Tennessee State Parks will offer free, ranger-guided Spring Hikes on Saturday, March 21, 2026, providing a strategic opportunity for outdoor recreation providers to engage visitors during the shoulder season.
This event marks the second installment of the 2026 Signature Hikes series, following the First Day Hikes in January and preceding National Trails Day on June 6 and After-Thanksgiving Hikes on November 27, according to 3B Media News.
The statewide celebration is designed to welcome the new season, with rangers leading participants through landscapes featuring spring wildflowers and active wildlife. Staff members will provide educational insights into regional geology, spring ephemerals, and local historic sites throughout the various excursions.
Brian Clifford, deputy commissioner for conservation at the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, stated that the hikes are designed for all experience levels. Clifford added that participants do not need to be longtime hikers to enjoy these outdoor activities.
The scheduled hikes cover a diverse range of difficulty levels and geographic regions. For instance, Lamar Alexander Rocky Fork State Park will feature a climb to Chigger Ridge, while Paris Landing State Park offers a wildflower and redbud tree hunt.
Other featured excursions include an early morning hike at Tims Ford State Park starting at 7 a.m. and a 1.5-mile waterfall tour at Burgess Falls State Park. Harrison Bay State Park and Edgar Evins State Park will also host walks focused on seasonal flora and lakeside trails.
In addition to traditional hiking, Fort Pillow State Historic Park will host a combination hike and litter cleanup. This initiative is part of the Great American Cleanup, highlighting the state park system’s focus on environmental stewardship and conservation.
To support ongoing trail maintenance and education, the state encourages donations to the Trail Pack program. Visitors interested in contributing further can also explore various volunteer opportunities through the parks system.
While admission to Tennessee State Parks is free, some locations request advance registration to help staff manage crowd sizes. Officials recommend that all participants wear closed-toe shoes and bring water and snacks for their comfort.
This event highlights the growing demand for guided, educational nature experiences that lower the barrier to entry for novice participants. For recreation providers and guides, these state-led initiatives create a high-visibility platform to promote environmental stewardship while demonstrating the economic value of preserving public lands for sustainable tourism.