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, Beersheba Springs, and Chapel Hill.
The hikes take place on Friday, November 28 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 Chipperfield. 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 and begins at 10 a.m. 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 meet at the museum to start the hike to their waterfalls and Native American mounds. The hike begins at 1 p.m. and should take about two hours. Click here to register for the free event.
In nearby Beersheba Spring, you can join Ranger Todd for a hike to explore the Stone Door. It’s a roughly a 2.5 mile moderate guided hike, surrounded by beautiful views of Savage Gulf and a unique perspective of the Stone Door. Guests should bring ample water, wear hiking appropriate shoes, and be comfortable moving over rocks and roots. It’s starts at 10 a.m. and you should meet at 1183 Stone Door Road in Beersheba Springs. Click here for more info.
In Chapel Hill, Henry Horton State Park will offer a laid back, 1.5 mile hike along their new green way trail. The hike will begin at the trail head, which is located beside the visitor’s center parking lot, at 10 a.m. 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 62 Tennessee State Parks, click here. Or to shop at their online gift shop, follow this link. •
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