The best running trails in Harrison Bay State Park

The Summit Knobs loop offers a demanding yet rewarding jogging experience through the heavily wooded, hilly terrain of Enterprise South Nature Park. Expect a natural, unpaved surface that winds through rolling hills, providing a good mix of challenge and scenic beauty. While primarily forested, the trail occasionally opens up to reveal pastoral scenes, hinting at the equestrian use it shares. This 17.1-mile (27.5 km) route features 1480 feet (451 metres) of elevation gain, making it a difficult outing that typically takes around 3 hours and 27 minutes to jog.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trailhead provides ample gravel parking, even for horse trailers. This multi-use trail is open to joggers and horseback riders, but leave your bike at home, as they are not allowed. If you're bringing a furry friend, the trail is dog-friendly, just be sure to keep them on a leash. Given the trail's length and the significant elevation changes, it's wise to start early in the day and carry sufficient water, especially during warmer months.

What sets the Summit Knobs loop apart is its unique blend of natural terrain and multi-use designation within Enterprise South Nature Park. It offers a substantial workout for those seeking a longer, more challenging jogging route that leans heavily into trail running conditions. The varied ground and consistent elevation make it a great option for building endurance and enjoying a deep dive into nature, away from paved paths. It's a solid choice for experienced joggers looking for a true test in the Chattanooga area.

The Enterprise South Nature Park loop from the Volkswagen Group of America entrance offers a refreshing jogging experience through dense, natural forests. You'll find a mix of surfaces, from paved sections to softer mulched paths and even some singletrack, all winding through a serene environment. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like deer and hawks, and enjoy the feeling of solitude even on a popular route.

This moderate 6.7-mile (10.8 km) loop involves 408 feet (124 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 14 minutes to complete. The park is open from 7 AM to sundown daily, and you'll find convenient amenities like restrooms and a visitor center with maps and a water refill station. The trails are clearly marked and color-coded, making navigation simple.

What truly sets this park apart is its unique history; it was once part of the Volunteer Army Ammunition Plant. As you jog, you'll encounter remnants of this past, including 100 concrete TNT storage magazines scattered throughout the landscape, providing distinctive landmarks. With over 38 miles of total trails, the park offers an extensive network for varied running experiences, including mulched sections that are gentler on your joints.

The Poe Run Path – Hidden Lake loop offers a substantial jogging challenge through the natural beauty of Enterprise South Nature Park. You'll navigate a mix of singletrack and mulched paths, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the woods. The route's centerpiece is the tranquil Hidden Lake, a lovely spot to catch your breath, and you'll also pass by the intriguing Volunteer Army Ammunition Plant Bunker 47, adding a historical twist to your run.

This difficult 12.4-mile (20.0 km) route features 765 feet (233 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes to complete. The trail is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your leashed companion. Parking is available at Enterprise South Nature Park, making it a convenient option for a longer workout near the Volkswagen Group of America.

What makes this trail stand out is its blend of natural serenity and historical interest, all within a popular and accessible park setting. It's a great choice if you're looking for a longer, more demanding jog that still offers plenty of scenic rewards and a chance to explore local history.

The Poe Run, Hawk's Ridge and Dogwood Ridge Loop offers a refreshing jogging experience through Edgar M. Queeny County Park. You'll navigate a mix of paved, gravel, and rocky surfaces, winding through open fields and dense woodlands filled with mature oak and hickory trees. The route also skirts the tranquil Twin Ponds, providing a scenic backdrop to this moderate 6.3-mile (10.1 km) journey with 325 feet (99 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 14 minutes.

Accessing this trail is straightforward, as Queeny Park is well-regarded for its trail system. The paths, particularly the Hawk Ridge Trail, are multi-use, so expect to share the route with cyclists and walkers. A great feature of these trails is their excellent drainage, meaning they often dry out quickly after rain, making them a reliable option for your workout.

Beyond the natural beauty, the park holds historical significance, with the Hawk Ridge Trail passing by the Jarville House, a Greek Revival-style building dating back to 1854. This blend of varied terrain, from rolling hills to flat sections, makes it an ideal spot for diverse jogging workouts, from steady-pace runs to more challenging uphill efforts, all within a diverse ecosystem of fields, forests, and pond-side paths.

The Still Hollow Loop is a fantastic choice for a moderate jogging route, offering a smooth, mostly paved surface through a natural forest setting. This 5.8-mile (9.3 km) loop features 491 feet (150 metres) of elevation gain, which you can comfortably cover in about 59 minutes. You'll enjoy gently rolling hills, views of White Oak Mountain, and the unique sight of historical TNT storage magazines along the way.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is generally less crowded than other park options. Dogs are welcome on a leash, making it a great spot for a run with your canine companion. Spring and autumn are ideal for comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery, but summer jogs are best done in the cooler early mornings or late afternoons.

This trail is part of the expansive 2800-acre Enterprise South Nature Park, which was once a munitions facility. The presence of the 100 concrete TNT storage magazines adds a fascinating historical layer to your natural surroundings. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like deer, turkey, and hawks as you enjoy this accessible and well-maintained running route.