Tennessee State Parks offer a great alternative to the frenzy of Black Friday shopping by hosting their annual Day After Thanksgiving hikes. Regionally, free, guided hikes will take place near Lynchburg as well as Manchester, Monteagle, and Chapel Hill.

The hikes take place on Friday, November 29 and are for all ages and abilities. They range from easy strolls to rugged excursions. Details on hikes for each state park can be found at this link.

Tims Ford State Park located along the Moore County, Franklin County line will offer a leisurely hike along Lost Creek Overlook Trail guided by Ranger Will Peters. The trail is moderately difficult with rolling hills, loose soils, and exposed roots. You’ll also get to cross not one but two wooden suspension bridges. It’s a great way to see the fall color over Tims Fork Lake. Click here to register for the free hike. And be sure to check out their gift shop for a local gift for your outdoor lover.

In Manchester, guides at Old Stone Fort State Park will lead hikers around the Enclosure Trail loop to work off those Turkey Day calories. The hike begins at 10 a.m. and should take about two hours. Click here to register for the free event.

In Monteagle, South Cumberland Ranger Hannah will meet hikers at the Grundy Forest Trailhead for a three-mile adventure to Sycamore Falls via the Grundy Forest Day Loop. It’s a moderately difficult hike with some rocky terrain and elevations of up to 80 feet. The trailhead address is 131 Fiery Gizzard Rd. Tracy City, Tennessee 37387 and you can click here to register for the free event. The event kicks off at 10 a.m.

In Chapel Hill, Henry Horton State Park will offer a laid back, 1.5 mile hike along their Hickory Ridge Trail. It’s an approximately 45 minute hike that is relatively easy with some rocky terrain. Hikers will go through some diverse ecosystems that include cedar glades, sinkholes, cedar forest, and hickory forests. The hike begins at 9:30 a.m. and you can click here to register for the free hike. Leashed dogs are welcome.

Be sure to bring sturdy hiking shoes, a daypack, water, and snacks to eat on the trail. 

For more information about all 59 Tennessee State Parks, click here. Or to shop at their online gift shop, follow this link. •

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