Best Hiking Trails in Frozen Head State Park

15 reviews

Seasonal Popularity

Overview

Frozen Head State Park is a hidden gem among the Tennessee park system. This 24,000 acre park offers the dramatic landscapes and elevation change often associated with the nearby Smokey Mountains, but does not experience the crowds and congestion of some of the more heavily trafficked parks. With over 50 miles of interconnected trails and 10 back country campsites, Frozen Head has something for hikers of all skill levels.

Getting Started

Getting there: Frozen Head State Park is easily accessible from Interstate 40 and Interstate 75. For driving directions to the park, visit this page .

Crowds:

Frozen Head is open year round, with fall and spring being the busiest seasons. Even during peak visitation periods, there is typically ample parking at the visitor center and trail heads. A well planned parking lot and trail head system typically accommodates all traffic, even during the fall color and spring wildflower crowds. All roads and parking lots are paved or well maintained.

Highlights:

Frozen Head State Park offers an impressive variety of attractions, especially considering the relatively small size of the park. Perhaps most notable is the 3,324 foot Frozen Head Mountain peak which is often covered in snow or ice during winter months while the surrounding lower elevations remain below freezing. The lookout tower and observation deck on top of this peak offers 360 degree views from which the Great Smokey Mountains are visible to the east on clear days.

The spring wildflowers at Frozen Head are considered some of the best in the region with abundant displays of trillium, phlox, wild iris and nearly 100 other species. The park offers a wildflower checklist which can be found here

Fall foliage at Frozen Head is as impressive as the spring wildflower show, especially when viewed from the lookout tower. Mountain views, waterfalls, trout filled streams and a dramatic mountain landscape also provide something for every nature enthusiast.

Facilities:

Picnic pavilions and heated bathrooms with running and potable water are available at several trail heads including Old Mac, Big Cove and the visitor's center.

When to Go

Fall is the most popular time for visitors at Frozen Head with the spectacular autumn foliage drawing the largest crowds. Spring wildflowers are also a big draw for the park. Summer and winter are the best seasons for those who want to avoid the crowds and find solitude on the trails.

Permits

There are no fees to enter Frozen Head, but front country and back country camping do require paid permits. For information on fees or to purchase a permit online, click here .

Dog Info

Pets are allowed at Frozen Head, but must be on a leash at all times. For more information on pets in the Tennessee park system, visit [this site](https://tnstateparks.com/blog/can-i-bring-my-pet-to-the-park

olivia 6 months, 3 weeks ago

Old Mac Trail, Morgan County, TN, USA

my friend and i took this hike due to the “moderate” rating, last time we went hiking we were literally scaling a mountain. this hike seemed to be similar, one of us in front of the other. it was uphill most of the time, however my injury only allowed us to go so far before we had to turn around and head back. we were almost halfway. lots of signs to know you’re on the right trail. we saw signs for a lookout tower which we weren’t able to reach and the tubb springs, which i saw when searching for a trail, wish we could’ve seen them. would hike again when i’m healed. wore hiking boots, would not recommend anything other than that. wear long clothes due to the weeds in the path. very adventurous and difficulty was definitely moderate, definitely a great work out!

★ ★ ★ ★

huntchris885 9 months, 3 weeks ago

Chimney Top Mountain via Chimney Top Trail

Did this hike on June 25 2023. Started at the visitor center at Frozen Head State Park. Hike is about 3.3+ miles to top of Chimney Top Mountain. Probably moderate until the last .3 mile. The last .3 mile is so steep I would say it's difficult. The 1st 3 miles to the top are a moderate hike in the woods. Trail is very maintained and in great condition. The incline is pretty even and moderate for the 1st 3 miles. There are a couple rock formations along the way. The last .3 mile to the top is considerably steeper, maybe 25% incline. You will come to a rocky overhang near the top. This is a good place to rest and get out of the weather. From there you go a short distance, then turn right and start rock scrambling to the top. The top is maybe 50' above you ( from where you begin scrambling). The view is mostly obstructed by trees at the top. But you can see out alittle between the trees . There is a sign at the top that says " Chimney Top 3120' ". All in all, a good moderate 3-4 hour hike with the last .3 mile to the top being steep and therefore difficult. Trailhead is very easy to get to, right behind the Frozen Head Visitor center. Happy Trails

★ ★ ★ ★

tp1657 2 years, 6 months ago

Track (10/1/21, 10:08:32AM)

This was a challenging hike. So much so that it turned out to not be very much fun. I’m glad I did it but I doubt I’ll be doing it again. There was nothing to see except there were some huge old growth trees. I’ll be looking for more interesting hikes from now on.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★