Lakeside trails in Tennessee offer a perfect mix of water views, forest paths, and wildlife encounters. I’ve spent countless weekends exploring these serene routes, and I’m always amazed at how each trail offers something different—from dramatic lake overlooks to quiet, shaded walks along the shoreline. If you’re craving fresh air and want to experience the outdoors in a way that connects you to both land and water, the top hiking trails around Tennessee lakes will deliver.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker looking for a challenge or a beginner wanting an easy loop with lake views, these trails can become the highlight of any Tennessee adventure. Some wrap around massive reservoirs while others meander through hidden coves and quiet woodland. Here’s a look at some of my favorite hikes that offer the best of both worlds: tranquil forests and sparkling lake views.
Norris Lake – Lakeside Trail at Norris Dam State Park
Norris Lake is one of my top picks for a full day of exploring, especially when I want a peaceful hike with consistent lake views. The Lakeside Trail at Norris Dam State Park is an out-and-back trail that follows the edge of the lake through gentle slopes and shaded woodlands.
What I love about this trail is how close it keeps you to the water. There are benches where I’ve stopped to take in the quiet and even a few areas where you can dip your feet in during warmer months. It’s around 4 miles round-trip, making it accessible for most hikers, including families and older adults.
Percy Priest Lake – Couchville Lake Loop in Long Hunter State Park
Just a short drive from Nashville, Percy Priest Lake offers one of the most family-friendly lake hikes in the state. The Couchville Lake Trail is a paved, 2-mile loop around a quiet lake within Long Hunter State Park. While it’s technically not on Percy Priest itself, the proximity and lake setting make it worth including.
I’ve walked this loop with friends, family, and even pets. It’s smooth enough for strollers and wheelchairs and offers excellent wildlife viewing. On calm mornings, you might catch a glimpse of deer, herons, or turtles sunning on logs. The loop also features interpretive signs that highlight local plants and animals, making it a favorite educational trail as well.
Reelfoot Lake – Keystone Trail and Boardwalks
Reelfoot Lake is unlike any other lake in Tennessee, and its trails reflect that uniqueness. Formed by a series of earthquakes in the early 1800s, the lake features shallow waters, bald cypress trees, and rich wildlife. I always start with the Keystone Trail, which is less than a mile long but connects to a network of boardwalks and shorter paths.
These trails are easy but incredibly scenic, perfect for birdwatching and photography. Bald eagles, great blue herons, and even pelicans frequent the lake’s shallow waters. If you visit in the early morning or late afternoon, the light filtering through the cypress trees makes for stunning photos.
Center Hill Lake – Merritt Ridge Trail at Edgar Evins State Park
Edgar Evins State Park, located on the scenic bluffs above Center Hill Lake, offers one of the most rugged and rewarding hikes I’ve done near any Tennessee lake. The Merritt Ridge Trail is a 5-mile loop with challenging elevation changes, but it rewards you with panoramic views of the lake and thick forest canopy.
If you enjoy a hike that feels remote and untouched, this one’s a gem. Wildflowers bloom along the ridge in spring, and the lake sparkles below from several overlook points. It’s best to start early, especially during warmer months, and bring plenty of water.
Douglas Lake – Dandridge Partnership Trail
Tucked away near the small town of Dandridge, the Dandridge Partnership Trail runs along Douglas Lake and offers a peaceful, moderately easy hike that feels far removed from busy parks. This trail is relatively flat but still gives you consistent glimpses of the water and nearby mountains.
What sets this trail apart is its solitude. I rarely run into crowds here, which makes it ideal when I want to escape for a quiet walk. There are also picnic spots along the way, perfect for a lakeside lunch with a view.
Tims Ford Lake – Lost Creek Overlook Trail
Tims Ford Lake in south-central Tennessee has become one of my favorite escapes for both paddling and hiking. The Lost Creek Overlook Trail is just over 2 miles and winds through hardwood forest before arriving at a stunning overlook of the lake.
I’ve hiked this one at sunrise and sunset, and both times were magical. The trail is moderate with a few rocky patches, so a good pair of hiking shoes makes a difference. Because of its relatively short length, I often pair this hike with a picnic or a paddle trip.
Watauga Lake – Appalachian Trail Section from Watauga Dam
For a true hiking adventure, the section of the Appalachian Trail that passes over Watauga Dam is unbeatable. It’s not your average day hike, but I’ve tackled parts of it as an out-and-back, and it never disappoints. The trail follows high ridgelines with views of the lake below, and the combination of mountain and water scenery is hard to beat.
The elevation gain is significant in spots, so this is best for experienced hikers, but even short portions of this route offer great views and memorable moments. I always bring a camera when I hike here—sunlight reflecting off the lake from that high up is something worth capturing.
Tellico Lake – East Lakeshore Trail
Located along the eastern side of Tellico Lake, the East Lakeshore Trail is part of a network of connected segments totaling over 30 miles. I’ve explored a few of these trailheads, and each section offers its own charm. Most portions are relatively flat, shaded, and dog-friendly.
I often start at the Glendale or Coytee trailheads and enjoy a couple hours of easy hiking beside the water. There are plenty of access points for swimming or taking a break by the shore, which makes it ideal for summer afternoons. The trail is also open year-round, and fall is especially beautiful as the leaves reflect in the lake water.
Pickwick Lake – Bruton Branch Trail
Located within Pickwick Landing State Park, the Bruton Branch Trail is a less-traveled option for lake lovers. It’s a short, wooded trail that runs near a small branch of Pickwick Lake, and while it’s not as dramatic as some of the bluffs or ridgelines, it offers peace and quiet in abundance.
I like this trail for an easy afternoon hike or a warm-up walk before heading out on the lake. It connects with nearby picnic areas and campgrounds, making it a convenient option for those staying overnight or visiting with family.
Cherokee Lake – Panther Creek State Park Trails
Panther Creek State Park near Cherokee Lake has more than 30 miles of trails, but the ones that hug the lake are my favorite. The Deer Run Trail and Trout Lily Trail both offer moderate hikes with rewarding views of the lake, especially when the water level is high.
These trails wind through hills and wooded terrain with frequent glimpses of the lake and surrounding hills. I usually bring my dog along on these hikes, as they’re pet-friendly and offer shaded areas where we can take a break.
Tips for Hiking Around Tennessee Lakes
After years of exploring these lakeside gems, I’ve picked up a few tricks to make the most out of every hike:
- Start early: Morning hikes offer cooler temperatures, less foot traffic, and better chances of spotting wildlife.
- Bring layers: Even warm days can start out chilly near water. A lightweight jacket or hoodie is worth having.
- Stay hydrated: Tennessee humidity can sneak up on you. I never hit the trail without a reusable water bottle.
- Watch your footing: Lakeside trails often have slick rocks, roots, or uneven ground. Good shoes make all the difference.
- Respect the environment: Many of these trails are part of protected ecosystems. Leave no trace and stay on marked paths.
Final Thoughts
Lakeside hikes offer a special kind of tranquility—the sound of water lapping against the shore, birds calling from treetops, and the occasional splash from a turtle or fish. The top hiking trails around Tennessee lakes combine the state’s best features: lush forests, vibrant wildlife, and shimmering blue water.
These hikes have become more than just weekend getaways for me. They’re places of clarity, restoration, and simple joy. Whether you’re walking a quiet loop in Nashville or climbing a bluff above Watauga, the trails around Tennessee’s lakes are ready to offer something meaningful in return.
So lace up your boots, pack your water, and hit the trail. Tennessee’s lakes are calling, and the paths around them promise unforgettable journeys.