Easy hikes and walks in Pickett County
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101
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Easy hiking trails in Pickett County traverse a landscape characterized by sandstone bluffs, dense hardwood forests, and numerous natural bridges and arches. The region is situated on the Cumberland Plateau, featuring scenic gorges and creeks that often lead to waterfalls. This diverse terrain provides varied experiences for hikers, from gentle forest paths to routes with geological formations.
Best easy hiking trails in Pickett County
- The most popular easy hiking route is Hazard Cave and Natural Bridge Loop, a 2.3…
Last updated: June 25, 2026
3
hikers
3.56km
01:01
70m
90m
Embark on an easy hike along the Mesa Top and Upper Canyon Trail, a 2.2-mile (3.6 km) route that offers a diverse landscape within Pogue Creek Canyon State Natural Area.…
2
hikers
3.90km
01:03
60m
40m
The John Muir Trail offers an easy hiking experience within the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. You will cover 2.4 miles (3.9 km) with a gentle elevation…
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5.88km
01:34
60m
70m
The Oscar Blevins Loop Trail offers an easy hike through mixed forests, perfect for a relaxed outing. You will cover 3.7 miles (5.9 km) with a gentle elevation gain of…
2.08km
00:34
20m
30m
Hike the easy 1.3-mile Eagle Point Trail in Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park for scenic views and a peaceful outdoor experience.
930m
00:15
0m
30m
Embark on an easy hike along the Crystal Falls via Hidden Passage Trail, a short but rewarding journey through hardwood forests and past striking sandstone bluff lines. This route covers…
4.5
(2)
23
hikers
6.24km
01:41
80m
80m
Set out on the Angel Falls Trail for an easy hike that follows the Big South Fork of the Cumberland River. This route spans 3.9 miles (6.2 km) and involves…
1
hikers
4.89km
01:30
170m
160m
Hike the easy 3.0-mile Leatherwood Loop in Big South Fork, featuring river views, potential waterfalls, and blooming mountain laurel.
3.69km
01:01
60m
60m
Embark on an easy hike along the Hazard Cave and Natural Bridge Loop, a 2.3-mile (3.7 km) route that guides you through a vibrant hardwood forest. You will encounter impressive…
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Pickett County
Tips from the Community
The bridge is a truly remarkable formation that closely resembles the slender and graceful arch of a man-made bridge. This is right next to the parking area and easily accessible both from the trail and as a quick stop off the highway.
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Hazard Cave is an epic open cavern with plenty of space to walk around inside and feel like you are in an underground amphitheater. There are some benches just under near the entrance. The trail is well marked, well maintained, and fairly easy.
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The arch is gigantic and towers majestically over the forest floor. There are a ton of trail to explore from the base of the arch, so bring a map to make sure you are on track!
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You can take the trail up on top of the arch to get sweeping views across Big South Fork. You can also explore the base of the arch. Both are great spots for photo ops!
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Walk north a couple feet from the trailhead to see the ruins of an old rail bridge that stretches across the ford. You can walk on part of the bridge quite safely, though most of the middle is washed away. From here you can explore south along the river via the John Muir Trail and Leatherwood Trails, or head north to Angel Falls.
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The "falls" is a section of the river where the rocky bank closes in and forms a short cascade of white water rapids. This makes for a great picnic area and turn-around point on the trail.
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The trail is a wide, easy, forested route along the riverside with beautiful views across the water.
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Actually not a waterfall but a cataract.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails can I find in Pickett County?
Pickett County offers 13 easy hiking trails, providing a variety of experiences through its unique landscapes. These routes are perfect for those looking for less strenuous outdoor adventures.
Are there any family-friendly easy hikes in Pickett County?
Yes, many easy trails in Pickett County are suitable for families. The Hazard Cave and Natural Bridge Loop is a popular 2.3-mile option that offers diverse scenery, including a natural bridge and the unique Hazard Cave, known for its bioluminescent glow worms in early June.
Which easy trails feature natural bridges or arches?
Pickett County is renowned for its natural bridges and arches. You can explore the impressive Natural Bridge on the Hazard Cave and Natural Bridge Loop. For another unique experience, the North Arch (Twin Arches) – South Arch (Twin Arches) loop from Big South Fork takes you to the largest natural bridge complex in Tennessee.
Can I find easy hikes that lead to waterfalls in Pickett County?
Yes, several easy trails follow scenic creeks that lead to picturesque waterfalls. The Crystal Falls via Hidden Passage Trail offers a short, easy walk to Crystal Falls. You might also encounter Double Falls on other routes in the area.
What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes in Pickett County?
Easy hikes in Pickett County primarily traverse hardwood forests, offering vibrant seasonal foliage. You'll also encounter impressive sandstone bluffs, rock shelters, and scenic gorges carved by creeks, providing varied and interesting landscapes.
Are there any circular or loop trails among the easy hiking options?
Absolutely. Loop trails are a great way to experience diverse scenery without retracing your steps. Popular easy loop options include the Hazard Cave and Natural Bridge Loop, the Oscar Blevins Loop Trail, and the North Arch (Twin Arches) – South Arch (Twin Arches) loop from Big South Fork.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in Pickett County?
The easy trails in Pickett County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning geological formations like natural bridges and bluffs, the peaceful hardwood forests, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable and accessible outdoor experiences.
What are some unique natural features to look out for on these trails?
Beyond natural bridges and waterfalls, Pickett County's trails offer unique features like Hazard Cave, known for its rare bioluminescent fungus gnat larvae (glow worms) visible in early June. The region is also recognized as an International Dark Sky Park, offering exceptional stargazing opportunities, especially in areas like Pickett CCC Memorial State Park and Pogue Creek Canyon Natural Area.
What is the best time of year to go on an easy hike in Pickett County?
Pickett County offers enjoyable hiking year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and wildflowers, while autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage. Summer is great for combining hikes with water activities at Dale Hollow Lake, and winter offers a serene, stark beauty, especially on trails with rock formations.
Are there any easy trails that offer scenic viewpoints?
Many trails in Pickett County provide scenic views, particularly those that traverse the sandstone bluffs and gorges. While specific named viewpoints are less common on easy trails, routes like the Eagle Point Trail offer pleasant vistas of the surrounding forest and landscape.
What is the typical length and duration of an easy hike in Pickett County?
Easy hikes in Pickett County vary in length, generally ranging from 1 to 4 miles. For example, the Hazard Cave and Natural Bridge Loop is 2.3 miles and takes about 1 hour, while the Oscar Blevins Loop Trail is 3.7 miles and typically takes around 1 hour 34 minutes.
Most popular routes in Pickett County
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