Hickory Ridge Loop Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Views · Wildlife

There is a set of restrooms across the street from the trail along the Bobwhite Accessible Trail close to the Bluebird Barn. There are no concessions in this park, so you need to bring any snacks and drinks with you. There is a set of stairs that have a steep first step if hiking counterclockwise, so be aware of this if you have trouble with steps.

The Hickory Ridge Loop Trail is a trail through the forest, up a ridge, to an overlook with great views of the French Broad River, Chilhowee Mountain, and the Great Smoky Mountains. To get to the trail, take the Bobwhite Trail past the Blue Bird Barn and take a left and cross the road. The trail enters the woods and comes to a split. Going to the right the trail follows the road for a little bit before turning around the hillside to the left.

Be on the lookout for deer in the woods, especially in the evening as they feed. The trail climbs steeply up a set of stairs before continuing around the mountain. Between 0.4 and 0.5 miles, there is a short trail that breaks off to the left that leads to a bench that has great views of the river and surrounding mountains. It is a great view point. Continue climbing uphill and past another view point off on the right where you can enjoy views of the French Broad River.

While you can see the river through the woods, this is one of the better views along the trail. The trail climbs a little more before it starts dropping down the hillside. The trail hooks back to the left and arrives at a small amphitheater setting with wooden benches. The trail meets back up with the junction before coming back to the road and the trailhead. From here you can explore more of the park.

There are a variety of trees that you hike through along this trail, so especially in the fall, there are a lot of different colors to enjoy.

Deer, turkey, squirrels, and other animals common to East TN can be found here. Deer can be seen feeding in the woods as evening approaches. A variety of birds can be seen along the trail.