Walls of Jericho Trail
A strenuous out-and-back drops from the Cumberland Plateau to Turkey Creek, Clark Cemetery, springs, and a high-walled limestone bowl on the Tennessee line.
Artwork inspired by John Kelly Fitzpatrick
The destination is below the trailhead, so the hardest work comes after the view. Karst springs and creek levels transform the final approach; at high water, the amphitheater can be dangerous or inaccessible.
Expect roughly six miles, substantial elevation change, slick crossings, mud, and limited cell service. Carry enough water for the climb out and check hunting seasons before bringing a dog or wearing low-visibility colors.
- Turkey Creek descent
- Steep descent precedes return climb
- Clark Cemetery
- Family history beside the trail
- limestone amphitheater
- Water carved the limestone walls
Quick guide
- Best first move
- Turkey Creek descent: A strenuous out-and-back drops from the Cumberland Plateau to Turkey Creek, Clark Cemetery, springs, and a high-walled limestone bowl on the Tennessee line.
- Most revealing detail
- Clark Cemetery gives the clearest route into a steep descent earns a limestone amphitheater.
Quick guide
- Start with
- Turkey Creek descent — A strenuous out-and-back drops from the Cumberland Plateau to Turkey Creek, Clark Cemetery, springs, and a high-walled limestone bowl on the Tennessee line.
- Look closely at
- Clark Cemetery — The destination is below the trailhead, so the hardest work comes after the view.
- Connect the story
- limestone amphitheater — Expect roughly six miles, substantial elevation change, slick crossings, mud, and limited cell service.
- Plan around
- Allow 4–7 hours; plan around limestone amphitheater and current access conditions.
Good to know
Turn around early if crossings rise; the return climb is long, and the dramatic final bowl is never worth a flood risk.
Notice these
- Turkey Creek descent
- Clark Cemetery
- limestone amphitheater