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Tennessee
19

Tennessee State Parks

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USA Parks
Tennessee
East Region
Morgan State Forest
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MORGAN STATE FOREST
MORGAN STATE FOREST
Located in eastern Tennessee, Morgan State Forest is a picturesque natural reserve encompassing approximately 10,000 acres of diverse terrain. This forest offers a harmonious blend of towering hardwood trees, dense evergreen thickets, and vibrant wildflower meadows, providing a habitat for a variety of plant and animal species. Its well-maintained trails wind through majestic landscapes, guiding visitors to enchanting waterfalls, pristine streams, and tranquil lakes. As an idyllic haven for outdoor enthusiasts, Morgan State Forest offers opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, wildlife observation, and immersive nature experiences, creating a captivating retreat for those seeking solace in the heart of Tennessee's natural beauty.
History of the Area
The forest was established in 1935 as part of the Tennessee Division of Forestry's efforts to promote sustainable timber production and forest management. At that time, much of Tennessee had already been heavily logged and deforested, leading to concerns about soil erosion and the loss of wildlife habitat. The creation of state forests like Morgan aimed to address these issues by promoting reforestation and proper forest management techniques.

Morgan State Forest was named after Calvin Morgan, a prominent forester in Tennessee who played a key role in developing the state's forestry programs. It covers an area of approximately 1,874 acres and is located primarily within Morgan County, hence the name.

The forest has been actively managed by the Tennessee Division of Forestry to balance timber production, wildlife habitat, and recreational activities. Sustainable forestry practices, such as selective cutting and reforestation, have been implemented to ensure the long-term health and productivity of the forest.

In addition to timber production, Morgan State Forest provides various recreational opportunities. It has several miles of hiking trails that offer visitors a chance to explore the forest's diverse ecosystems, including hardwood and pine stands, as well as wetland areas. The forest also has picnic areas, camping sites, and a shooting range for public use.
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Location
Morgan State Forest is located near Clinton, Harriman and Knoxville

Trails
1. The Morgan State Forest Loop: A moderate 4-mile trail featuring a waterfall, suitable for all skill levels.

2. Overlook Trail: This is an easy .5 mile hike that leads to the scenic overlook of Emory River Valley and Catoosa Wildlife Management Area.

3. Honey Creek Loop: An intense 6 miles long loop with steep climbs and descents, recommended only for experienced hikers due to its rugged terrain.

4. Burnt Mill Bridge Trail - Big South Fork National Park : It's about a moderately difficult 7-mile round trip along Clear Fork river offering beautiful views of sandstone cliffs

5.Twin Arches Loop Trail - Scott County : Approximately six miles in length; features natural arches formed by erosion over thousands of years.

6.John Muir Overlook Trial-Scott county:A short but strenuous one mile trial leading up to panoramic view points overlooking big south fork national park

7.Sunset Rock on Lookout Mountain-Chattanooga:a relatively flat two-miles out-and-back trail providing stunning sunset vistas from atop lookout mountain

8.Great Stone Door-Savage Gulf Natural area:this three-miles return journey takes you through dense forest before reaching the impressive stone door formation,a large crack between two cliff faces

9.Cherokee Bluffs Concourse-Knoxville:a family-friendly four-kilometer pathway showcasing breathtaking cityscape panoramas alongside Tennessee river

10.Mount LeConte via Alum Cave-Gatlinburg:A challenging eleven kilometers ascent towards mount leconte peak passing alum cave bluffs,en route

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Directions
1. Start on I:40 E from Nashville, Tennessee.
2. Take exit 258 for TN:53 toward Gordonsville/Carthage.
3. Turn right onto TN:53 S/Gordonsville Hwy after the ramp.
4. Continue to follow TN:53 S until you reach Carthage city center.
5. In Carthage, turn left onto Main St N/TN:25 W/East Hill Street at traffic light intersection near Smith County Courthouse Square Park.
6. Follow East Hill Street which becomes Dixon Springs Highway or State Route 25 West out of town towards Hartsville/Rome area.
7. The forest entrance will be visible on your right side along this route just past Rome community.

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Tennessee
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Tennessee State Parks

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