The best walks and hikes around Greenback
5.0
(1)
8
hikers
6
hikes
Hiking around Greenback, Tennessee, offers access to a diverse landscape characterized by the scenic shores of Tellico Lake and the surrounding foothills. The area is situated within the Baker Creek Valley, with views extending towards Chilhowee Mountain and the distant Great Smoky Mountains. The Little Tennessee River also contributes to the region's natural features, providing varied terrain for outdoor activities. This setting provides a mix of waterfront paths and forested routes.
Best hiking trails around Greenback
- The most popular hiking route is East Lakeshore Trail: Glendale Branch, a 4.9 miles (7.9 km) moderate trail that takes about 2 hours to complete. This path offers views along the shores of Tellico Lake.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is East Lakeshore Trail: Sinking Creek Branch, an easy 4.4 miles (7.1 km) path. This route traverses younger forests and provides access to the lake.
- Local hikers also love the Ridge Top Trail, a 1.8 miles (2.9 km) trail leading through forested areas, often completed in about 45 minutes.
- Hiking around Greenback is defined by lakefront paths, forested hills, and views of distant mountains. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy walks to moderate excursions.
- The routes in Greenback are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 1 review. More than 10 hikers have used komoot to explore Greenback's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
5
hikers
2.86km
00:46
30m
30m
Hike the easy 1.8-mile Ridge Top Trail in Fort Loudoun State Historic Park, gaining 101 feet with views towards Tellico Lake.
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
7.86km
02:03
60m
60m
Embark on a moderate hike along the East Lakeshore Trail: Glendale Branch, covering 4.9 miles (7.9 km) with an elevation gain of 188 feet (57 metres). This route takes about 2 hours and 3 minutes to complete. You will enjoy diverse views as you follow the shoreline of Powerline Cove and the main channel of Tellico Lake. The path winds through mature hardwood forests and areas with large pine trees, offering panoramic lake views. Look out for the three farm silos and the Tellico Dam in the distance as you hike.
This trail is known for its accessibility, making it a good choice if you are hiking with family or children. While generally easy, be aware that some sections do feature moderate uphill and downhill parts through the woods. Parking is typically available at the Glendale Trailhead, providing convenient access to the route. Plan your visit to make the most of your time on the trail.
The Glendale Branch is part of the larger East Lakeshore Trail system, offering various loop options for different preferences. As you hike, you might notice powerline cuts that can display abundant wildflowers, especially if you visit in late summer. This trail is a great way to experience the natural beauty of East Tennessee and Tellico Lake.
Sign up for free
1
hikers
7.11km
01:56
110m
110m
Embark on an easy hiking adventure along the East Lakeshore Trail: Sinking Creek Branch, a route that offers a pleasant mix of lake views and peaceful forest sections. This trail spans 4.4 miles (7.1 km) and involves a gentle elevation gain of 348 feet (106 metres), making it accessible for most hikers. You can expect to complete the journey in about 1 hour and 56 minutes, enjoying glimpses of Tellico Lake as you follow along its coves. Keep an eye out for the impressive 85-foot steel and concrete bridge over Coytee Cove, a prominent landmark along the way.
Planning your visit to the Sinking Creek Branch is straightforward. The trail connects the Coytee Trailhead to the Sinking Creek Trailhead, providing clear starting and ending points. You will generally find parking available at both of these trailheads, making access convenient. There are no specific permits or fees mentioned for this trail, so you can enjoy a spontaneous outing without extra hassle.
As you hike through the younger mixed pine and hardwood trees, you will discover more than just natural beauty. Around the 2.7-mile mark, you might spot a unique piece of history: an old abandoned pickup truck from the 1940s. This relic adds a distinctive touch to your journey, offering a glimpse into the past and setting this branch apart from other trails in the region.
1.90km
00:32
40m
40m
Hike the easy 1.2-mile Wildcat Ridge Spur Trail in East Lakeshore Trail, Tennessee, with 122 feet of elevation gain in about 32 minutes.
8.04km
02:11
110m
120m
Hike the moderate 5.0-mile East Lakeshore Trail: Jackson Bend Branch for scenic lakeside views along Tellico Lake and peaceful forest paths.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Greenback
Tips from the Community
This man-made reservoir is home to more than 50 species of fish, and even has a swimming beach on it. But in this case, the star attraction is the wheelchair-accessible fishing pier at Fort Loudoun State Historic Park. (You can fish from the shore here, too.)
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of hiking trails can I expect around Greenback?
Greenback offers a diverse range of hiking experiences, primarily centered around the scenic East Lakeshore Trails system along Tellico Lake. These trails provide nearly 29 miles of paths, ranging from easy walks to more moderate ascents through younger forests and along the waterfront. You'll find routes suitable for short day hikes, with many offering rewarding views for quicker outings.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hiking options in Greenback?
Yes, Greenback has several easy trails perfect for families. The East Lakeshore Trails system includes branches like the Sinking Creek Branch, which is an easy 7.1 km walk. Another great option is the Ridge Top Trail, a shorter 2.8 km easy hike. These trails generally feature gentle elevation changes and scenic surroundings.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Greenback?
Many trails in the Greenback area are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy nature with your canine companion. Specifically, the East Lakeshore Trail at both the Morganton and Wildcat Pointe trailheads welcomes dogs. Some areas even offer shaded seating and swimming spots for pets.
Are there any trails with waterfalls near Greenback?
While Greenback itself is not directly known for waterfalls, the broader region within a 50-mile radius boasts a significant number of waterfall hiking trails. You can find popular spots like Bald River Falls, Laurel Falls, and Abrams Falls, offering a variety of experiences from easy walks to more moderate ascents to reach these scenic rewards.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks I can see while hiking?
The hiking trails around Greenback offer stunning views of Tellico Lake, which is a significant natural draw. You can also enjoy vistas of Chilhowee Mountain and the majestic Great Smoky Mountains in the distance. The East Lakeshore Trails, for example, feature numerous bridges over streams and coves, with benches strategically placed to enjoy the lake views.
What is the best season for hiking in Greenback, Tennessee?
Greenback offers enjoyable hiking throughout much of the year. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage, making these seasons particularly scenic. Summer is also popular, though it can be warm, and winter offers a quieter, often crisp experience. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any circular hiking routes available?
While many of the East Lakeshore Trails are linear branches, they can often be combined or hiked out-and-back to create a circular experience if you plan your route carefully. For example, the Wildcat Ridge Spur Trail is a shorter option that can be enjoyed as an out-and-back, offering a contained hiking experience.
How long do hikes around Greenback typically take?
Hikes around Greenback vary in duration. Shorter, easy trails like the Ridge Top Trail can take less than an hour. Moderate trails, such as the East Lakeshore Trail: Glendale Branch (7.8 km), might take around 2-3 hours. The East Lakeshore Trails system is designed with 11 branches, allowing you to choose shorter sections or combine them for longer excursions.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Greenback?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the serene beauty of Tellico Lake, the well-maintained paths of the East Lakeshore Trails, and the opportunity to enjoy peaceful walks through nature with diverse scenery.
Is there public transport access to the hiking trails in Greenback?
Public transportation options directly to the trailheads in Greenback are limited. Most visitors typically access the hiking trails, especially the East Lakeshore Trails, by car. There are designated parking areas available at various access points along the trail system.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes in the Greenback area?
While many trails are easy to moderate, some branches of the East Lakeshore Trails, such as the East Lakeshore Trail: Jackson Bend Branch (8 km), offer a moderate challenge with slightly more elevation gain. For those seeking longer distances, the extensive East Lakeshore Trail system allows for combining multiple branches to create extended hikes, covering significant mileage along Tellico Lake.
Most popular routes around Greenback
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
