When we are looking for a fast, relatively easy hike, not too far off the interstate, the Nolichucky Ridge Cliff Hike (or Cliff Ridge, as we call it) is always the one we default to.
Chimney Rocks Trail
Hiking the Chimney Rocks Trail provides beautiful views of the oxbow at Weaver’s Bend on the French Broad River, unmatched locally for its uniqueness.
Osceola Island and South Holston Spillway Trail
Two easy hikes in the Bristol area. Both of these trails are great for beginners and families. There are plenty of options for picnics and fishing!
Indian Grave Gap to Overlook
While Indian Grave Gap is most well known for the hike on the AT up to Beauty Spot, there’s more to explore in the other direction that deserves a visit. If you want the views of Beauty Spot, but want complete seclusion, this is the hike for you.
Little Rock Knob
Little Rock Knob is Andy’s favorite local hike. It’s a 4.5 mile roundtrip hike on the Appalachian Trail leading to a rocky overlook of the valley below.
Warriors’ Path State Park
On a busy weekend, we often only have a few hours to do a hike. When we’re pressed for time, we like to go to Warriors’ Path State Park. Warriors’ Path is located on the South Holston River in east Kingsport. It’s very accessible, only a 5 minute drive from 81.
Lower Higgins Creek Falls
On Saturday, we got a big rainstorm. The first thought we have after a storm is “what waterfall should we do tomorrow?”. I love to do waterfalls after a rain, you’re almost guaranteed to have good flow, but you don’t have to worry about a slippery trail or flash flooding like you would the same day as a storm. Lower Higgins Creek Falls is a 60 foot waterfall and the short hike makes this one worth a visit.
Sam’s Gap to Big Bald
Sometimes I take for granted how lucky we are to have the Appalachian Trail right in our backyard. I often default to the same couple of AT hikes, but with hundreds of miles accessible within an hour or so, I’ve been trying to explore some new sections! Sam’s Gap to Big Bald is a section I have heard about a couple times over the years.
Laurel Fork Falls – Hampton Trailhead
If you were to ask me for the best waterfall hike in the Appalachian Highlands, I would tell you Laurel Fork Falls.