Waterfall Hero Hikes: Dennis Cove Recreation Area (Cherokee)

Dennis Cove Recreation Area is a campground and forest recreation area near Lake Watauga in Carter County, Tennessee. The recreation area is part of the Watauga Ranger District of Cherokee National Forest. The campground is along Laurel Fork, a beautiful mountain creek. Numerous trails lead along the creek and tributary to waterfalls and connecting to the Appalachian Trail.

Directions:

From Elizabethton, head south on US-19 E for about 5 miles to Hampton and turn left on US-321 south. Go 0.8 miles and turn right on Dennis Cove Road. Follow this for 4.8 miles to a parking area on the left just before the bridge over Laurel Fork.

Map:

Trails:

Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail runs through the Dennis Cove area, crossing the road and heading down into Pond Mountain Wilderness.

Coon Den Falls Trail (#37)

Coon Den Falls Trail starts from the bridge near the entrance of the campground and follows Coon Den Branch upstream past the waterfall and ending at the Appalachian Trail.

Lacy Trap Trail (#36)

Lacy Trap Trail starts at Laurel Fork Trail in Frog Level and heads up Lacy Trap Ridge, ending at the Appalachian Trail after about 3 miles. The lower part of the trail follows old logging roads then heads into the woods on singletrack trail.

Laurel Fork Trail (#39)

Laurel Fork Trail starts at from the bridge near the entrance of the campground and follows Laurel Fork of Doe River upstream for about 8 miles, with 20+ water crossings that require wading. There are several scenic waterfalls along the trail.