Day Trips from Kingsport
← All Kingsport day tripsDay Trips from Kingsport: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of Kingsport, TN. From easy lakeside walks to challenging ridge hikes, these day trip trails deliver real scenery without the plane ticket. Drive times, ratings, and trail info included.
12 hiking trails near Kingsport
Dupont State Recreational Forest
Hendersonville, NC 28739
Just 2 hrs 8 min from Kingsport, rated 4.9 stars by 103 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
New River Gorge National Park & Preserve
USA
Just 2 hrs 53 min from Kingsport, rated 4.9 stars by 5,921 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Jump Off Rock
Laurel Park, NC 28739
Just 2 hrs 1 min from Kingsport, rated 4.9 stars by 2,324 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
South Mountains State Park
Connelly Springs, NC 28612
Just 2 hrs 29 min from Kingsport, rated 4.9 stars by 2,909 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Mount Mitchell State Park
Burnsville, NC 28714
Just 2 hrs 13 min from Kingsport, rated 4.9 stars by 5,295 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Grandfather Mountain
Linville, NC 28646
Just 1 hr 33 min from Kingsport, rated 4.8 stars by 6,708 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lamar Alexander Rocky Fork State Park
Flag Pond, TN 37657
Just 56 min from Kingsport, rated 4.8 stars by 503 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
The Channels
VA 24280, USA
Just 1 hr 35 min from Kingsport, rated 4.8 stars by 340 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Bad Branch State Nature Preserve
Eolia, KY 40826
Just 1 hr 33 min from Kingsport, rated 4.8 stars by 118 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Natural Tunnel State Park
Duffield, VA 24244
Just 31 min from Kingsport, rated 4.8 stars by 1,824 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Grandfather Mountain State Park
Banner Elk, NC 28604
Just 1 hr 24 min from Kingsport, rated 4.8 stars by 6,617 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Pinnacle Natural Area Preserve
Honaker, VA 24260
Just 1 hr 13 min from Kingsport, rated 4.8 stars by 157 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from Kingsport
What are the best hiking trails near Kingsport, TN?
The best hikes near Kingsport range from easy nature preserve loops to challenging state park trails with waterfalls, overlooks, and canyon scenery. Check the cards above for top-rated options with real drive times.
Are there easy hikes near Kingsport?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near Kingsport offer well-maintained, beginner-friendly trails under 3 miles. Look for "Nature" tagged destinations above for the most accessible options.
What should I bring on a day hike from Kingsport?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near Kingsport are well-marked but cell service can be spotty in state parks. Download trail maps before you leave and wear sturdy shoes.
When is the best time to hike near Kingsport?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near Kingsport. Fall foliage is spectacular at most destinations. Summer works but can be hot and buggy. Winter hiking is possible at many parks with proper gear.
Don't know where to go?
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