house mountain state park

PaulyPauly2014

Always enjoy a hike on House Mountain! The hike can be tuff, but worth the view at the top! I would recommend trying both ways...The views on both sides on a clear day is breathtaking! Many rock cutaways are amazing! Recommend ....

225sallyg

I admit I'm not in the best hiking shape. I enjoyed taking the loop hike at this park, but it certainly was not easy. The trail is not in the best of shape, and a person must climb up and over many large rocks. My poor old thighs reminded me the next day. I would definitely go there again, however. The views in the winter time with the leaves off the trees were quite good. The large rock formations were interesting. It's great to have such a recreational spot so close to the city (Knoxville).

lindencraig

This is such a convenient site, close to downtown Knoxville, but it is steep and rigorous hike. It is not for out-of-shape humans or dogs. We enjoy it, but we often see people or dogs who look like they are about to die. There is not much room for people to pass on the actual trail. There is plenty of room at the top for picnicking and great views.

kayjeckel

House Mountain seems to be a secret in Knoxville because everyone thinks of Ijams Nature Center when they think of local hikes. If you want a peaceful, secluded walk in the woods, this is your place. It's not strenuous, but depending on your pace it will definitely get the blood pumping. My only complaint is that some sections of the trail are are overgrown and a bit obscure in the winter, but not a big deal.

williamwH2707BF

Rocky and somewhat steep. Avoid on a rainy day, as there is a lot of erosion on the trails. Great views from the top and plenty of places to picnic at top. Not a single other person was there when I went at 3 in the afternoon, very quiet. A good practice hike if you are planning to climb Leconte.

joannb107

Children and granchildren came for a special birthday hike with Grand Daddy. The trail is a bit rocky but ok even for a very "golden ager". Be sure and and go to the top...the view is gorgeous. Area very close to I-40.

TM595

House Mountain is the highest point in Knox County. The hike is moderate and the crowds are non-existent.

KimC729

One of our favorite spots to hike. The hike is moderate in difficulty and very steep and rocky in places. The view from the top if fabulous. We have hiked it many times, we usually go up from the left side and down the other side. Took us a couple of hours to hike up and about a hour down. bring a snack and enjoy it from the top

ROADFOREMAN

Welcome to House Mountain. The trails are tough, even the short ones. Plan to break a serious sweat...and get the heart rate elevated. Forget the flip-flops and light tennis shoes. All in all, it's a great place for a good solid workout! House Mountain once sheltered moonshine stills, and saw cattle graze on its flanks. Families who traced their roots back to the 1700s -- Zachary, Fauver, Sneed -- had homes and farms along the base of the ridge. And law enforcement, federal agency, and TV stations had their radio antennas on the ridgecrest.There was interesting political wrangling attendant to the final decision to set aside this land for public use. The local "really-state mafia" had their eyes on the hillsides, and House Mountain was one step away from becoming one huge condo and subdivision. We're lucky that strategic thinkers won out!

will37862

A very nice hike and a surprise to find it so close to Knoxville! I would not say it is very strenuous but it definitely isn't an easy hike. The pay off is worth the work though. Beautiful views from several overlook locations along the top.

lorib465

For individuals wanting to go on a quick hike, this is your place. It's only four miles round trip but it's pretty steep. The views are good so bring your phone to take pictures. Also, the trails are marked very clearly so I never worry about getting lost. Happy trails!

susansX4645KO

This is a great little hike that is a short drive from Knoxville, rather than traveling to the Smokeys. I took my dog the day I went, as they are allowed with a leash. The trail is easy to see, and the terrain is moderately easy to get through. There were only a few hikers the day we went, which was during the week. It is a short hike, and worthy of a visit.

MichelleJ352

If you go before the leaves are out, the views are stupendous. There's a picnic area and easy as well as more challenging trails. Hard to believe something like this is so close to Knoxville.

AGB20

I was in Knoxville for a friends wedding and wanted to kill some time while I was there. About 25 min from downtown, it was pretty easy to find. I took the blue trail up to the West overlook, then looped back down to the white trail. It was somewhat steep, but certainly doable. I wouldn't say it was a worthwhile view at the top, but if you're looking for a quick hike, this is a decent one to do that's close by.

hikebikerun97

I love hiking here. Less than 10 miles from my house. I have goal to ride my bike out here, hike the mountain, and then ride back. Awesome to come up here in the early morning to watch the sunrise.