Explore the Nature and Beauty of Kingsport at These Preserves and Parks

When you’re want to escape the hubbub of city life for some peace and quiet, you don’t have to travel too far from Kingsport, Tennessee, to find some beautiful spaces where you can get closer to nature. Here are some of the best parks and preserves in the area.

Kingsport Greenbelt

The easiest way to access nature from the city is the Kingsport Greenbelt which stretches 9 miles from one end of town to the other. With numerous entry points, the Greenbelt is a linear park that connects commercial districts, residential neighborhoods, and traditional parks.

It features more than 18 miles of walking trails and bike-friendly paths along rivers, creeks, wetlands, and forests. Walk above the wetlands on the boardwalk, see The Forks where two rivers merge into one, and watch for wildlife on the Kingsport Birding Trail.

Bays Mountain Park

Covering 3,500 acres, Bays Mountain Park in Kingsport is the largest city-owned park in Tennessee. With 39 miles of walking trails, you can hike up the mountain to take in the views from the fire tower, take a stroll around the 44-acre lake, or visit the waterfalls. For mountain bikers, 32 miles of trails provide a challenge for all skill levels.

The park is a nature preserve where you can visit the protected habitats of wolves, bobcats, red foxes, white-tail deer, river otters, reptiles, and turtles. Wildlife that you might spot around the park includes deer, raccoons, blue herons, geese, ducks, and beavers. Barge rides on the lake are available so you can view the park from the water.

Warriors’ Path State Park

Warriors’ Path State Park on the shores of the Patrick Henry Reservoir offers 950 acres for recreational activities. The park has 12 miles of hiking trails meandering along streams, through fields and forests, and over high bluffs. More than 12.5 miles of scenic trails are also available for mountain bikers.

To get you out on the water, the marina rents canoes, single and tandem kayaks, paddleboats, and paddleboards. Fishermen may be able to catch catfish, trout, bass, and crappie. Almost 120 bird types have been observed in the park including wetland, woodland, old field, and waterfowl species. To prolong your stay in the park, 134 campsites are available with tables and grills. Many of the sites have water and electric hook-ups.

Natural Tunnel State Park

Just over 20 miles northwest, across the state line in Virginia, is the Natural Tunnel State Park. The tunnel for which the park is named is 100 feet high and 850 feet long and was once called “the eighth wonder of the world.” Seven walking trails lead you to a number of unique features of the park including Lover’s Leap, Gorge Ridge, Tunnel Hill, and the tunnel itself.

Some fishing is available along Stock Creek with the chance of catching trout. For overnighters, there are campgrounds, yurts, and a lodge. For longer stays, cabins can be rented by the week.

Whether you want a short, peaceful stroll, a strenuous hike, or just to relax with nature, these locations offer the perfect getaway.

Image via Pixabay

Posted in Around Town | No Comments »