Head of the Crow highlights
Head of the Crow has three primary trailheads, each with its own unique appeal and level of difficulty. The Sewanee Natural Bridge is just steps from the parking lot at Lost Cove North. Sherwood Loop Trail is an easy loop featuring gorgeous overlooks at Lost Cove East, and Buggytop Cave's underground river is accessed through a more challenging hike from Lost Cove West.
Sherwood Loop Trail
This is an easy 2.9 mile loop trail that includes the Sherwood Natural Bridge and several outstanding overlooks. Access this adventure from the Lost Cove East Trailhead.
Buggytop Cave
This is a moderately difficult 4-mile roundtrip hike to one of the largest cave openings in Tennessee, and the only one from which water normally flows. There are two steep ascent/descent areas; one at each end of this trail. Access this adventure from the Lost Cove West Trailhead.
Sewanee Natural Bridge
A remarkable natural sandstone arch, easily accessible via a 400-foot stair-stepped path from the parking lot. Access this adventure from the Lost Cove North Trailhead.
Visit the NEW Head of the Crow State Park
...and the nation's most beautiful college campus.
Head of the Crow was just dedicated on October 21st as Tennessee's newest state park! It's conveniently located just off I-24, an hour from Chattanooga, and an hour and a half from Nashville near the picturesque village of Sewanee, which is also home to Princeton Review's #1 most beautiful college campus, the University of the South.
Head of the Crow boasts over 4,000 acres of unspoiled beauty, including two natural bridges, jaw-dropping bluff overlooks and a large cave with an underground river flowing out of it. The University "domain" offers an additional 65 miles of hiking trails with its own stunning overlooks, as well as beautiful architecture and a village with tasty food options.
Here's how to make the most of your visit...
It all starts at the new welcome center in Sewanee, which serves as a temporary park office and primary trailhead for the Mountain Goat Trail, a paved path for walking, running and biking on the original route of the historic Mountain Goat Railroad. You might even want to rent a bike at Woody's Bicycles in Sewanee or Eco E-bikes in nearby Monteagle.
Once you've gotten your bearings at the welcome center, here are some of your options...
See the University of the South
The University's campus features gorgeous gothic stone architecture, and the "domain" extends to over 13,000 acres with well-maintained trails and breathtaking overlooks.
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.
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.
All Saints Chapel
Beautiful Gothic architecture and breathtaking stained glass
Where to eat in Sewanee
The village of Sewanee is walkable from the welcome center and features a variety of dining options, from a pub & grill to casual farm-to-table to truly fine dining.
Judith
Seasonal menu of creative and approachable dishes including a selection of small, shareable plates perfect for the bar crowd with accessible wines and a cocktail list.
LUNCH
Farm-to-table restaurant with a rotating breakfast & lunch menu featuring local farmers & provisioners and a market for frozen meals, local meats, cheeses, craft beer, crafts & other gifts.
Shenanigans
Restaurant & pub featuring sandwiches, pizza and craft beers with a back room "speakeasy" serving fine cocktails and live performance venue featuring regionally touring bands.
Where to stay
While a quick visit to Head of the Crow might be a day trip from Nashville, Chattanooga or Huntsville, there's enough to do in Sewanee and throughout the South Cumberland to make a long weekend or even a full week visit. There are several lodging options in and around Sewanee, or you can opt for a stay in nearby Monteagle, just 7 miles up the road.
Reverie Vacation Rentals
Licensed vacation rental management company offering 5-star stays in the South Cumberland and surrounding areas.
Sewanee Inn
43-room hotel on University campus with restaurant, bar, golfing & event space
The Grove Airstream Campground
3 vintage Airstream trailers in a private campground