Big South Fork: A Hiker's Paradise

Slow Down and Explore the Big South Fork

Just a short drive from Nashville, Knoxville, Lexington, Asheville, Louisville, AND Chattanooga is the Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area, a 125,000 acre National Park that protects the Cumberland Plateau and is located in both Tennessee and Kentucky. Big South Fork is managed to promote its vast array of recreational opportunities and is a paradise for hikers.

The park's hundreds of miles of hiking trails lead hikers and explorers right by stunning rock formations and beautiful scenic landscaping. Waterfalls, wildlife (including whitetail deer, wild turkey, and black bear), natural arches, rock houses, and cave-like structures are among the many great features of the Big South Fork backcountry. Big South Fork is truly a four-season park for people to use and enjoy so come often and see the different faces the park wears during each season.

Hiking Trails for All

Among the many activities the park offers, hiking tops the list as trails at the Big South Fork range from short, easy hikes to long-distance overnight hikes. Leatherwood Ford, located on S.R. 297 just east of Laurel Fork Rustic Retreat, is the southern terminus for the Sheltowee Trace National Recreational Trail, which travels through Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area and the Daniel Boone National Forest.

It is also the southern terminus for the John Muir Trail, another long-distance trail traveling through Big South Fork and Pickett State Forest. Get a better look at the range of hiking trails in the Big South Fork with this Hiking Trailhead Map.

Popular Hikes at Big South Fork

Some of the most popular hikes include Angel Falls Overlook (moderate/difficult), Angel Falls Rapids (Easy), John Litton Farm Loop (moderate), and Twin Arches Upper Loop (Easy/Moderate). For a complete list of the most popular hiking trails in the Big South Fork see our Popular Hiking Trails Quick Guide.

Lodging for Hikers at Big South Fork

Hit the trails by day, and soak in a hot tub by night at Laurel Fork Rustic Retreat! Laurel Fork Rustic Retreat borders the Big South Fork National Park, giving you direct access to some of the best hiking trails in the park.

The retreat has different cabin size options, easily accommodating you and your hiking group throughout the year. Find your perfect cabin for the perfect hike!