Between Chattanooga And Lynchburg Is Tennessee's Serene State Forest With Trails, Wildlife, And Scenic Views

If you've been to Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga and want to see the wilder side of Tennessee, drive 45 miles west toward Sherwood. Here, you'll find Franklin State Forest, a sprawling forest sitting on the Cumberland Plateau. This peaceful escape flies under the radar for many driving along Interstate 24 through south-central Tennessee. Those who discover it will find a retreat where seasonal waterfalls flow over limestone cliffs, and hardwood-pine forest provides shade for miles of dirt roads and hiking trails. Along the outer edges, multiple overlooks open up to views of the rolling countryside and surrounding valley.

Franklin State Forest stretches for just over 8,800 acres across Marion and Franklin counties. According to the Tennessee Department of Agriculture's website, before the state acquired the initial land from Cross Creek Coal Company in 1936, the property had been heavily logged and damaged by uncontrolled wildfires. After the Tennessee Division of Forestry assumed management in 1940, the agency began restoring the degraded property. In 2008, the state added the larger northern section through a land swap with the University of the South and purchased additional acreage in the southwest from Sherwood Mining Company, completing the forest's current footprint. Over the years, hickories and pine trees have become a haven for various wildlife that call the forest home.

The forest is tucked roughly halfway between Chattanooga and Lynchburg, making it a convenient stop on a road trip through the region. The forest is open during posted visiting hours, and backcountry camping requires a written permit from the district forester. But if you need a place to stay, there are several towns within 20 miles of the forest, including the town of Kimball, the "Gateway to the Sequatchie Valley."

Franklin State Forest is similar to Tennessee's Cherokee National Forest, boasting breathtaking trails with scenic views. "This place is an attraction for anyone with outdoor interests. It has lakes for fishing, trails for hiking and biking and has a few nice waterfalls," remarked a Google reviewer. More than 30 miles of hiking trails wind through the forest. Local horseback riders know these woodlands well, often riding along designated trails on weekends. It was once a favorite spot for off-roaders, but now motorized vehicle access is limited to designated unpaved roads to protect the land from further damage.

If you're on foot, start with the 2-mile Tom Pack Falls Loop. The moderate trail takes you through the peaceful forest, with several stream crossings. The highlight? Tom Pack Falls tumbling over a dramatic rock shelter. Visit after a good downpour to catch the cascade at its strongest. Past hikers mention the path can be overgrown, but still praise the woodland scenery. For a backcountry adventure, try the East Rim Loop. On this forested 6-mile path, expect views of the rolling peaks and valleys as you hike along the ridge.

Although not well-maintained, an AllTrails user enjoyed the scenes along the North Rim Trail: "There are some great overlooks and the streams that cross the trail are subtly beautiful." If you don't run into another hiker, the wildlife will keep you company. Be on the lookout for deer and turtles near the waterways, while some Google reviewers have also reported seeing raccoons and coyotes. The forest is also known for birdwatching, with woodpeckers, chickadees, hawks, and other raptors among the species spotted in the area. If you're making your way east, stop by Chattanooga, crowned America's first-ever National Park City. It's a must-visit.