The best running trails around Cowan

The Cowan area, nestled at the base of the Cumberland Plateau, offers a variety of running experiences. While our guide features a selection of curated routes, the broader region, including nearby Sewanee, provides numerous trails for joggers of all levels. You'll find options ranging from moderate loops to more challenging, longer runs.

Yes, the region offers several options suitable for families. The Morgan's Steep loop from Sewanee is a moderate 6 km route with relatively gentle elevation changes, making it a good choice. Additionally, sections of the Mountain Goat Trail, especially the paved parts, are excellent for a relaxed family run.

Absolutely. Many of the trails in the area are designed as loops, offering a continuous running experience without retracing your steps. For example, the Audubon Lake loop from Sewanee is a moderate 14 km circular route that takes you through scenic landscapes.

Cowan's location at the Cumberland Plateau provides dramatic backdrops. The Perimeter Trail in Sewanee, just a short drive away, offers extensive views, including overlooks and geological features. For a specific route, consider the Green's View loop from Sewanee, which provides lovely vistas along its 7.2 km path.

Many trails in the Cowan and Sewanee area are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep your canine companion on a leash and check specific trail regulations before you go. The Mountain Goat Trail and the extensive Perimeter Trail system are generally welcoming to leashed dogs, offering plenty of space for both of you to enjoy a run.

You'll encounter a diverse range of terrain. Given Cowan's position at the foot of the Cumberland Plateau, routes can feature gentle inclines and descents, especially as you move towards the plateau's edge. You'll find shaded paths through upland deciduous forests, some paved sections like on the Mountain Goat Trail, and natural, unpaved trails, particularly around the waterfalls and lakes.

Yes, for those who enjoy the reward of natural beauty, the trails leading to Machine Falls, Busby Falls, and Adams Falls offer a fantastic experience. These trails, often combined into a 3-mile loop, provide a more natural, unpaved running surface with the added bonus of stunning waterfalls.

For a more challenging and extended run, the Bushy Lake – Audubon Lake loop from Sewanee is an excellent choice. This difficult 17.6 km route offers a substantial distance and elevation changes to test your endurance. The full Perimeter Trail in Sewanee, a 20-mile loop, also provides extensive options for long-distance training.

Spring and fall are generally considered the best seasons for jogging in Cowan. The weather is milder, and the natural scenery is at its peak, with vibrant foliage in autumn and blooming flora in spring. Summer can be warm and humid, so early morning or late evening runs are preferable, while winter offers crisp air but requires appropriate gear for colder temperatures.

Yes, the Mountain Goat Trail is a significant paved multi-use path that is ideal for running. The section from Sewanee to Tracy City is fully paved, offering a smooth, 12.5-mile route that is approximately 70% shaded, making it a comfortable option for a steady run or a leisurely jog.

Beyond the natural beauty of the Cumberland Plateau, you might encounter historical markers along the Mountain Goat Trail, which follows an old railroad line. The University of the South in Sewanee, with its distinctive architecture and campus, is also a notable landmark adjacent to many running trails. The Tennessee Williams Trail offers a dramatic overlook of Cowan itself.