Chinquapin Ridge Trail

Fall Creek Falls State Park

Rating: Strenuous

Chinquapin Ridge Trail is a more difficult trail located at the south end of the Fall Creek Falls State Park. Parking is available at Newton Ford Picnic Area. The short drive will bring you to a scenic trail which runs along the Chinquapin Ridge near Cane Creek. There are several moderate climbs, however most of the trail is fairly easy to ride. Once again, there are several side trips available for the adventurous. 

These trails will be in various conditions throughout the year as they are not maintained like the main trail. However, if you are interested in seeing some beautiful remote areas of the park, it is recommend that you explore some new trails. Please don't ride on the hiking trails. Be advised, this area is open to deer hunters the end of October and the first of November. Ask a park official or check the WMA schedule for specific dates. There is a 9 day period this trail will be closed to cyclists.

Directions:

From Nashville take I-40 East to Cookeville. Turn right onto 111 South (exit 288). Park entrance is on the left on Highway 284 (45 miles).

From Knoxville, take I-40 West to Crossville to Peavine (exit 322). Take a left off the exit, turn right at the light and follow Highway 101 to Highway 30.  Turn right on Hwy 30, park entrance is approximately 6 miles on the left.

From Atlanta, take I-75 North to Chattanooga, take I-24 toward Nashville, take Hwy 27 North toward Dayton and follow Highway 111 North to the park entrance on the right.

From the group campgrounds follow the main road south past the golf course toward the south entrance. When you reach the main intersection, turn left. Follow this road 2-2 1/2 miles until you cross Cane Creek. The trail head actually starts before you reach the river on top of the ridge. Look for the jeep road off to the right as you approach. You'll see Newton Ford Picnic Area just past the bridge. Park here then ride back across Cane Creek and up the hill to the trail head on the left.