University of the South
Sewanee traces its roots both to the construction of the Mountain Goat Railroad in the 1840s and to the founding of the University of the South in 1858, after Southern dioceses of the Episcopal Church acquired 5,000 acres of land from the Sewanee Mining Company.
Today, the University’s land holdings, known familiarly as “the Domain,” stretch across 13,000+ acres, making it the second-largest private college campus in the United States and an ideal resource for education, research and outdoor recreation. The historic business district of Sewanee contains a number of beautifully maintained, century-old structures, offering authentic dining and shopping experiences.
The Domain has 65 miles of hiking and biking trails, including the 20-mile Perimeter Trail, Bridal Veil Falls Trail and the Shakerag Trail – the latter being especially known for its spring wildflower displays in March and April. The Memorial Cross and Green’s View are two of the many sites where visitors enjoy sweeping bluff vistas of the surrounding area. Multiple trailheads across the Domain lead to interesting trails, ranging from the easy, paved path of the former Mountain Goat Railroad (now the Mountain Goat Trail), to more challenging trails along the Cumberland escarpment.
Trailheads
Ballfield Road Trailhead
Green's View
Lake Cheston
Memorial Cross
Sewanee Visitor Center & Mountain Goat Trailhead
University Gates
Hikes & Attractions
Difficult
Bridal Veil Falls Loop
2.7-mile out-and-back hike from Lake Cheston to Bridal Veil Falls, which disappears into an underground stream. Not recommended during dry months.
Moderate
Caldwell Rim Loop
Moderate 2.7-mile hike from the Sewanee Visitor Center leading to a loop featuring views of Lost Cove
Easy
Green's View Overlook
Scenic overlook at the University of the South in Sewanee, Green’s View is a favorite spot for picnics and sunset views. Access this adventure from University Avenue via Green’s View Road.
Easy
Lake Cheston Loop
This easy half-mile trail circumnavigates Lake Cheston, a popular swimming area for the University.
Moderate
Lake Dimmick
6-mile out-and-back hike or mountain bike ride starting on the paved Mountain Goat Trail, continuing on a dirt trail to Lake Dimmick
Easy
Memorial Cross Overlook
This scenic and historic overlook at the University of the South in Sewanee is also a favorite spot for sunsets. Access this adventure from University Avenue via Tennessee Avenue.
Easy, Moderate
Morgan's Steep Overlook
A third scenic overlook at the University of the South in Sewanee, Morgan’s Steep is also a favorite spot for picnics. Access this adventure by parking at Lake Cheston and hiking 3/4 mile each way to/from Morgan's Steep.
Easy
Mountain Goat Trail Stroll
This is a paved 3.2-mile out-and-back hike along the historic route of the Mountain Goat Railroad, taking you to the University Gates on US 41A and back.
Easy
Piney Point
2-mile out-and-back hike from the University Gates to a beautiful overlook of Shakerag Hollow
Difficult
Proctor's Hall/Morgan's Steep
2-mile loop from Memorial Cross with a scramble through a unique rock tunnel at Proctor's Hall.
Difficult
Shakerag Hollow
One of Sewanee's most popular hikes - especially when wildflowers are blooming in the spring. Descend into Shakerag Hollow, climb stone stairs up to Green's View.
Moderate
Tennessee Williams Trail
A moderate 2-mile out-and-back from Sewanee Village to Memorial Cross, with its overlook of Cowan
