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Tailwater Trail
4.9 ★★★★★ 25 Google reviews · Running trail in Bristol, Tennessee · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Paved
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Tailwater Trail'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.
What runners say about Tailwater Trail
“It's a beautiful place and good cool breeze off the river”
“Beautiful easy trail along South Holston Dam.”
Great concrete walking trail beside the river. Benches and tables along the entire walk. Good fishing and an awesome place to kayak and paddleboard as well. All repair work from storm damage is completed, and the bridge over to the island/walking trail is open again!!
Beautiful easy trail along South Holston Dam. The trailhead has the best public bathroom I've ever seen at trail
This particular spot is full sun if you're planning to sit and fish... lots of shady fishin' spots at The Weir picnic area and trails across the bridge Up top beautiful views and shady picnic spots Great place to put in a kayak or canoe to travel down river.
Great place to fish,walk ur dogs and see another of wildlife. It's a beautiful place and good cool breeze off the river
Trail conditions & character
“It's a beautiful place and good cool breeze off the river”
“My advice from experience, stay to the right in the river :) parking near by make sure someone to pick up on the other end.”
“The trailhead has the best public bathroom I've ever seen at trail”
“Great place to walk, paved and flat with nice views”
Plan your run at Tailwater Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfacePaved — asphalt or concrete. Fast and predictable, runnable year-round, and fine with a stroller
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
Running trails near Bristol
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Emmet Trail Trailhead
4.3 ★★★★☆ 4 reviews
Blue Hole
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Relaxed area featuring several waterfalls, some with swimming areas and one 4-tiered cascade.
Charlie Robinette Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 88 reviews
This 8-acre park has a picnic shelter, a walking trail & lots of open green space.
Whitetop Creek Park
4.5 ★★★★★ 104 reviews
Athletic complex featuring softball & lighted soccer fields, plus a perimeter walking trail.