• Type:
  • Loop

  • Difficulty:
  • Medium

  • Scenery Ranking:
  • 4/5

  • Accessibility:
  • Easily Accessible

  • Trail Maintenance:
  • Fairly Maintained

  • Facilities:
  • Bathrooms
  • Pavilions
  • Camping

Meriwether Lewis Trail

Intro:

The Meriwether Lewis Park is located in Hohenwald,Tn. This location has historical significance because this is the location where explorer Meriwhether Lewis spent the final days of his life. In 1809 Lewis was on his way to Washington D.C. and stayed at an Inn located at this very spot just off the Natchez Trace. He died here and is buried on the park premisses You can see his grave site and a monument on the property. This hike will not only give you a great scenic hike, but take you back in time by taking you down the old Natchez Trace, by a replica of the early 1800s Cabin, and an informative historic loop with descriptions of the Lewis and Clark expedition.

Trail Head:

The trail head is located on the park property

To access the trail head: The trail head is located just past the old early 1800s cabin replica. After passing the replica cabin continue north towards the cemetery and monument. You will see the trail heads just past the cemetery.

Difficulty:

The trail has some tough hills in places. If you hike there in the summer be prepared to remove some ticks!

Hiking the Trail:

Before starting the actual trail, I suggest walking along the informative historical trail (a paved trail) and reading about the Lewis and Clark expedition and other historical facts. After that, on your way to the trail, stop by the replica cabin (if its open) and then go on by the cemetery and visit the monument of Meriwether Lewis. Ok, now that you have done that, Go ahead and hit the trail. I suggest starting on the left and beginning your loop there (because that's how I did it lol). You will loop around to different areas. There will be one spot where you will be close to the main road and you can get off the trail for a moment and take in a spectacular view at an over look. The last part of your hike will take you along side Little Swan Creek. This trail is about 3.5 miles and can be a little physically demanding in some areas. But overall it is a great hike with some added bonuses at the park

Scenery:

You will get to see a replica of the old early 1800s cabin that was used as an inn. The Meriwether Lewis monument, great views of Little Swan Creek, and great views from one of the overlooks the park offers.

Trail Maintenance:

The trail is fairly maintained. May be some areas not as well maintained. In the summer beware of ticks. Wear long pants and be sure to use tick repellent before hiking.

Facilities:

There are bathrooms and camp grounds.