This information is a public record of the 1978 NRT application and may be out of date if it has not been updated by a trail manager --
check with the trail manager for updated details before visiting.

Piney River Nature Trail

Private Backcountry Trail

Length
10 miles
Elevation Gain
--
Route Type
out & back

(1 review)

Piney River Nature Hike taken in 2010. Photo by Kelly Stewart.

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Location: Northeast of Spring City on Shut-In Gap Road.

States: Tennessee

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Reviews

Patricia Ellis

Mar 29, 2026

Beautiful and remote trail through woods by the river

Hiked March 28, 2026. Remote and somewhat rugged trail. Well-maintained. Lots of little waterfalls. Some camping options for those who want a remote and short backpacking trip. Very much enjoyed this trek. Note this trail is now part of TN’s Cumberland Trail network and is considered the “Lower Piney River Segment.” You can read more about that on the Cumberland Trail Conservancy’s website. Trail is 8.5 miles long. A 14.1-mile loop can be made by hiking back to the eastern trailhead from the Newby Branch terminus along Shut-In Gap Road. The road walk is scenic and all downhill. Not much shoulder though so pay attention to traffic.

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Allowed Uses:

Hiking/Walking

Public Contact

Bowaters Southern Paper Company
Calhoun, TN 37309

Contact the trail manager for current maps and visiting details.

More Details

Elevation (low): --
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Part of a Trail System? No
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Tread Width (average): 0"
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Cross-slope (average, percent): --
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Certified as an NRT
Apr 11, 1978

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