Obed wild and scenic river For more information: Obed Wild and Scenic River, 208 North Madien Street, Wartburg, TN 37887. Let's uncover some of the lesser-known river fords that make this area special. Apr 14, 2015 · The Obed Wild and Scenic River presents tourists and visitors with many different recreational opportunities. This river, with its rugged beauty and hidden spots, offers a unique experience for those willing to explore its secrets. Sandstone rock faces provide challenging climbing opportunities for experienced climbers, while hikers can take a relaxing stroll or more challenging hike to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Rock Creek Campground is located near the Emory River in the Obed Wild and Scenic River. The visitor center is found in Wartburg, TN and this was our first stop to get maps, park brochures and talk to the ranger. May 20, 2015 · Climbers from all over the world can be found hanging from the Obed Wild and Scenic River's imposing expanses of rock. Rock climbing tests your strength, endurance, and dexterity. Apr 11, 2025 · DIRECTIONS TO CAMPGROUND FROM VISITOR CENTER (6 miles one way): Turn right out of the visitor center parking lot onto Maiden Street and drive until you reach the intersection of Main Street. Obed WSR offers visitors a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities in an environment Jan 20, 2025 · Obed Wild & Scenic River is one of these special places with a truly dark night sky. The Lilly Arch near the end of the Point Trail is one of the most unique rock features of the Obed. NPS. Mar 17, 2023 · The Obed Wild and Scenic River looks much the same today as it did when the first white settlers strolled its banks in the late 1700s. River paddling excursions combine excitement with skill and adventure. National Park Service) Although this is a web guide written by hikers for hikers, the best way to explore the Obed isn’t necessarily on foot. The site is the only Federal scenic river in Tennessee. Several groups of Native American people may have attempted to farm the poor-quality soil surrounding the river, but quickly abandoned any hope of agriculture in favor Nov 8, 2017 · Obed Wild and Scenic River consists of about 2,020 hectares of land within roughly 400 meters on either side of the Obed River in Tennessee, U. On average each nest contains about 2,500 eggs. Dec 2, 2021 · The Obed Wild & Scenic River is much smaller than the Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area (5,000 acres vs. Obed/Emory Wild and Scenic River Float Trip Jun 17, 2024 · A wealth of recreational opportunities await those who explore the Obed Wild and Scenic River. The Obed was included in a study for the first national Wild and Scenic Rivers (WSRs) Act in 1968 and was eventually designated a Wild and Scenic River in 1976. For More Information Visit: Obed River - rivers. Most of the people who go fishing on Clear Creek, Daddy's Creek, and the Obed River will successfully reel in a smallmouth bass during the peak fishing seasons From Alley Ford to Nemo Bridge is within the Obed Wild and Scenic River federal lands managed by the National Park Service, and is sometimes referred to as the “Nemo Bridge Trail. The trail leaves Rock Creek Campground and includes many ascents and descents along the Obed River leading to remote overlooks that offer solitude and sweeping views of the gorge. Unfortunately, if you have limited experience with whitewater paddling, you have quite a bit of homework to do before you will be ready to negotiate the park's streams safely. The 45 miles that comprise the river system includes whitewater runs that range from Class II to Class IV. It has several tributaries that are popular for whitewater rafting and are maintained by the National Park Service. Learn about its history, wildlife, recreation, and dark sky status. Generally considered a highly challenging route, it takes an average of 5 h 51 min to complete and should only be attempted by experienced adventurers. Most anglers fish at the Lilly and Nemo sections of the river, but still other people enjoy the solitude of Explore the range of experiences to be found in this spectacular geologically diverse valley sometimes called the Great Lakes of the South. Despite my wife being from nearby Oak Ridge we had never visited this site before. Among Obed’s interpretive themes is a primary goal to reconnect life and nature by discussing the value of quiet, solitude, and even darkness in the noisy, frenetic, and developed world of the 21st century. Obed Wild and Scenic River stretches along the Cumberland Plateau and offers visitors whitewater rafting and rock climbing. There is a family friendly campground and trails/overlooks that are very accommodating to families, however, this park is really best for three things: Climbing, whitewater and Trekking. S. The Obed Wild and Scenic River drains a portion of the Cumberland Plateau in Tennessee. Tennessee's Obed Wild and Scenic River is a treasure for those who love nature and adventure. Emory River, Clear Creek from the Morgan County line to the confluence with the Obed River, Daddys Creek from the Morgan County line to the confluence with the Obed River, and the Emory River from the confluence with the Obed River to the Nemo bridge. ” Time Travel Alert: Be aware that the southern trailhead at Devil’s Breakfast Table is in Central Time and the Nemo Bridge Trailhead at the north is in Eastern Jan 5, 2016 · The Tennessee Scenic Rivers Act did indeed pass in 1968, but the Obed had been amended off it! During the same year, the national Wild & Scenic Rivers Act was wending its way through the Congress, and the Obed supporters, quietly but effectively, set to work to get the Obed included in the category of rivers to be studied for possible inclusion Congress added the Obed Wild and Scenic River (WSR) to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System Oct. Obed River is a stream in Tennessee that flows through a scenic gorge and is part of the National Wild and Scenic River system. gov Homepage (U. 125,000 acres) but the two National Park Service units were established at roughly the same time (the BSF in 1974 and the Obed WSR in 1976) and are managed jointly, making the Obed a sister park to the BSF. Hiking along our trails can be both relaxing and challenging. A scenic overlook is located at Lilly Bluff. Wild whitewater running through 500-foot deep gorges Oct 8, 2017 · Established by Congress in 1976, the Obed Wild and Scenic River protects parts of four different streams–the Obed River, Emory River, Clear Creek, and Daddy’s Creek–and is approximately forty-five miles in length. Kayaking, canoeing, and rafting are popular seasonal activities. Feb 14, 2016 · The Obed Wild and Scenic River Visitor Center is located at: 208 North Maiden Street Wartburg, Tennessee. Jun 30, 2020 · Everything you need to know to plan a visit to Obed Wild and Scenic River in Tennessee. From white water to flat water paddling; from bouldering to wildflower hikes; from wakeboarding to sailing, from bass fishing to fly fishing; from antiquing to live music, there is an adventure waiting to be discovered by you. Through a cooperative agreement, lands within Obed Wild and Scenic River that are Jun 15, 2022 · Cumberland Trail – Obed River Section Distance: 14. This is a popular trail for backpacking, hiking, and running, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. Together these waterways have created a rugged landscape of wild land and water found in relatively few places east of the Mississippi River. The Obed WSR is managed jointly by the National Park Service (NPS), of the Department of the Interior, and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. Our family loves visiting various National Park System sites so over Memorial Day weekend we made a visit to Obed Wild & Scenic River. Wild whitewater running through 500-foot deep gorges 3 days ago · There is a second parking area located 300 yards beyond the primary parking area. May 24, 2015 · The Obed Wild and Scenic River offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities for everyone. 3 miles before reaching a boardwalk with stunning views of the river and cliffs. There are numerous waterfalls both in the river and falling off the steep walls of the canyons. Since then, the Obed has been one of the few WSRs managed by the National Park Service. Nov 16, 2024 · Hidden River Fords of Tennessee's Obed. Many people enjoy hiking along the Lilly Bluff Overlook trail and viewing the river from a May 1, 2020 · The history of the Obed Wild and Scenic River traces back many centuries. Want to find the best trails in Obed Wild and Scenic River for an adventurous hike or a family trip? AllTrails has 8 great trails for hiking and more. May 20, 2015 · There are several places for you to see when visiting the Obed Wild and Scenic River. Make a left onto Kingston Street, and follow the brown Obed road signs to the visitor center on North Maiden Street. The Rock Creek Campground, which is just a short distance from Nemo, offers overnight camping on a first-come/first-served basis. Difficulty: Very Strenuous. This path meanders through the forest and leads to some stunning rock formations at the end. One of those popular activities is fishing. The Obed is not a multi-day family destination park. Ready for your next hike or bike ride? Explore one of 3 easy hiking trails in Obed Wild and Scenic River that are great for the whole family. Obed Wild & Scenic River. gov Emory River, Clear Creek from the Morgan County line to the confluence with the Obed River, Daddys Creek from the Morgan County line to the confluence with the Obed River, and the Emory River from the confluence with the Obed River to the Nemo bridge. The trail to Lily Bluff Overlook in the Obed Wild and Scenic River Area is an extremely short and easy hike, perfect for families or those seeking a quick escape to a beautiful view. Rock climbing and boulder climbing are also available at the park. 7 reviews and 15 photos of OBED WILD AND SCENIC RIVER "Wild and Scenic is a good thing. Starry night skies are an important part of the special places protected by the National Park Service. Looking for a May 20, 2015 · The Obed Wild and Scenic River features spectacular whitewater streams that draw seasoned paddlers from all parts of the Eastern United States. Partnership agreements with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency are in place to manage Obed Wild and Scenic River - 01 Obed Wild and Scenic River In This Issue Page 2 Park Information Page 3Finally, funded in part by a grant from the National Park Foundation, the park recently Hemlock Woolly Adelgid Park Recycling News Park Volunteer Information Water Quality Page 4 Rock Climbing Whitewater Paddling National Park Service From Knoxville and east, take I-40 to US 27 north. One of the best places to view the river up close is at Nemo, where restrooms, picnic tables and grills are available. You can go right up to the river's edge at various locations within the 45-mile stretch of river property that is owned by the National Park Service. This beautiful river is popular with kayakers and paddlers. Cutting deeply into the sandstone of the Jun 24, 2022 · Explore the Obed River's whitewater rapids, rock climbing routes, hiking trails, and wildlife in this national park. housman - January 15th, 2025 2:20am Obed Wild & Scenic River, Wartburg, Tennessee. Today, the Obed stretches along the Cumberland Plateau and offers visitors a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities. Although this path does not directly lead to the river, there is a small spur trail at the beginning that offers beautiful views of the water and adds a short distance to your journey. While meagerly populated due to poor farming soil, the river was a hospitable fishing and hunting area for trappers and pioneers. The river flows through Tennessee passing through gorges that reach up to 500-feet deep. Embrace the Beauty of Obed Wild and Scenic River. Partnership agreements with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency are in place to manage. In its totality, this document presents a shared understanding of the purpose, significance, fundamental resources and values, primary interpretive themes, and special Apr 14, 2015 · Males may spawn with several females on a single nest. The history of the Obed Wild and Scenic River traces back many centuries. The best times to visit this trail 4 days ago · Scenic River Area the section from the western edge of the Catoosa Wildlife Management Area to the confluence with the Emory River; Clear Creek from the Morgan County line to the confluence with the Obed River, Daddy’s Creek from the Morgan County line to the confluence with the Obed River; and the Emory River from the confluence with the The Obed Wild & Scenic River Visitor Center is located at 208 North Maiden Street in downtown Wartburg, Tennessee. There are a number of climbing areas within the Obed worth exploring, ranging from bouldering to multi-pitch traditional routes. The National Park Service and the Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency (TWRA) have joined forces to protect and manage this unique area. The overlook is particularly breathtaking Dec 12, 2019 · What is there to see at the Obed Wild and Scenic River? Most people come to see the river itself. Nov 5, 2019 · Learn about the park's location, hours, fees, activities, and safety tips. To get the most out of your visit, start at the park's visitor center to chat with a ranger, pick up publications, purchase a gift at the Eastern National outlets, and find out about scheduled programs, and special events. Find out how to access the river, camp, hike, fish, hunt, climb, and more. Encompassing 5,000 acres of the Cumberland Plateau, Obed Wild and Scenic River protects the free-flowing Obed River, Clear Creek, Emory River, and its tributaries; impressive 400-foot-deep gorges carved out by the Obed River; 45 mile river system includes paddling opportunities for quiet floats to whitewater runs that range from Class II to Class IV; 23 miles of hiking trails that range from Trail workers are needed at Obed Wild & Scenic River's annual Cumberland Trail work day. Each site has a picnic table, food storage locker, fire ring with grill, lantern hook and paved parking. 12,1976. Obed Wild and Scenic River offers a unique blend of adventure, tranquility, and natural beauty. You can explore the rugged terrain, discover hidden waterfalls, and enjoy panoramic views from mountaintops. Jul 13, 2021 · Maps, brochures, and publications of Obed Wild and Scenic River can be obtained at the visitor center, located at 208 North Maiden Street in downtown Wartburg, Tennessee. Mar 17, 2023 · Explore the free-flowing Obed River and its 500-foot-deep gorges in Tennessee. 5-mile point--point trail near Lancing, Tennessee. From the West Directions: The Obed Wild and Scenic River is a narrow crows foot shaped park in rural Morgan and Cumberland County. Rock climbing is another challenging activity, as is boulder climbing. 2 miles one way. The Obed's cliffs are especially well known for being "steep," which in climber's lingo means that they often lean back beyond vertical and become overhanging. From the East Take State Route 62 West, then veer to the right onto State Route 27. Read more about Help Out At The Obed Wild & Scenic River's Annual Cumberland Trail Workday By justin. TO REACH THE OBED COUNTRY From Nashville, drive east on I-40,114 miles to the Genesis Rd. This fact makes it easy for us to imagine what life around the river must have been like for the Native people and the early pioneers. Phone (423) 346-6294. Rock Creek Campground has 11 campsites. Proceed cautiously on this 12. Learn about the park's history, activities, and tips from the chief of interpretation. Obed Wild and Scenic River consists of sections of four different streams—Daddys Creek, Clear Creek, Emory River, and the Obed—within the same watershed. Whitewater paddling is available seasonally in the Obed WSR. This pristine, non-dammed river attracts whitewater boaters to some of the finest paddling (class I-IV rapids) in the United States. Oct 12, 2008 · Obed Wild and Scenic River, sister to Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, is tucked away in the wilds of Tennessee’s Morgan and Cumberland Counties where it protects a 45-mile stretch of one of the South's last free-flowing streams. Please use the link for more information. Starting from the second parking lot, the trail leads through a hemlock forest for about 0. All roads leading to and from the parks access points are two lane "country highways" at best, and 1 1/2 lane curvy, steep, country roads in places. The smallmouth bass can grow up to 24 inches long and weigh up to 12 pounds. Need to Know Jan 1, 2025 · The Obed Wild and Scenic River consists of sections of four streams: Daddys Creek, Clear Creek, Emory River, and the Obed River. Along with the tributaries of Daddy’s Creek and Clear Creek, the Obed River Wild and Scenic River (WSR) contains around 45 miles of the most scenic and challenging whitewater paddling in the Southeast and is known for near-continuous technical paddling. 12,860 likes · 863 talking about this · 11,461 were here. May 23, 2025 · Catoosa Wildlife Management Area: Adjacent to the Obed River, this area offers excellent opportunities to see deer, wild turkeys, and even the occasional black bear. Jan 28, 2016 · Developed in 2015, the Foundation Document (pdf) for Obed Wild & Scenic River provides basic guidance for decision-making and management of this unit of the National Park System. A vault toilet is also centrally located in the campground. Both US 127 and US 27 connect with TN 62 that skirts the northern edge of the Obed Wild and Scenic River area. Jun 15, 2023 · The Obed Wild and Scenic River is typically not found in the same conversations as Zion or Yosemite, but be assured this hidden gem of Tennessee is one of the East Coast's must climb destinations. This great National Park Service Site offers rock climbing, kayaking, hiking, rafting, and more. The Obed WSR sports several unique trails for hikers, most notably the Point Trail and a portion of the Cumberland The Obed River system is a high-quality, rainfall-runoff-dominated watershed characterized by extremes in stream flow, both in response to seasonal rainfall variation and individual storms. Obed Wild and Scenic River was added to the National Park System, in October 1976. Enjoy hand-curated trail maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you. These streams have been running their course for thousands of years, cutting into the sandstone of the Cumberland Plateau and creating a rugged landscape of wild land and water found in relatively few places in the Jan 25, 2023 · Obed Wild and Scenic River was designated as an International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark Sky Association (IDA) in 2017. The Obed River and its designated tributaries, Daddys Creek and Clear Creek, are located atop the Cumberland Plateau physiographic province in Tennessee. Feb 14, 2016 · A variety of outdoor activities await you at the Obed Wild and Scenic River. The Obed drains a part of the Cumberland Plateau… Dec 21, 2017 · The Obed Wild & Scenic River Visitor Center, in downtown Wartburg, Tennessee. Jun 15, 2022 · Cumberland Trail – Obed River Section Distance: 14. Jul 15, 2021 · The Obed, along with its tributary creeks and its confluence with the Emory River, was declared Wild and Scenic in 1976, but the Obed’s human history long predates that status. Feb 6, 2025 · The Obed Wild & Scenic River offers a plethora of activities for all levels of adventure: Hiking: With over 100 miles of trails, Obed is a hiker’s paradise. Outdoor adventure enthusiasts come from all over the world to enjoy the rock climbing and whitewater river sports available here. Oct 8, 2017 · Established by Congress in 1976, the Obed Wild and Scenic River protects parts of four different streams–the Obed River, Emory River, Clear Creek, and Daddy’s Creek–and is approximately forty-five miles in length. A variety of small game fish can be caught at virtually any spot along the river. Recreation includes whitewater kayaking, canoeing, rock climbing, hiking, fishing and picnicking. The Obed celebrates its 32nd birthday today, having become part of the National Park System on The Obed River system is a high-quality, rainfall-runoff-dominated watershed characterized by extremes in stream flow, both in response to seasonal rainfall variation and individual storms. Even so, the scenery still looks much the same as it did before America became a nation. The section terminus is at the Devils Breakfast Table trailhead. The free-flowing Obed Wild & Scenic River and its 500-foot-deep gorges offer visitors unspoiled rugged terrain, exceptional waters, and incredibly scenic views. dxvnd zthqkbyz vklbab ztom riyz nyxmfu gbykj kbqgka vwyll nlgkcrt