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Bay Point Loop Trail

Hiking trails & Routes

United States

Tennessee

Hamilton County

Bay Point Loop Trail

Easy

2.9

(15)

hikers

Bay Point Loop Trail

Q: Where does the Bay Point Loop Trail start and is there parking available?

The trail begins at the Bay Point Loop trailhead within Harrison Bay State Park. Ample parking is available at the park, making access straightforward for visitors.

Q: Is the Bay Point Loop Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly! You are welcome to bring your canine companions, but please ensure they remain on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all users.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The trail is enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery. The dense tree cover provides good shade, making it a viable option even on warmer days, though some sections can get muddy after rain.

Q: Are there any fees or permits required to access the trail or Harrison Bay State Park?

No, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access Harrison Bay State Park or to hike the Bay Point Loop Trail. It's free to enjoy the park's amenities and trails.

Q: How long does it typically take to complete the loop?

The Bay Point Loop Trail is approximately 7.2 kilometers (4.2 miles) long. Most hikers can expect to complete the loop in about 1 hour and 50 minutes, depending on their pace and how often they stop to enjoy the views.

Q: Is the trail suitable for beginners or families?

Absolutely! This is an easy-rated trail with minimal elevation gain, making it an excellent choice for beginners, families with children, and those looking for a relaxed outdoor experience. Its largely flat terrain is very accessible.

Q: What kind of scenery can I expect along the trail?

You can expect beautiful views of Chickamauga Lake for a significant portion of the route. The path is often shaded by dense tree cover, creating a pleasant forest atmosphere. Benches and gazebos are placed along the way for you to pause and enjoy the picturesque lake scenery.

Q: Are there any viewpoints or landmarks along the route?

Yes, a notable viewpoint along the trail is the View of Chickamauga Lake , offering scenic vistas of the water. You'll also find benches and gazebos strategically placed to enjoy the surroundings.

Q: What is the terrain like on the Bay Point Loop Trail?

The terrain is primarily single-track and largely flat, contributing to its easy difficulty rating. While generally smooth, you might encounter occasional roots and rocks. Some sections may become muddy after rain, but wooden boardwalks are present in low-lying areas to assist with navigation.

Q: Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, while primarily known as the Bay Point Loop Trail, the route also passes through sections officially designated as the Bay Point Loop Trail Connector at various points.

01:50

7.20km

20m

Hiking

Embark on an easy hike along the Bay Point Loop Trail, a scenic route that stretches for 4.5 miles (7.2 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 61 feet (19 metres). You can expect to complete this loop in about 1 hour and 49 minutes, making it perfect for a relaxed outing. As you follow the path, much of your journey will hug the shores of Chickamauga Lake, providing continuous, calming water views. The trail often winds through dense tree cover, offering a pleasant, shaded escape from the sun, and you might even cross charming wooden boardwalks in the lower sections.

Located within Harrison Bay State Park, the Bay Point Loop Trail is a versatile path welcoming not only hikers but also mountain bikers and trail runners. If you plan to bring your dog, remember to keep them on a leash to ensure everyone enjoys the experience. The park itself offers convenient amenities like picnic areas, allowing you to extend your visit and relax before or after your hike.

This trail stands out for its accessibility and the serene experience it offers alongside Chickamauga Lake. It provides a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature without demanding strenuous effort, making it a popular choice for a quick escape into the outdoors. The combination of lakeside views and shaded woodlands creates a refreshing atmosphere that sets it apart in the region.

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

115 m

Bay Point Loop trailhead

Highlight • Trail

The Bay Point Loop Trail departs here, from the east side of the parking lot near the picnic tables. The trail returns to the same place. Follow the red blazes.

Tip by

1.21 km

View of Chickamauga Lake

Highlight • Viewpoint

This point along the shore provides access to a small beach and a wooden bench from which to enjoy the view.

Tip by

7.20 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

7.16 km

< 100 m

Surfaces

6.91 km

292 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Wednesday 1 July

37°C

23°C

29 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the Bay Point Loop Trail start and is there parking available?

The trail begins at the Bay Point Loop trailhead within Harrison Bay State Park. Ample parking is available at the park, making access straightforward for visitors.

Is the Bay Point Loop Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly! You are welcome to bring your canine companions, but please ensure they remain on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all users.

What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The trail is enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery. The dense tree cover provides good shade, making it a viable option even on warmer days, though some sections can get muddy after rain.

Are there any fees or permits required to access the trail or Harrison Bay State Park?

No, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access Harrison Bay State Park or to hike the Bay Point Loop Trail. It's free to enjoy the park's amenities and trails.

How long does it typically take to complete the loop?

The Bay Point Loop Trail is approximately 7.2 kilometers (4.2 miles) long. Most hikers can expect to complete the loop in about 1 hour and 50 minutes, depending on their pace and how often they stop to enjoy the views.

Is the trail suitable for beginners or families?

Absolutely! This is an easy-rated trail with minimal elevation gain, making it an excellent choice for beginners, families with children, and those looking for a relaxed outdoor experience. Its largely flat terrain is very accessible.

What kind of scenery can I expect along the trail?

You can expect beautiful views of Chickamauga Lake for a significant portion of the route. The path is often shaded by dense tree cover, creating a pleasant forest atmosphere. Benches and gazebos are placed along the way for you to pause and enjoy the picturesque lake scenery.

Are there any viewpoints or landmarks along the route?

Yes, a notable viewpoint along the trail is the View of Chickamauga Lake, offering scenic vistas of the water. You'll also find benches and gazebos strategically placed to enjoy the surroundings.

What is the terrain like on the Bay Point Loop Trail?

The terrain is primarily single-track and largely flat, contributing to its easy difficulty rating. While generally smooth, you might encounter occasional roots and rocks. Some sections may become muddy after rain, but wooden boardwalks are present in low-lying areas to assist with navigation.

Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, while primarily known as the Bay Point Loop Trail, the route also passes through sections officially designated as the Bay Point Loop Trail Connector at various points.

Can I bike or run on the Bay Point Loop Trail?

Yes, this is a multi-use trail popular not only with hikers but also with mountain bikers and trail runners. Its easy difficulty and relatively flat terrain make it suitable for all three activities.