcases vibrant foliage. Summer can be hot and humid, so plan for early morning hikes. Winter is cooler and offers clearer views through the trees, but be prepared for colder conditions.
What kind of wildlife might I see?
The dense hardwood forests and gorges are home to a variety of wildlife. While hiking, you might spot white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, squirrels, and a wide array of bird species. Trails near water, like the Blowing Wind Falls via Ritchie Hollow Trail, offer chances to see amphibians and other creek-dwelling creatures.
Where can I find a good viewpoint?
For one of the best views in the region, hike the Fiery Gizzard Trail to Raven Point. This challenging hike leads to a spectacular overlook with panoramic views of the surrounding gorges.
Most popular routes in Marion County
Most popular attractions in Marion County
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