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United States
Tennessee
Unicoi County

Unicoi

The best walks and hikes around Unicoi

4.3

(12)

86

hikers

19

hikes

Hiking around Unicoi offers diverse terrain within the North Georgia Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains, encompassing both Unicoi State Park in Georgia and Unicoi County in Tennessee. The region is characterized by extensive hardwood forests, significant portions of the Appalachian Trail, and the Cherokee National Forest. Hikers can explore areas featuring prominent lakes, numerous waterfalls, and mountain peaks exceeding 5,000 feet, providing varied elevation gains and natural features.

Best hiking trails around Unicoi

  • The most popular hiking route is…

Last updated: May 10, 2026

10

hikers

#1.

Buffalo Mountain Tip Top Trail via White Rock Loop and Fork Knob

5.82km

01:55

290m

200m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

1

hikers

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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1.50km

00:29

110m

0m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

4.99km

01:38

320m

100m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Tips from the Community

mtm05005
June 5, 2025, Buffalo Mountain Park

Buffalo Mountain Park is a 725-acre nature preserve featuring steep, forested terrain. There are several miles of hiking trails that have great views of the nearby mountains and valleys.

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Buffalo Mountain Park is home to a variety of different trails and visitors. It can be agreed, though, that the highlight of the park is the highpoint of Buffalo Mountain. Regardless of what trail you take, follow signs towards "Tip Top" to find your way to the top of this spectacular mountain top with views of Johnson City in one direction and the mountains of Cherokee National Forest in the other.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many hiking trails are available around Unicoi?

There are over 20 hiking routes available around Unicoi, catering to various skill levels. The komoot community has explored nearly 100 of these routes, providing valuable insights.

What kind of terrain can I expect on the hiking trails in Unicoi?

Hiking around Unicoi offers diverse terrain, from the scenic North Georgia Mountains to the rugged Blue Ridge Mountains. You'll traverse extensive hardwood forests, rhododendron thickets, and mossy creek valleys. In Unicoi County, Tennessee, you'll find significant portions of the Appalachian Trail and the Cherokee National Forest, with some trails leading to unique grassy and heath balds atop summits.

Are there any trails with waterfalls in the Unicoi area?

Yes, the Unicoi region is home to several beautiful waterfalls. In Unicoi State Park, Georgia, the strenuous Smith Creek Trail leads to the impressive Anna Ruby Falls. In Unicoi County, Tennessee, you can find numerous waterfalls like Buckeye Falls, Martin Creek Falls, and Rock Creek Falls. You can explore the Dick Creek Falls Trail for a moderate hike to a cascade.

What is the best time of year to go hiking in Unicoi?

Unicoi offers appealing hiking experiences across all seasons. Spring brings new greenery and early blooming flowers, while fall showcases vibrant foliage. Winter provides open vistas, and summer allows for lush forest walks. The changing seasons ensure varied beauty throughout the year.

Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Unicoi?

Yes, Unicoi offers several easy and family-friendly trails. In Unicoi State Park, Georgia, the 2.5-mile Lake Trail is a beginner-friendly loop around Unicoi Lake, offering tranquil views. The Frog Pond Nature Trail is another easy, short loop with interpretive signs. For a slightly longer easy option, consider the Lone Oak Trail.

What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Unicoi?

The trails in Unicoi are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from 9 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from mountain views to serene forests, and the variety of trails suitable for different skill levels. The opportunity to experience parts of the Appalachian Trail and discover hidden waterfalls is also frequently highlighted.

Are there any trails with good viewpoints in Unicoi?

Absolutely. The region is known for its scenic vistas. The Pinnacle Mountain Fire Tower Trail offers impressive 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding valley. In Unicoi County, Tennessee, the Beauty Spot bald also provides stunning panoramic views of the mountains. You can also visit Tip Top (Buffalo Mountain Highpoint) for another excellent vantage point.

Can I find circular hiking routes in Unicoi?

Yes, there are several circular hiking routes available. In Unicoi State Park, Georgia, the Lake Trail is a 2.5-mile loop around Unicoi Lake. The Bottoms Loop Trail is another 2-mile moderate loop. For a mountain forest experience, the Buffalo Mountain Tip Top Trail via White Rock Loop and Fork Knob is a popular circular option.

What are some notable landmarks or attractions to see while hiking in Unicoi?

Beyond the natural beauty, Unicoi offers several points of interest. In Unicoi State Park, Georgia, Unicoi Lake is a central feature. In Unicoi County, Tennessee, you can explore the Cherokee National Forest and sections of the Appalachian Trail. Highlights include the Beauty Spot Bald for views, and the C&O Depot for a historical site.

What is the difficulty level of hiking trails in Unicoi?

Unicoi offers a range of trails suitable for various abilities. You'll find easy nature walks, such as the Lake Trail in Unicoi State Park, and moderate routes like the Pinnacle Mountain Fire Tower Trail. There are also more strenuous mountain climbs, particularly on sections of the Appalachian Trail and routes like the Smith Creek Trail to Anna Ruby Falls, which gains significant elevation.

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