The best walks and hikes in Johnson County

Embark on a challenging 14.6-mile (23.5 km) hiking journey on the Appalachian Trail from TN-421 to Damascus, a route that demands approximately 6 hours and 48 minutes to complete. You will gain 1512 feet (461 metres) in elevation, navigating varied terrain that includes dense forest canopies and rewarding long ridge walks. As you progress, keep an eye out for impressive views over the valley from McQueen Knob, offering a glimpse of the landscape before you reach the famous trail town of Damascus. This section is rated as difficult, making it suitable for experienced hikers seeking a robust adventure.

Before you set out, be aware of a significant Appalachian Trail closure and detour near Damascus, affecting a 9.2-mile section from US-58 at Straight Branch Trailhead to Grassy Ridge Road/VA 859. This detour is expected to remain in place through the 2026 season, so you will need to plan alternate routes or arrange shuttles to bypass the closed area. Parking is generally available at the TN-421 trailhead where you begin your hike, and also in Damascus, providing options for your logistics. Always check current trail conditions and advisories before your trip to ensure a smooth experience.

This segment of the Appalachian Trail winds through the beautiful Cherokee National Forest, offering a deep immersion into its natural environment. The trail is known for its challenging terrain, featuring roots and rocks, particularly as you pass through springtime rhododendron tunnels. Your destination, Damascus, is widely recognized as a pivotal and welcoming trail town for hikers, providing a sense of community and services after your demanding trek. This route offers a memorable experience for those who appreciate the rugged beauty and history of the Appalachian Trail.

The Damascus Loop offers a moderate hiking experience, blending diverse terrains and scenic views. You will navigate rocky, root-filled paths that climb to offer overlooks of Damascus, then transition to the gentle grade of an old railway bed. Along the Virginia Creeper Trail section, you'll hike beside Whitetop Laurel Creek, crossing picturesque trestles and bridges. This 6.9-mile (11.0 km) route involves an elevation gain of 1108 feet (338 metres) and typically takes around 3 hours and 19 minutes to complete. Keep an eye out for wildflowers and birds as you explore.

To begin your hike, head to Damascus City Park, which provides ample parking and serves as a convenient starting point for the loop. The town of Damascus is known for being very hiker-friendly, with the Appalachian Trail running directly through its main street. You will find various amenities and outfitters in town to support your adventure before or after your hike. Consider starting your journey early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds on the trail.

This route is notable for combining sections of the famous Appalachian Trail, the scenic Virginia Creeper Trail, and the historic Iron Mountain Trail. This unique combination allows you to experience different facets of the region's trail network within a single loop. The varied landscape, from riverside paths to elevated viewpoints, showcases why Damascus is celebrated as "Trail Town USA".

Embark on a moderate hike along the Appalachian Trail from TN 91 to Low Gap, a journey spanning 6.4 miles (10.3 km) with an elevation gain of 834 feet (254 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 2 hours and 58 minutes. As you traverse this section, you'll move from open fields, sometimes dotted with livestock, into dense, vibrant green forests that can feel like a 'green tunnel' during warmer months. Keep an eye out for potential distant views of South Holston Lake when the tree canopy is thinner, and enjoy the scenic vistas from Locust Knob, a notable high-elevation point along the way.

This segment of the Appalachian Trail is generally well-marked and easily accessible for hikers. You will find convenient parking available at the TN 91 trailhead, located on Cross Mountain. For those planning a longer day or needing a break, the Double Springs Shelter is a common and useful stop along the route, providing a water source.

This trail offers a diverse experience within the beautiful Cherokee National Forest, showcasing varied Tennessee landscapes. It's a great way to immerse yourself in the natural environment, moving through different types of terrain and enjoying the changing scenery. The route provides a taste of the iconic Appalachian Trail, making it a significant and rewarding option for a day hike in the region.

Prepare for a difficult hike on the Iron Mountain Via Appalachian Trail, a challenging route spanning 15.9 miles (25.6 km) with a significant elevation gain of 1877 feet (572 metres). You can expect to spend around 7 hours and 29 minutes navigating this rugged terrain. As you hike, you will pass through mature woods, eventually reaching the Iron Mountain vistas which offer panoramic views of the Doe and Shady Valleys below.

This trail is known for its solitude, being less popular than some other routes in the area. While water sources are generally available along the way, be aware that you might need to leave the main trail to find them. It's also important to note that some springs can dry up during periods of low rainfall, so plan your water supply accordingly.

The route takes you through the Big Laurel Branch Wilderness, showcasing the typical ecology of the Blue Ridge Mountains with its mixed oak forests. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including deer and black bears, which are common in this natural setting. This trail offers a true wilderness experience for hikers seeking a demanding journey.

Embark on a challenging hike along the Virginia Creeper Trail from Abingdon to Damascus, a route that stretches for 32.7 miles (52.7 km). You will experience a diverse landscape as the trail follows a former rail bed, winding through rolling hills, farmlands, and dense mountain forests. Expect to gain 1394 feet (425 metres) in elevation, a journey that typically takes around 13 hours and 48 minutes to complete. Along the way, you will cross many of the trail's 47 trestles and bridges, enjoying views of the South Fork of the Holston River and various creeks, including the notable Holston River Confluence.

Before you plan your visit, it is crucial to be aware of recent events. The Virginia Creeper Trail sustained severe damage in September 2024 due to Hurricane Helene, which destroyed eighteen trestles and washed away seventeen miles of the trail. This has led to partial closures, so you must check local resources for current trail conditions and open sections before heading out. This will help you plan your access points and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the available parts of the route.

This difficult route offers a unique opportunity to explore a historic rail-to-trail conversion within the beautiful George Washington and Jefferson National Forests. The path transitions between open pastures and more secluded wooded sections, providing a varied backdrop for your adventure. The trail's history as a railway adds a distinct character, making it more than just a hike; it is a journey through a piece of local heritage and natural beauty.

Embark on an easy hike along the Laurel Creek Trail, a gentle 1.2-mile (2.0 km) path that takes just over 30 minutes to complete. You will gain a minimal 23 feet (7 metres) in elevation, making it perfect for a relaxed outing. As you follow the old railroad grade, the clear mountain creek flows calmly beside you, offering reflective surfaces and small cascades. Towering hardwoods provide a shaded canopy, and you might even discover playful statues hidden along the well-marked route. The forest floor is rich with ferns and wildflowers, creating a peaceful atmosphere for your walk.

This well-maintained trail is easily accessible and ideal if you are looking for a relaxing nature walk. Since it is part of an East Tennessee Rails-to-Trails project, access is straightforward, making it a great choice for a family-friendly outing. You will find several quiet spots near the creek that are perfect for resting or enjoying a picnic. Consider visiting during the warmer months to fully appreciate the lush canopy and creek views.

The Laurel Creek Trail is nestled within the Cherokee National Forest in Johnson County, Tennessee. Its unique history as an old railroad grade contributes to its gentle incline, making it suitable for many hikers. This route stands out as a prime example of the region's commitment to converting old rail lines into accessible recreational paths, offering a glimpse into both natural beauty and local heritage.

Embark on the Appalachian and Virginia Creeper Trail Loop, a difficult hike spanning 55.1 miles (88.7 km) with a significant elevation gain of 8561 feet (2609 metres). This challenging route typically takes around 26 hours and 2 minutes to complete. You will experience a diverse landscape, blending the gentle paths of the Virginia Creeper Trail with the rugged, mountainous sections of the Appalachian Trail. Expect to wander through lush forests and open farmlands, passing picturesque streams like Whitetop Laurel Creek. The trail also features nearly 50 wooden trestle bridges, providing elevated views over valleys and streams.

Planning your trip for this extensive loop is key, especially given its difficult rating. Damascus, often called "Trail Town USA," serves as a central hub for the route, providing amenities and shuttle services if you need them. Parking for the loop is available in Damascus and at other access points along the way. Be aware that while the Virginia Creeper Trail is generally accessible, the Appalachian Trail sections involve steep climbs and rocky paths, adding to the overall challenge.

This loop offers a unique combination of two distinct trail experiences. You get to enjoy the historic Virginia Creeper Trail, which follows an old railway line, alongside the iconic Appalachian Trail. In spring, you might see vibrant rhododendrons and mountain laurels blooming along the path, adding to the natural beauty. The blend of a historic rail-trail with the more rugged Appalachian Trail makes this a notable adventure in the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area.

Embark on a challenging hiking adventure combining two iconic paths with the Appalachian Trail and Virginia Creeper Trail Loop. This difficult route spans 37.1 miles (59.8 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 5288 feet (1612 metres), typically requiring around 17 hours and 33 minutes to complete. You will experience a diverse landscape, from the smooth, forested sections of the Virginia Creeper Trail, crossing restored wooden trestles over picturesque streams like Whitetop Laurel Creek, to the rugged climbs and panoramic vistas found along the Appalachian Trail sections.

Before you set out, it is crucial to check for current conditions and any potential detours. As of October 2025, an 18-mile section of the Virginia Creeper Trail between Damascus and Whitetop is closed due to hurricane damage, with repairs anticipated. Additionally, a 9.2-mile segment of the Appalachian Trail near Damascus has a closure and detour in place from 2024 through the 2026 season for ongoing construction. Always plan your visit carefully to ensure a smooth and safe experience.

This loop offers a unique contrast within the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, blending the gentle, almost flat grades of a former rail-trail with the demanding ascents of a world-renowned long-distance hiking path. You will traverse lush forests and open farmlands, encountering diverse ecosystems along the way. It is a memorable journey that provides both serene riverside stretches and rewarding, strenuous climbs, showcasing the distinct character of each trail.

Discover a pleasant hiking experience on this easy section of the Virginia Creeper Trail. You will cover 3.8 miles (6.1 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 108 feet (33 metres), making it a perfect outing for about 1 hour and 34 minutes. As you hike, you will pass through open farmlands, dense forests, and even Christmas tree farms, crossing numerous wooden trestles that offer picturesque views of rushing streams like Whitetop Laurel Creek.

This particular route begins conveniently near Damascus City Park, providing easy access to the trail. While the trail is generally well-maintained, it is always a good idea to check for current conditions before you head out, especially since parts of the longer Virginia Creeper Trail have experienced closures in the past due to hurricane damage. Consider starting your hike in the morning to enjoy the tranquility and potentially spot some local wildlife.

The Virginia Creeper Trail is a historic route known for its scenic beauty and diverse environment. Keep an eye out for great blue herons near the waterways as you explore. After your hike, you might enjoy a visit to The Damascus Brewery, which is a notable highlight along this section of the trail and offers a great way to relax and reflect on your outdoor adventure.