Tennessee State Parks will celebrate National Trails Day with free, guided hikes at all 56 parks on Saturday, June 3.
Events will include free, ranger-led hikes through areas with waterfalls and scenic vistas as well as hikes focused on local history and trail clean-ups.
With more than 1,000 miles of trails ranging from easy, paved paths to rugged backcountry trails, there’s a hike for everyone. Several Tennessee State Natural Areas are hosting offering free, guided hikes at Short Springs Natural Area, Hampton Creek Cove State Natural Area and Big Cypress Tree State Natural Area.
“While Tennessee State Parks are free to enter year-round, this day is a great opportunity to get the most of your visit,” said Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation Deputy Commissioner of Parks and Conservation Brock Hill. “Under the skilled guidance of our rangers, visitors can enjoy the outdoors and learn more about the state parks system that we have been refining for 80 years.”
Since 1993, the American Hiking Society has set aside the first Saturday in June as National Trails Day. The goal is to bring together outdoor enthusiasts of all backgrounds to participate in educational exhibits, trail dedications, gear demonstrations, instructional workshops and trail projects.
The National Trails Day hikes represent the third in a series of statewide hiking events for 2017. Additional statewide hiking events include First Hikes in early January, Spring Hikes in March, National Public Lands Day Hikes in September and an After-Thanksgiving Day Hike in November.
A list of all National Trails Day hikes at Tennessee State Parks can be found at http://tnstateparks.com/about/special-events/national-trail-day/#/?holiday=national-trails-day-hikes.