Blackwell Swamp Loop

Dogs Unknown

Features Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views · Wildlife

This is an easy loop that's similar to but shorter than the Wheeler Wildlife Refuge: Buckeye/Goose Pond hike.

From the gravel parking lot on Jolley B Road, head south, cross over one gate and keep heading toward the Tennessee River. Before you reach the River, take Blackwell Swamp Road to the left and cross another gate.

This is an easy doubletrack trail that runs around Blackwell Swamp. It is a perfect for the novice trail hiker because it is flat and not connected to any other trails, so you won't get lost. Also, because it's an old road with minimal rocks or roots, no technical skills are required.

It heads east giving your a nice view of the Tennessee River for the first mile. After that, make your way north while the trail periodically zigs west before zagging north for the next 3.5 miles where you zig one last time before heading south towards Jolley B Road. Here the trail gradually heads downward so you can finish this section strong.

From here, continue down Jolley B Road until you reach the point at which you began this hike.

Simple, easy, flat, and fast.