Tally Wilderness is a wilderness area in Tennessee, nestled within the Cherokee National Forest and encompassing approximately 11,000 acres. This region is characterized by rugged and varied topography, featuring dense forests, steep gorges, rolling hills, and notable rock formations. The landscape provides a diverse setting for several sports like hiking, offering a range of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Its unspoiled character is defined by classic northern Cumberland Plateau native hardwood forests.
Tally Wilderness offers…
5
Routes
5
(2)
Average rating
19
People visited

3
hikers
3.56km
01:01
70m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

930m
00:15
0m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(2)
12
hikers
17.7km
04:54
320m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

4
hikers
12.0km
03:15
160m
160m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tally Wilderness is a wilderness area located within the Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee. It spans approximately 11,000 acres (4,450 hectares) and features rugged and varied topography, including dense forests, steep gorges, and rolling hills. The area was designated in 1984 to preserve its unique ecosystems and promote outdoor recreation.
Tally Wilderness primarily offers opportunities for hiking. The diverse terrain provides a range of experiences, from easy strolls to more challenging backpacking routes. Visitors can explore various trails and immerse themselves in the natural environment.
The wilderness features diverse terrain, including dense forests, steep gorges, and rolling hills. Notable natural features include scenic waterfalls, unique rock formations like natural arches and cliffs, and Tally Lake. Tally Mountain offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Yes, Tally Wilderness is home to scenic waterfalls. A prominent attraction is Tally Ho Falls, which cascades down a rocky cliff. Crystal Falls is also accessible via a short trail, showcasing waterfalls and rock formations.
Popular trails include the Mesa Top Overlook loop, which is an easy 2.4-mile (3.9 km) route. The moderate Hidden Passage Trail loop covers 7.5 miles (12.1 km), and the longer Slave Falls and Twin Arches loop is 11.0 miles (17.7 km) long. The Crystal Falls via Hidden Passage Trail is an easy 0.6-mile (1.0 km) path.
Yes, Tally Wilderness offers trails suitable for various fitness levels, including easy options. The Mesa Top Overlook loop is an easy 2.4-mile (3.9 km) route. The Crystal Falls via Hidden Passage Trail is also an easy 0.6-mile (1.0 km) path.
Tally Wilderness provides trails suitable for families. Easy routes like the Mesa Top Overlook loop, at 2.4 miles (3.9 km), and the 0.6-mile (1.0 km) Crystal Falls via Hidden Passage Trail offer accessible options for visitors of all ages.
Tally Wilderness is home to a variety of wildlife. Common sightings include white-tailed deer, black bears, and wild turkeys. Numerous bird species also inhabit the area, providing opportunities for nature observation.
Tally Wilderness has received an average rating of 5.0 out of 5 stars from more than 20 visitors on komoot. This indicates a high level of satisfaction among outdoor enthusiasts who have explored the area.
Yes, komoot offers guides for Tally Wilderness to help plan outdoor adventures. One available guide is Hiking in Tally Wilderness, which provides detailed information for exploring the area.
Tally Wilderness is managed as part of the Cherokee National Forest. The Cherokee National Forest can be contacted at 423-476-9700, and its official website is fs.usda.gov/cherokee. The area is also protected by The Nature Conservancy in Tennessee, which can be reached at 615-383-9909 or nature.org/tennessee.

