Longhunter Loop Trail

The Longhunter Loop Trail can be accessed by driving out past the tennis courts and parking at the picnic shelters. The trail leaves the parking lot and works its way past that back of a hospital and climbs a short hill where the trail arrives at the loop. This trail is a wide grass and dirt trail that is mowed and maintained by the state park. If you continue straight, the trail cuts over to the other side if you only have time for a shorter hike. If you turn to the right, the trail meanders along the boundary of the state park and you'll see a TVA substation, a couple of homes, and roads on the right hand side of the trail. On the left side of the trail, there are woods where birds can be seen flying from tree to tree. The trail begins to circle and the Watauga River comes into view. Unlike the Patriot Path where you are on the shores of the river, you are now above the river and can enjoy views of the river from above. The trail runs along this bluff for a while before circling back and heading back toward the trailhead. It is a nice, quiet hike that is far less traveled than other trails in the park. When you get back to the intersection, you can retrace your steps back down to the parking area or hike to other parts of the park to continue exploring the fort and the river that runs by it.