Cumberland Mountain State Park has six hiking trails, ranging from easy to moderate/difficult. All are natural-surface trails and give hikers an excuse to get out of their Cumberland Mountain State Park cabins and take in beautiful views of the park and local wildlife.
Just shy of six miles in length, Overnight Trail is the longest and most difficult of the park's trails. Some stretches can be particularly strenuous, so it's best for experienced hikers.
An easy trail under two miles long, Pioneer Loop is good for families and takes hikers through a hemlock forest. It’s a perfect day trip if you’re staying at Cumberland Mountain State Park cabins.
If you're looking for a short, easy trail with excellent views, try Byrd Lake Trail. This simple hike will let you and your family explore some of the park on foot while enjoying views of the lake.
If you really want to get the most out of your outdoor experience, Cumberland Plateau Nature Trail might be the best option for your hike. Along the winding mile-long path, you'll encounter waterfalls, views of the Great Smoky Mountains, and local wildlife such as elk.
Mountain State Park is at its best during the summer months, when families can take part in water sports, wildlife exploration, and camping. Cumberland Mountain State Park hotels are also a good place to begin your Tennessee vacation.
Boats, canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards are available to rent at the park to use on Byrd Lake. The boat dock is open from Memorial Day through October. Fishing is also popular on the lake, which is swimming with trout, bass, catfish, and bluegill.
The park has a short mountain bike trail that is ideal for beginners of every age hoping to improve their skills. Helmets are required on the trail.
Hit the links at the Bear Trace at Cumberland Mountain golf course. The lush Jack Nicklaus-designed course incorporates the park’s natural beauty into its features.
No family vacation would be complete without a day or two in the water. In addition to Byrd Lake, Cumberland Mountain State Park offers swimmers an Olympic-size pool that is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day.