Riverbank trails in Tennessee offer some of the most beautiful and peaceful hikes I’ve ever experienced. There’s something about walking alongside flowing water that makes each step more meditative. The way the light reflects off the surface, the sound of rushing current, and the scent of fresh foliage create a unique kind of serenity. For me, riverbank hikes with scenic views aren’t just about getting exercise—they’re about soaking in nature with all five senses.
Tennessee has hundreds of miles of rivers and streams, and many of them are accessible via trails that wind through forests, over bluffs, and alongside quiet coves. Whether I’m walking along the mighty Tennessee River or a smaller tributary like the Little River or Buffalo, I always discover something new—a surprising overlook, a hidden waterfall, or a quiet spot to sit and listen to nature. These are some of my favorite places for riverbank hikes with scenic views across the state.
Little River Trail – Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Little River Trail in the Elkmont area of the Smokies is one of the most rewarding riverside hikes I’ve done. The path follows the Little River for over six miles through a peaceful, wooded valley. It’s relatively flat, which makes it accessible for almost any fitness level, but it still delivers some big scenic payoffs.
I like to hike this one in the fall, when the leaves are golden and the river reflects the color like a mirror. You’ll pass by mossy boulders, remnants of old vacation cabins, and small cascades that make great photo stops. It’s a quiet, almost magical place, and it always reminds me why riverbank hikes with scenic views are my go-to form of therapy.
South Cumberland State Park – Fiery Gizzard Trail
While the Fiery Gizzard Trail is known for its rugged terrain and panoramic bluff views, there are stretches where the trail hugs the banks of Fiery Gizzard Creek, especially near the Grundy Forest Day Loop. These sections are some of the most stunning riverbank trails in Middle Tennessee.
I love how the trail weaves through dense hemlock and hardwood forests, passing over wooden bridges and past waterfalls. The views from the creekside paths are mesmerizing, especially after rain when the water runs fast and clear. It’s a perfect blend of forest hiking and riverside wandering.
Harpeth River Greenway – Nashville Area
When I want a scenic riverside hike closer to civilization, the Harpeth River Greenway is one of my top picks. It runs through several parks in the greater Nashville area, and some sections offer excellent river views with easy walking paths. Edwin Warner Park and the Harpeth River State Park sections are particularly picturesque.
One of the best spots is the Narrows of the Harpeth, where a short hike leads to both a historic tunnel and a breathtaking overlook of a horseshoe bend in the river. It’s one of the easiest ways to enjoy riverbank hikes with scenic views without traveling far from the city.
Hiwassee River Rail Trail – Reliance
The Hiwassee River Rail Trail offers a less-traveled but incredibly scenic hike along one of the state’s most beautiful rivers. Located in Southeast Tennessee, the trail follows an old railroad bed and offers wide views of the river, especially during the fall color season.
It’s a peaceful path that doesn’t see too much traffic, which makes it ideal for quiet mornings or contemplative strolls. I’ve walked this trail during early morning fog and again under a blazing sunset—each time, the light and river combined to create unforgettable views.
Big South Fork – Angel Falls Trail
The Angel Falls Trail in Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area follows the Cumberland River and ends at a set of rapids known as Angel Falls (not a vertical waterfall, but a wild cascade). The trail winds through deep woods, over rocky stretches, and past massive cliffs that add dramatic scenery to the hike.
This is one of those hikes where the river never leaves your side. I enjoy stopping at several points along the trail just to watch the water swirl around boulders and through narrow channels. The trail is also a great place to spot wildlife—I’ve seen deer, wild turkeys, and even river otters along the way.
Tellico River Trail – Cherokee National Forest
One of my favorite riverside hikes in East Tennessee is along the Tellico River. The Tellico River Trail doesn’t have a singular marked path but consists of multiple trailheads that connect to views of the river through the forest. The drive along River Road is beautiful on its own, but getting on foot offers a more intimate view of the area.
The Bald River Falls Trail, which follows a tributary of the Tellico, is another great addition to a river-focused hike. I’ve explored this area during both spring blooms and fall foliage, and the views never disappoint. Riverbank hikes with scenic views are always enhanced by the sound of rushing water and the sight of trout darting through pools.
Duck River Trail – Henry Horton State Park
The Duck River is one of the most biologically diverse rivers in North America, and hiking along its banks is always an educational and scenic experience. At Henry Horton State Park, there are multiple trails that bring you right to the river’s edge.
The Wilhoite Mill Trail is one I return to often. It’s not too long or difficult, but it loops through beautiful woodlands and offers several quiet river overlooks. The stillness of the water in some spots makes for perfect reflections, especially early in the morning.
North Chickamauga Creek Gorge
For a more challenging hike with unforgettable river views, the North Chickamauga Creek Gorge Trail near Chattanooga is a gem. The trail winds through a deep canyon, with the creek cascading alongside for much of the way. It’s rocky, rugged, and perfect for adventurers looking for a workout with their views.
There are several swimming holes and cascades along the way, and in fall the trail explodes with color. I’ve taken breaks on the rocks just to enjoy the sounds of the creek and the sight of sunlight filtering through orange and red leaves.
Buffalo River Trail – Wayne County
The Buffalo River Trail in Wayne County is more rustic and less trafficked than many of the others on this list, but that’s part of its charm. It follows one of the longest free-flowing rivers in Tennessee and passes through peaceful woods, farmland, and scenic bluffs.
I enjoy this trail in the spring, when wildflowers bloom along the banks and the river is full from seasonal rain. It’s a great spot for birdwatching, too, and I’ve often seen kingfishers, herons, and warblers along the route. For those who love riverbank hikes with scenic views but want solitude, this trail delivers.
Laurel-Snow State Natural Area
This area near Dayton offers a fantastic mix of waterfalls, river views, and steep ridgelines. The Laurel Creek and Richland Creek sections both offer riverbank hiking through deep forest and dramatic rock formations. I’ve hiked here in late summer and watched the creeks swell with recent rain, creating incredible photo opportunities.
The Laurel Falls Trail in particular gives a rewarding view of both river and waterfall, and it’s well worth the effort. The trails are moderately difficult, but the payoff is one of the most scenic riverside experiences in the state.
Tips for Riverbank Hiking
Whenever I go out for riverbank hikes with scenic views, I keep a few essentials in mind to make the experience more enjoyable. I always wear waterproof hiking boots or sturdy shoes that can handle wet ground and slippery rocks. A good map or GPS is useful, especially on trails that aren’t heavily marked.
I also pack snacks, water, and a lightweight rain jacket, since river weather can change quickly. Insect repellent is a must, particularly in spring and summer. And I never forget my camera—riverside hikes offer some of the best photo ops in Tennessee.
Most of all, I try to move slowly and notice the small things: the way sunlight flickers on the water, the tracks of animals in the mud, the changing colors of the trees across the seasons. These hikes are about more than reaching a destination—they’re about being present.
Conclusion
The beauty of riverbank hikes with scenic views in Tennessee is that they combine movement and mindfulness, adventure and tranquility. Whether you’re walking beside the Little River in the Smokies, exploring the bluffs along the Buffalo, or wandering through lesser-known stretches like the Hiwassee Rail Trail, each hike offers a unique way to experience the landscape.
I’ve found that time spent beside a flowing river slows me down in the best possible way. These trails don’t just show you where to go—they invite you to look closer, breathe deeper, and appreciate the wild, living beauty of Tennessee. If you’re searching for peace, perspective, and unforgettable views, riverbank hikes are the perfect path to follow.