Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
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Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee |
| DESCRIPTION: | Although Montgomery Bell State park offers few natural highlights, the hiker will encounter many historical landmarks on this 11.7 mile loop trail. In the early 1800's the land of Montgomery Bell was used for mining. Many ore pits, the remains of the old Laurel Furnace, log cabins, and Hall Cemetery can still be seen along this historic trail. Also, Lake Woodhaven and the stream that feeds it are a favorite spot for a beaver colony and other wildlife. Other lakes along this trail include Create Hollow Lake and Acorn Lake. The trail rating is moderate. |
| DIRECTIONS: | Take I-40 West from Nashville to Exit 196. Turn right onto U.S. 70 South, then left again at the U.S. 70 junction. Montgomery bell is located roughly five miles past the city of white Bluff on the left. |
| CAMPGROUNDS: | There are three campsites located along this trail. Campsite One, known as Hall Spring, is located three miles from the start. Hall Spring has an eight-person bunk shelter and a pit toilet. Campsite Two, known as Woodland, located 4.7 miles from the start and 0.3 miles from the main trail. It also provides the hiker with an eight person bunk shelter and pit latrines. The last campsite, know as Wildcat Hollow, is located 8.7 miles from the start. Although the log cabin was never fully competed, it still provides the camper with moderate protection. Make sure to register with the Montgomery Bell Ranger Office for whichever campsite you plan to use before beginning your walk. Be sure to bring a water filter or water purification tablets because none of the campsites provides filtered water. Although these three campsites are provided for the hiker, Montgomery Bell can be walked in a day hike. |
| CAR CAMPING: | Montgomery Bell offers the closest place to Vanderbilt for "car camping." There are 120 campsites, each with picnic table and grill as well as two, large group cabins. Cabin rentals are also available. |
| IN THE AREA: | To the east of Montgomery Bell one will find the narrows of the Harpeth Day Park and the Cheetah Wildlife Management Area. Located to the north is the Unbar Cave State Natural Area. Located to the west is the Jewel Cave, the Tennessee River, Nathan Bedford Forest State Historical Area, and Natchez Trace State Park and Forest. |
| FOR MORE INFO: | Consult Tennessee Trails by Evan Means, pages 89-92, in the Outdoor Recreation Library or check out the The Tennessee State Park Information Page. |