Volunteer Trail

The Volunteer Trail is located within Long Hunter State Park. You can find parking at the park's main entrances, typically near the trailheads. Specific parking areas for the Volunteer Trail are usually well-marked within the park.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the Volunteer Trail. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other hikers. Please remember to clean up after your pet.

The trail is beautiful year-round, but spring is particularly vibrant with abundant wildflowers. Fall offers pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage. Summer can be warm and humid, while winter provides a quieter experience, though some sections might be muddy after rain.

There are typically no entrance fees to access Long Hunter State Park or to hike the Volunteer Trail. However, if you plan to use the primitive backcountry camping sites, you will need to obtain a permit from the park office in advance.

The Volunteer Trail is approximately 6 miles long one-way, making it a 12-mile round trip if you hike the entire length out-and-back. The average hiking time for the full route is around 4 hours and 37 minutes, but this can vary based on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

The trail features diverse terrain, primarily composed of dirt and rock. While much of Long Hunter State Park is relatively flat, this route includes a slight increase in elevation as it ascends from the lakeshore to bluffs overlooking Percy Priest Lake. Expect some technical spots with larger rocks that require careful footing.

Hikers often spot various species of shorebirds, ducks, and geese along Percy Priest Lake. The area is also home to wildlife such as red fox, bobcat, and deer. In spring, the trail comes alive with abundant wildflowers, and you'll encounter interesting rock formations and mossy hillsides throughout the year.

Yes, the Volunteer Trail provides access to a pair of primitive backcountry camping sites. These offer a unique opportunity for an overnight excursion, but remember that permits are required and must be obtained from the park office before your trip.

Yes, while primarily following the Volunteer Trail, the route also passes through sections of the Day Loop Trail.

The Volunteer Trail is rated as moderate. While not overly strenuous, its length (up to 12 miles out-and-back) and some technical rocky sections mean it's best suited for hikers in good physical shape who are ready for a full day of activity. Beginners might consider shorter sections or other trails within Long Hunter State Park first.

The trail offers breathtaking views of Percy Priest Lake for much of its length. You'll also enjoy a peaceful atmosphere under a canopy of tall trees, interesting rock and tree formations, and mossy hillsides. The ascent to bluffs overlooking the lake provides particularly scenic vistas.