Vermont, Colorado, Oregon, Montana, and Alaska--all just a few places I would love to visit and explore; not for the touristy attractions or even the National Parks (although that would be great too!), but to explore the hidden places, the not so well known places that are secluded, the gems, the treasures hidden for those only brave enough to explore. Those are places I want to go. And one day I'll get there, and I'll be able to take those adventures.

But for now, here I am--in good ole Tennessee. And there are some pretty phenomenal places here too!

Grundy Forest State Natural Area

Fiery Gizzard Trail

Grundy Forest State Natural Area is located near Tracy TN, approximately an hour Northwest of Chattanooga. This particular trail makes a great day trip coming in at close to 9 miles. Along the trail, there are various views of waterfalls, panoramic overlooks, cascading streams, and beautiful rock formations. This place is one of my favorites because every time I go here, I feel as if I am walking into an enchanted forest.

Stinging Fork Falls Trail

This place is my top choice out of every place I've been--yet. Fairly short, but semi-strenuous, the hike is all downward sloped to the falls; however, reaching the falls is so rewarding. The seclusion here is perfect for an afternoon alone to float and just enjoy the moment.

Old Stone Fork State Park

Old Stone Fort Loop Trail

Although this trail is more populated than I would like, I still love going here for the rich history and beautiful scenery. Walking downstream and jumping from rock to rock to find a quiet place to hang my hammock is the best part of each adventure.

Virgin Falls State Natural Area

Amber's Den Ridge Trail

Virgin Falls is a little too populated for me, therefore I look for alternatives. Located near Sparta TN, this trail does not have a lot of foot traffic, which is great for solitude. At approximately 5 miles, this trail is an out-and-back with the option of making it a loop via a gravel road. Pictured here is Welch's point which looks over the Caney Fork River.

Walls of Jericho Trail

This trail is located near Hytop, AL; however, it crosses the state line just a little bit into TN, making it a qualifier for my list. Behind this massive rock-wall formation is a gorge in which a waterfall runs into. Although only 6 miles, this trail offers a campsite so you can plan a weekend trip here.

Edgar Evins State Park

John C Clayborn Millenium Trail

I overlooked this trail for a long time and I was sure missing out! Edgar Evins is near Baxter TN, adjacent to Center Hill Lake. This hike is moderate to hard with a pretty extensive uphill trek. The view is beautiful, though, overlooking the whole lake. With a couple connector trails, one has the option to extend the hike to a full 8 miles, but also the option of doing shorter trails clocking in around 3 and 6 miles. Warning, though, if the full hike isn't taken, the view will also be missed.

Waterloo Falls

Located near Cookeville, TN, in Overton County, this falls is pretty popular with all the Tennessee Tech students. Again, crowds are not my cup of tea. I decided to venture downstream a little ways and found this second falls. I'm not sure if it has a name, but it's definitely a good place to be. Secluded, quiet, and right up my ally, this makes for a good hike. To get to the first falls, no hiking is required, and what's the fun in that? So if you ever find yourself here, walk down the river and take an adventure.

Cumberland Mountain State Park

Black Mountain Trail

Located in Crab Orchard, TN, this trail is another one of my favorites (But, who am I kidding, I'm pretty sure they are all my favorites!) Being only around 2 miles, this trail has a thru trail to the CT, with an addition of about 3.5 miles. The overlook is stunning with views of Grassy Cove and Grandview.

Bee Rock

Bee Rock is a hop, skip, and a jump from the parking lot, but the short stroll leads to an amazing view and terrific for all you rock climbers out there. However, this piece of land is private property owned by a Bed and Breakfast in Monterey, TN. They do allow folks to venture here, but only between a certain time frame. The owners are extremely nice, so if you ever venture here, please be aware that it is private property and clean up after yourselves. We would hate for this beautiful place to become off limits.

Laurel-Snow State Natural Area

This area is beautiful, located near Dayton, TN, it's a hike definitely worth the visit! The site of an old coal mine, there are train tracks that run through the area, also a very cool tunnel that makes for quite the adventure--just be sure to take a flashlight. The bridge to get to the falls is damaged, so you can either be cautious and stop there, or take on the challenge of finding your way across the bridge (or just walk through the river). The cascading stream is a sweet, sweet sound to my ears, so it makes for another great place to set up the hammock for an afternoon nap.