Little Cedar Mountain Loop Trail

While generally considered easy for hiking, jogging on this trail presents a mix of challenges. You'll find a soft footbed in wooded areas, but also encounter rock outcrops, rocky sections, and occasional downed trees. Expect some level sections, gentle inclines, and a few steep climbs that require careful foot placement.

No, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access the Little Cedar Mountain Small Wild Area or its trails. It is managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and is freely accessible to the public.

Parking is available directly at the trailhead. The trail's convenient location near Jasper, Tennessee, just off I-24 and close to Nickajack Dam, makes it easily accessible by car.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly! Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to help maintain the natural beauty of the area for all visitors.

The trail offers excellent scenery, including stunning panoramic views of Nickajack Lake from overlooks like the Little Cedar Mountain Overlook. You'll pass through diverse wooded areas with tall pines and hardwoods. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as deer, turkey, osprey, and even bald eagles. The optional Pond Trail leads to a wetland forest pond, home to amphibians like frogs and salamanders, and insects like dragonflies.

Spring is particularly beautiful, as the trail is known for a wide variety of wildflowers, including Twinleaf, stonecrop, larkspur, fire pink, and the rare hoary puccoon. The overlooks of Nickajack Lake are especially impressive when the sun hits the water just right, making clear days ideal.

The primary highlight is the Little Cedar Mountain Overlook, offering stunning panoramic views of Nickajack Lake. Other notable features include diverse spring wildflowers, an old stone wall, and the unique wetland forest pond accessible via the optional Pond Trail.

Yes, the route primarily follows the LCM Loop Trail, covering 100% of it. It also includes sections of the Pond Trail, which makes up about 38% of the route.

Given the varied terrain with rocky sections and inclines, sturdy trail running shoes are recommended. Bring water, especially on warmer days, and consider insect repellent, particularly if you plan to explore the Pond Trail. A camera is also a good idea for capturing the scenic views.

While the trail is generally considered easy for hiking, the varied terrain with rocky sections and some steep climbs might be challenging for very young children or those unaccustomed to uneven surfaces. However, older children and active families will likely enjoy the diverse scenery and wildlife spotting opportunities.

The main Little Cedar Mountain Loop Trail is approximately 3.2 to 3.4 miles long. There is an optional 1-mile "Pond Trail" connector that leads to a unique wetland forest pond, offering an extended experience.