Cumberland Trail – Piney River Segment

Cumberland Trail. Piney River Segment. Shut-in Gap Road to Newby Branch Trailhead. 8.5 miles rated moderate. A vehicle shuttle is necessary. This hike is on the list of the Fran Wallas 36 Great Hikes in Tennessee. The “I hiked’em all” recognition information can be found at https://tennesseetrails.org/about/awards/. This hike passes through dense mountain laurel, rhododendron, hemlock and several large beech trees. We’ll see waterfalls, cascades, rock house, and bluffs along the trail. Five bridges cross various streams, and a 100-foot suspension bridge across the Piney River. April is one of the best months for wildflowers and we may see trout lily, lady slippers, jack-in-the-pulpit, wild iris, trillium and many more. Some spur trails, including Spider Den Bluff will be included if time permits. This is one of the best wildflower hikes in Tennessee! Bring lunch, snacks and plenty of water. For more information or to sign up, contact Sara Pollard at 615-714-3610 or sarabpollard@gmail.com.