THINGS TO DO | Tennessee State Parks offer a great alternative to the frenzy of shopping on Black Friday by hosting the annual Day After Thanksgiving hikes at parks across the state.

The guided or self-directed hikes on Nov. 24 are for all ages and abilities and range from easy strolls to rugged excursions. Details on hikes for each state park can be found at this link.

Tims Ford State Park near the Moore County, Franklin County line will host a hike that day at 9 a.m. Meet Ranger Kelsey at the Tims Ford State Park Nature Center for a hike on their Lost Creek Overlook Trail. This hike will be approximately three miles and features two suspension bridges and a beautiful view of Tims Ford Lake.

Be sure to bring sturdy hiking shoes, a daypack, water, and snacks to eat on the trail. Parks staff will hand out granola bars, which have been donated.

Hikers may also want to support the state parks’ Trail Pack program. Each $25 Trail Pack donation provides direct funding to the Tennessee State Parks trails program. For more information, visit this link. •

{The Lynchburg Times is a locally-owned community newspaper located in Lynchburg, Tennessee. We cover local news and events as well as the tourism and whiskey industries in southern, middle Tennessee. Click here to subscribe.}