High Ground Park and Fort Higley
Discover panoramic Knoxville views and Civil War history at High Ground Park and Fort Higley. A peaceful urban oasis.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant foliage, crisp air
High Ground Park and Fort Higley
Best Time
Vibrant foliage, crisp air

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover panoramic Knoxville views and Civil War history at High Ground Park and Fort Higley. A peaceful urban oasis.
"The views of Knoxville never get old, and this hidden gem is the perfect spot to recharge."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Paths vary from paved to dirt, with some uphill sections. Good footwear is essential for exploring.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic city overlook is a prime spot for photos, especially with fall colors.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Knoxville Overlook
Summit of the park
Breathtaking city views, especially vibrant in fall. A perfect spot for photos and quiet contemplation.

Fort Higley Historical Site
Within the park grounds
Explore remnants of a Civil War-era fort, offering a glimpse into local history amidst nature.

Varied Walking Trails
Throughout the park
Choose between paved or dirt paths for a refreshing stroll or a more vigorous hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Views, Pack Accordingly
Respect the Space, Minimize Impact
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Paths vary from paved to dirt, with some uphill sections. Good footwear is essential for exploring.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic city overlook is a prime spot for photos, especially with fall colors.
I hiked up to this area in High Ground Park after seeing some photos online of a big swing up here. Unfortunately, it looks like the swing has been gone for awhile, but i got a pretty scenic shot in the meantime. Any other whimsical spots in Knoxville?
Short hikes?
🌳 Enjoy the Foliage
Visit in autumn for stunning fall colors that enhance the park's natural beauty.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
A great spot for a quiet picnic with scenic backdrops.
Any good parks in surrounding Knoxville areas?
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Paths vary from paved to dirt, with some uphill sections. Good footwear is essential for exploring.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic city overlook is a prime spot for photos, especially with fall colors.
🌳 Enjoy the Foliage
Visit in autumn for stunning fall colors that enhance the park's natural beauty.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
A great spot for a quiet picnic with scenic backdrops.
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Discover paved and dirt paths offering different walking experiences.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise High Ground Park for its stunning panoramic views of Knoxville and its historical significance with Fort Higley. The park offers a peaceful escape with varied trails, making it a great spot for walks and picnics. However, some reviewers note issues with litter and graffiti in certain areas, detracting from the natural beauty.
"A beautiful view! Unfortunately the trail to get to the lookout is absolutely littered with trash. There’s not only physically trash everywhere, but there’s also graffiti everywhere as well. I wish people cared more about their surroundings. On a positive note, it’s still worth the trip to see the view."
Terrence Reed
"Quick stroll! We took the 2 year old who walked the whole way. There’s a paved or dirt option. We did Paved to the top and dirt path on way back. Beautiful trees and a bit of history! Great walk!"
Stephanie Hohmann
"I have lived right around the corner from this park for two years and have walked here probably 100 times. Surprisingly nice, aesthetic, well maintained and relatively untraveled park.
Nothing too crazy, just a nice quiet place for how close it is to downtown with some cool views, good foliage in the fall, photo ops and some easily walkable fun trails. Maybe not a must go for someone in town for a day, but perfect park for the space its in for a good exploration or picnic."
Eli Sharp
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
High Ground Park is conveniently located near downtown Knoxville. While specific public transport options might be limited, driving is the most common way to access it. Parking is available at the park.
Yes, the park is accessible by car, and there is parking available. The roads leading to the park are generally well-maintained.
The park features a mix of paved and dirt trails. You can choose your preferred path based on your comfort level and desired experience.
High Ground Park is part of the Knoxville Urban Wilderness, offering access to other trails and natural areas. It's also close to downtown Knoxville for further exploration.
Absolutely! High Ground Park is a great option for a day trip, offering a peaceful escape with beautiful views and a touch of history.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
High Ground Park and Fort Higley are generally free to enter, making it an accessible destination for all visitors.
While specific hours aren't always posted, parks are typically open from dawn until dusk. It's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
No, Fort Higley is an open historical site within the park, and no advance ticket booking is required. You can explore it freely during park hours.
Standard park rules apply, such as respecting the environment and other visitors. Be mindful of any posted signage regarding specific areas or activities.
Some paved paths offer accessibility, but the terrain can be uneven in parts. It's advisable to check with local park authorities for the most up-to-date accessibility information.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy panoramic views of Knoxville, explore the historical Fort Higley, and walk along various paved and dirt trails. It's a great spot for nature walks and picnics.
Trail maintenance can vary. While some paths are well-kept, others might be more natural. Visitors have noted both positive and negative experiences with litter.
Fort Higley is a remnant of a Civil War-era fortification, offering a historical perspective on the area's past.
Yes, families can enjoy the park. The paved paths are suitable for strollers, and the open spaces are great for kids to explore.
The summit overlook provides the most iconic photo opportunities with its expansive city views. Fall foliage also offers beautiful backdrops.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly within High Ground Park. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks for a picnic.
Since the park is close to downtown Knoxville, you'll find a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries in the downtown area offering diverse cuisines.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity at High Ground Park. It's an ideal spot to enjoy a meal amidst nature and scenic views.
Typically, there are no regular food vendors at High Ground Park. It's best to plan your meals in advance or visit nearby dining establishments.
Bring your own food, drinks, and any necessary utensils. Consider a blanket or portable chairs for comfort.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer the best lighting for capturing the city views and natural landscapes.
The park is excellent for landscape photography, cityscapes, nature shots, and historical photography due to Fort Higley.
The main overlook at the summit provides the most expansive and popular viewpoint for capturing Knoxville's skyline.
Visitors suggest visiting during fall for vibrant colors and being mindful of potential litter in some areas.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's recommended to check with local park authorities or the city of Knoxville for any restrictions on drone operation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to make the most of your visit. It's a relaxed way to enjoy a meal with a view. While the park offers a natural escape, be mindful of the terrain and ensure children are supervised, especially near any steeper inclines or historical structures.
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna as you traverse the paths. The historical elements of Fort Higley add another layer of interest to your exploration. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and bring water, especially if you plan on a longer trek.
📸 Photographers & View Seekers
Beyond the main overlook, explore different angles and perspectives within the park. The historical remnants of Fort Higley also offer unique photographic subjects. Be prepared for varied lighting conditions and consider bringing a tripod for sharper shots, especially in lower light.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails and Terrain
The park's layout means you can enjoy a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike. The Knoxville Urban Wilderness encompasses High Ground Park, suggesting a network of interconnected trails for those looking to extend their exploration. Be prepared for varied surfaces and inclines as you discover the park's natural beauty.
Pro Tip: If you're visiting with young children or have mobility concerns, sticking to the paved sections might be more enjoyable. However, the dirt paths offer a closer connection to nature and can be rewarding for avid hikers.
The Historical Significance of Fort Higley
Exploring Fort Higley allows visitors to step back in time and imagine the historical events that unfolded on this very ground. It's a quiet place for reflection and learning about local history. The fort is integrated into the park's landscape, making it a natural part of the exploration.
Community Insight: Many visitors appreciate the historical aspect of the park, finding it adds an educational layer to their visit. It's a reminder of the area's rich and complex history, making the park more than just a scenic overlook.
Capturing Knoxville's Skyline
Best time for photos: Many recommend visiting in the fall when the surrounding trees are ablaze with color, creating a beautiful contrast with the urban landscape. However, be aware that during seasons with dense foliage, the view might be partially obscured.
While the main overlook is the prime spot, exploring different vantage points within the park can also yield unique shots. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and the environment when taking photos.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit