Location: Hampton Creek Cove State Natural Area, 760 Hampton Creek Rd, Roan Mountain, TN 37687
Start Time: 10:00am
Est End Time: 2:00pm
Distance: 5 Miles
Difficulty: 7/10 Difficult
Leaders: Katie Gray, Park Greer & David Hagler
Join us on this high-milage adventure through Hampton Creek Cove State Natural Area. This hike will utilize three trails, the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail, the Shell Hollow Trail, and the Birchfield Creek Trail. Starting from the parking area we will follow the footsteps of the Overmountain Victory Men, heroes of the Revolutionary War, who hiked this route in 1780 through Hampton Creek Cove! The Overmountain Victory Trail will take us to the Shell Hollow Trail which will take us deep into the woods and through stands of old growth forest that surround the old Shell family homestead. Once completed the Shell Hollow Trail we will hike further into the state natural area along the Birchfield Creek Trail which will reward well-deserving hikers with cool shade and crisp mountain water that is tumbling off the Roan. Participants will enjoy secluded swimming holes perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day, before returning to their cars.
This hike will cover lots of variable terrain in both open fields, creeks, and deep forested habitats. Participants should expect to hike 5 miles before returning to their car. We hope participants will join us after this hike for the SAHC Drop-in Social at our Little Cove Creek Preserve. The distance from Hampton Creek Cove to the Little Cove Creek Preserve is 8 miles (16 minute estimated drive time).
