Highlander Trail

We know one of the hallmarks of a thriving community is access to safe places where people can walk, run, cycle, and experience the outdoors. Across the country, rail-trails have transformed former railroad tracks into vibrant community assets—creating new opportunities for outdoor recreation, supporting local businesses, and connecting people to the landscapes and stories that define their regions. In East Tennessee, the future Tennessee Highlander Trail will do just that.

Stretching 41 miles through Scott, Campbell, and Anderson Counties, the trail will follow a historic rail corridor across the region’s scenic mountains and rural communities, and bring new opportunities for residents and visitors alike to experience the area’s natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and outdoor recreation.

As part of Trust for Public Land’s Appalachian United Outdoors Program, the Highlander Trail reflects our commitment to expanding access to the outdoors while helping communities thrive. By creating a safe, accessible trail that connects people, places, and local economies, the work here will strengthen quality of life across the region and create lasting benefits for generations to come.

Together with local partners and community leaders, we’re working to turn this vision into reality—creating a trail that will connect East Tennesseans to each other, to nature, and to new opportunities for years ahead.