North Ridge Trail

Looking to escape town with your pup? No need to venture miles outside of the city to be surrounded by nature. Oak Ridge, Tennessee offers quite the hidden paradise for hikers and local residents on the North Ridge Trail Greenway! The main trail extends beyond seven miles, but with its ancillary trails, the entire trip can reach just over ten miles. The North Ridge Trail is a designated National Recreation Trail which features breathtaking woodlands and creeks along the ridge lying above Oak Ridge. Its convenient, nearby location to Oak Ridge makes this trail one of the most pawpular dog-friendly hikes in the area!

There are several different accesses to the trail, so you can easily reach the main trail from anywhere in town. The most pawpular entrance is via Endicott Lane (see address), however, there are also accesses via Englewood Lane, Outer Drive, Orchard Lane, Walker Lane, Wedgewood Road, and Illinois Avenue. All accesses are blazed blue, with the main trail being blazed white. This way, you can easily spot side trails, access points, and not get lost on the main trail. Be prepared to encounter several steep inclines while hiking this trail as the elevation rises and drops. The terrain along the trail is mostly dirt/earth, so keep an eye out for creepy crawlers, snakes, and other wildlife. 

The North Ridge Trail Greenway is accessible year-round, providing residents and traveler's the convenience of a dog-friendly destination during any season. Just be cautious of weather conditions before you begin your hike, especially if you aim to complete the 7+ miles in one go, and check regularly for updates in case of any felled trees or other potential dangers. The North Ridge Trail is a woofderful hike to complete with your adventurous pup! Whether you intend to go for a quick jog, or spend the Saturday hiking the entire ridgeline, ensure that no dog waste or trash is left behind; leave only pawprints!