Walk 3 Short, Easy Trails at Panther Creek State Park TN

Panther Creek State Park is in Tennessee, just outside of Morristown. We will meet at the entrance to the park. The park covers approximately 1435 acres and is located on the shores of Cherokee Lake. The park offers a variety of recreational opportunities including camping, fishing, boating, picnicking, swimming, hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

The park boasts over 30 miles of world-class trails ranging from easy to difficult. Visitors are encouraged to Leave No Trace when using the trails. Hikers can enjoy a magnificent view of Cherokee Lake and the Cumberland Mountains.

We will do 2 hiking only trails and 1 hiking and biking trail. We will have to travel from trailhead to trailhead. I've tried to factor that into our time.

The Road to Recycling Trail is a 1.2 mile, easy, hiking only trail. This self-guided trail educates park visitors on the benefits of conserving natural resources. As such, there are signs along the trail. This trail was awarded the Governor's Greenways and Trails Stewardship Award in 2004.

The Seven Sinkholes Trail is a 0.6 mile loop, easy, hiking only trail. Sinkholes develop when rainfall dissolves the under-layer of porous limestone rock forming cavities. These cavities and depressions within the limestone gradually enlarge creating sinkholes. The trail meanders around seven distinct sinkholes before dipping into a lush valley of cedar and pine.

Old Wagon Trail is a 1 mile, easy, hiking and mountain biking trail. It appears on the map to be out-and-back 1 mile each way. It is the most popular trail at the park and is excellent for all ages and abilities. This trail follows the contour of Panther Creek and features a flat, wide surface. This is an excellent trail for the wildlife enthusiast, as many different birds and animals are frequently observed along the trail, especially in the early morning.

The park has restrooms in certain areas which we can visit before, between, and after the 3 walks. Dress appropriately for the weather; consider a hat and sunscreen. I believe tennis shoes are fine, unless it has rained recently, in which case you will probably want light hiking boots. Most won't want walking sticks, though I plan to take just one. As always, bring plenty of water and a protein snack. I have no information on limitations on dogs (although a park that has horses could hardly complain about dog owners who cleans up their pets' messes). Being easy trails, I would think trail strollers would work. Wheelchairs would probably work on Old Wagon Trail, although I'm not 100% certain.

I have no information on an entrance fee to the park. Come prepared just in case. The walk itself is free.

As you may surmise, I have not done this event previously. You are invited to come and try out this new place with me.