Best Fall Hiking Trails in Middle Tennessee

The Fall is one of the finest times to hit the trail. The cool air and the majesty of the changing leaf colors makes Autumn hiking a fruitful experience. Middle Tennessee is blessed by numerous beautiful trails that can satisfy the cravings of any level of outdoors person. One of the most fulfilling aspects of a fall hike is the combination of rolling hills, running water, and the new canvas of colors. Many Tennessee trails offer all of these aspects. Here is a list of some of the best trails here in Middle Tennessee.

• Sewannee Perimeter Trail - The Perimeter trail in Sewannee Tennessee offers trails for day hikes, biking, and horseback riding. There are about 20 miles of walkable trails that all connect and surround the university city of Sewannee. Like many of the trails in the area, these trails feature plenty of overlooks. There are several bluff overlooks of the Tennessee valley; including one over Morgan's Steep Cross. There are also several streams feeding into two lakes that offer relaxing rest points. Visit here for information on horseback riding and special events. After taking exit 134 on I-24, take Highway 41 South toward Sewannee. There are trail entrances at the pillar gates and the entrance of the university campus.

• Fiery Gizzard Trail- Not far from Sewannee, in Tracy City, is the Fiery Gizzard Trail. It features a three mile day loop with an elevation change of fewer that 100 feet. This trail is easy, but fun. The Fiery Gizzard is deep in the mountains, and although it's short, you fell isolated. It follows a stream with several falls, so there are plenty of opportunities for swimming and relaxing on the rocks. After taking exit 134 on I-24, drive toward Monteagle. Take Highway 41 toward Tracy City (it's the only major intersection in town.) The South Cumberland Recreation Area Visitor's Center is on the left in about a mile.

• Fall Creek Falls State Park- This state park offers many options for hikers. There are overnight trails for backpackers, and in addition, there are plenty of day trails. Depending on the trail taken, the hiker may run into a variety of levels of difficulty. There are different scenic trails that are easy and offer wonderful views of the falls. The falls in addition to the changing color is quite a sight. Other than this, there are several trails that are harder. The overnight trails and the cable trails have a higher level of difficulty. The official "Fall Colors Weekend" for the park is the third week in October. The park is accessible from State Route 30-take park Road at marker 27000.

There are plenty of opportunities to do some Fall time hiking if you live in Middle Tennessee. Get out there and enjoy yourselves, and if you have another trail suggestion feel free to post it in the comment box.