Day Hike the Old Settlers Trail
The Old Settlers Trail runs 17 miles from end to end passing through an area very heavily settled before the Park was established. Because of its length, it is common to hike the entire trail without seeing another person. Great wildlife trail, full of artifacts from corn cribs, standing chimneys, cemeteries, cabins and barns. It is located on the Tennessee side of the Park and can be accessed at the Greenbriar entrance to the Park as well as near the Maddron Bald Trailhead (Baxter Rd off Hwy 321). Many guide books recommend parking your car at Shady Oaks General Store (across from Baxter Rd) where you can finish your trip with great home-style country cooking or even pick up a picnic lunch to take with you as you begin your trip. Shady Oaks General Store can be contacted at (423) 487-4202. Parking at the trailhead is discouraged because of the history of break-ins, however, keeping your valuables out of your car and anything in your car out of sight lowers the probability of a break-in considerably.