Tennessee is known for its 12 "great lakes," like Center Hill Lake, Dale Hollow Lake, and Chickamauga Lake, but many of these watery behemoths are tucked away in the mid-state. There’s something magical about mountain lakes. Maybe it’s the shock of those craggy peaks that rise above the waterfront, or perhaps it’s the sudden proximity of summer and winter vacation destinations. Steele Creek Lake can be found just outside of Bristol, Tennessee in Steele Creek Park, and this gem of a mountain lake is one of the best spots for the whole family to visit.
Steele Creek Lake is located in the aptly named Steele Creek Park, and it is one of the largest municipal parks in Tennessee. The third-largest, in fact, and the park stretches out over more than 2,000 acres. The water is full of fish and cold, and you will find folks hiking the lakefront throughout the year.
Steele Creek Park is the Tennessee park that almost wasn’t, since it was originally planned as a part of a state park in the 1930s and the opportunity was abandoned in 1945. After an almost two-decade wait, Mayor Stacy Grayson announced plans to construct a park on the property. Steel Creek Park officially opened to the public of Tennessee in 1964.
The lake boasts multiple hiking trails, but one of the most popular is the Lake Ridge Trail. At 4.6 miles in its entirety, the challenging hiking route takes roughly two hours to complete. Note that though the loop trail is popular and well-trafficked it is moderately difficult. Make sure you wear the proper shoes!
Steele Creek Park also boasts a nature center, and you can opt for a guided hike or a walk through the park’s museum. The Steele Creek Park Nature Center has over 5,000 square feet of space perfect for exploring, and the facility hosts exhibits on the natural ecosystems that surround the lake.
Steele Creek Lake is not open for swimming, but there is a splash pad for kids in the park. There is a small dock and ramp for boats, and there are even paddle boats available for rent during the summertime. There is a $2 admission fee for all cars and $10 for buses.
Have you been to Steele Creek Lake? Do you think you will be frequenting the park sometime soon?
What a beautiful place to visit! You can learn more about Steel Creek Lake on the official Bristol website, or perhaps by checking out the trails that surround it. This off-the-beaten-path mountain lake is well worth a visit, friends!
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