The best walks and hikes in Hawkins County

Hawkins County offers a diverse range of hiking experiences, from easy strolls to more challenging treks. You'll find trails winding through rolling hills, lush forests, and along scenic riverbanks. There are currently 11 hiking routes available, including 5 easy, 4 moderate, and 2 difficult options.

Yes, Hawkins County has several easy and family-friendly options. Laurel Run Park is an excellent choice, offering a one-mile paved walking path along the Holston River, perfect for a gentle stroll. For a slightly longer, easy hike, consider the Laurel Run Trail itself, which is just under 4 km. Another great option is the Bays Ridge Trail to Front Hollow and Lake Road, an easy 4.8 km route.

Absolutely! Laurel Run Park is home to two beautiful waterfalls. You can reach Laurel Falls with about a 20-minute hike from the trailhead, and Kiner Creek Falls is an additional 20 minutes further. These natural features make for a rewarding hiking experience.

Hawkins County's trails are rich in wildlife. In areas like Laurel Run Park, you might spot deer, rabbits, opossums, turkeys, otters, and beavers. Keep an eye out for bald eagles along the Holston River. Occasionally, even bears are sighted, so always be aware of your surroundings.

Yes, there are several excellent circular routes. For a moderate challenge, try the River Mountain Road and Chestnut Trail Loop, which is over 12 km. Another popular loop is the Chestnut, Big Oak and Chinquapin Trail Loop, covering nearly 10 km. For a longer, more difficult option, consider the Holston River Mountain loop from Herpetarium.

Beyond the waterfalls at Laurel Run Park, you can discover an overlook rising 300 feet above the surrounding area, offering unique perspectives. Along the trails, you might also find remnants of old homesteads, including an unfinished cabin and smokehouse. The region also features fire towers like the Bays Mountain and Clinch Mountain Lookout Towers, providing elevated views.

The spring months, particularly April through June, are especially beautiful for hiking in Hawkins County. During this time, Laurel Run Park and other forested areas are adorned with a variety of wildflowers, including ferns, trilliums, and chicks, offering abundant photo opportunities.

For those seeking a significant challenge, the Kingsport Greenbelt offers a difficult 34 km route. Another demanding option is the Holston River Mountain loop from Herpetarium, which spans over 18 km with considerable elevation changes.

The komoot community highly rates the hiking experiences in Hawkins County, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the serene natural beauty, the variety of trails, and the opportunities to discover hidden gems like waterfalls and historical remnants.

For additional details on parks and recreational opportunities in the area, you can visit the official Hawkins County Parks website: hawkinscountytn.gov/parks.html.

Yes, if you're looking for a quick and easy outdoor escape, the Crosby Pothole Refuge Trail is an excellent choice. It's just over 2 km long and offers a gentle walk. Another short and accessible option is the Bays Mountain Reservoir loop from Bays Mountain Dam, which is around 4 km.