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Panther Creek State Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 2,591 Google reviews · Running trail in Morristown, Tennessee · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Paved
- Distance
- 28 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Panther Creek State Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
This vast park offers 17 hiking trails, 7 miles of horseback riding trails & year-round fishing.
What runners say about Panther Creek State Park
“We did the ore mine trail with could have been marked better but the trail was well kept.”
“Panther Creek State Park offers beautiful views of Cherokee Lake, hiking trails, and picnic areas.”
“Well marked trails, clean facilities, and the park staff are always friendly.”
“Beautiful and serene, plus there are probably 20 to 30 deer in the grass along the road into the park at night, drive slow!”
A Beautiful but Challenging Hike – Be Prepared! This is a beautiful experience, but if it’s your first time, make sure to come prepared. The hike is about 3.5 miles round-trip to the waterfall and back. Bring plenty of water and some snacks—you’ll need the energy. The trail isn’t easy.
I spent some time here in May while on a road trip. I really enjoyed both hikes I did. The park is calm and quiet and the trails are easy to follow. The first day I was here after several days of storms so there were downed trees blocking the trail in several areas. I also saw two tiny baby turtles upside down.
Just riding around and looking for foliage and , this beautiful place did not disappoint . They have a lot going on here from Frisbee golf to walking trails . At the very end is a very nice pavilion that you can reserve for special occasions. It overlooks a beautiful lake .
Loved our experience here today. Definitely stop in the visitor center to get your TN state park stamp and souvenirs. We did the ore mine trail with could have been marked better but the trail was well kept. Definitely check out the overlook, beautiful views. Plenty of picnic areas to have a lunch as well.
Trail conditions & character
“Panther Creek State Park offers beautiful views of Cherokee Lake, hiking trails, and picnic areas.”
“Great maintenance, tee pads are fantastic, elevations that make you stop for a breath and beautiful views all around.”
“Beautiful and serene, plus there are probably 20 to 30 deer in the grass along the road into the park at night, drive slow!”
“Well marked trails, clean facilities, and the park staff are always friendly.”
“There are several trails here, over 25 miles.”
“Paved parking spot, fire pit, barbecue, and picnic table at each spot as well.”
“Paved parking spot, fire pit, barbecue, and picnic table at each spot as well.”
Plan your run at Panther Creek State Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfacePaved — asphalt or concrete. Fast and predictable, runnable year-round, and fine with a stroller
- Distance28 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit. Long enough for a real long run.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitetnstateparks.com
- Phone+1 888-867-2757
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 8 am–4:30 pm |
| Tuesday | 8 am–4:30 pm |
| Wednesday | 8 am–4:30 pm |
| Thursday | 8 am–4:30 pm |
| Friday | 8 am–4:30 pm |
| Saturday | 9 am–4:30 pm |
| Sunday | 8 am–4:30 pm |
Running trails near Morristown
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Wayne Hansard Park
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Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Park
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Fred Miller Park
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Fulton-Hill Park
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Cherokee Park
4.5 ★★★★★ 1,180 reviews
Kid-friendly haven featuring a splashing area, disc golf, playgrounds and lake access.