Trail 17: Twin Arches
Overview
This short hike leads to one of the most surprising geologic features in Tennessee! The Twin Arches, a 130-foot span and 100-foot height feature you can walk over, around, and through. The surrounding forest is not shabby, either. This is a fantastic and memorable family hike, with some challenges sprinkled in. First, this hike is the farthest (by driving distance) of any in this book. Second, there are some rocky sections that require some carefulness. Still, this is a must-see, and it’s near many features (and places to camp) to make a visit more accommodating. Good for families with children of any walking age.
Key Characteristics
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Time Estimate | 1.5 hour - 2.5 hours |
| Trail Distance (Miles) | 1.2 |
| Elevation Change | Moderate |
| Pets | Allowed on leash |
| Parking Pass/Entrance Fee | Not Required |
| Restroom(s) | Yes |
| Best Ages | Little kids and Big kids |
| Strollers and Wheelchairs | Not accessible |
Directions to the Trailhead
Trailhead Address: Twin Arches Trailhead, G7V5+Q7 Jamestown, Tennessee
Trailhead GPS Coordinates: 36.48797, -84.69744
Trail Description
| Distance from Start | Description |
|---|---|
| 0.0 | Start on the Twin Arches trail. |
| 0.25 | Intersection. Head right to complete the loop in a counterclockwise section. |
| 0.3 | Stairs. |
| 0.5 | Arrive at the base of the Twin Arches. Head straight - you won’t be able to miss them! |
| 0.6 | Twin Arches. Walk along the top of the arches, under them, and around them, and then head back toward the loop portion of the trail. |
| 0.7 | Turn right at the intersection to complete the loop. |
| 0.95 | Intersection. Turn right to return to the trailhead. |
| 1.20 | Trailhead. |
Nearby
- Camp or rent a cabin at Pickett State Park. Pickett State Park (%ADDRESS OR WEBSITE%), a nice campground that also has both historic and modern cabins to rent, is close to this trail. It also features a great lake for kayaking, canoeing, or paddle boarding.
- View the night sky. Pickett State Park has a Silver-tier designation as an International Dark Sky Park. Even if you’re not strictly in the State Park, this is a great place to view stars and planets in the night sky.