Let's Explore: Old Stone Fort State Park - First Day Hike!

Tennessee State Parks have a bit of a tradition of offering free ranger led First Day Hikes at many State Parks. I've chosen to attend a First Day Hike at Old Stone Fort State Park!

About the event:
Start the New Year on the right-foot literally! Join us for our First Day Hike, a tradition that combines fresh air, fitness, and camaraderie. Come clear your mind, set positive intentions for the year, and embrace the promise of new beginnings. We will meet at the Museum at 1:00PM for our hike! Be sure to dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water to stay hydrated. Let's make this First Day Hike a memorable start to a year filled with adventure and discovery.

Meeting Point: Top of Museum
LET'S MEET AT 12 PM to have some snacks and chat before the hike.
Hike times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Hosted by Ranger Gage Jackson ([gage.t.jackson@tn.gov](mailto:gage.t.jackson@tn.gov))

REGISTER for FREE here:
https://tnstateparks.com/events/details/#/?event=firstdayhike
As of 12/29 @ 2pm - 25 tickets were left.

About the Park from the web:
"The park is home to an abundance of activities for guests to enjoy. The main hiking trail follows the wall of Old Stone Fort which was used by the Native Americans as a ceremonial gathering place. The trail threads through dramatic scenery where you can see the original entrance of the fort which was designed to face the exact spot on the horizon where the sun rises during the summer solstice. Visitors can learn about the Old Stone Fort on this hike with twelve interpretive panels as well as enjoying the areas graceful waterfalls."
https://tnstateparks.com/parks/old-stone-fort
It is approximately 1 hour from Nashville.

About the Trail from the web:
"Enclosure Trail - 1.40 Miles - Easy to Moderate. Accessed behind the stone museum building, the trail has a set of 12 interpretive signs to help explain the enclosure site along the way. The path is a loop that follows the perimeter of the fort, traveling along the deep gorges cut by the rivers on either side of the site. It first goes between the two pedestal mounds flanking an entrance to the enclosure. The entrance was designed to face the exact spot on the horizon where the sun rises during the summer solstice. Step Falls, Blue Hole Falls, and Big Falls can be viewed from the trail, as well as remnants of an old paper mill foundation. Please use caution by the cliff area."
https://tnstateparks.com/parks/activity-detail/old-stone-fort-hiking

LOCATION:
Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park
732 Stone Fort Drive
Manchester, TN 37355
931-461-7676