Momentum through the Mountains: Expanding the Cumberland Trail

Across the rugged terrain of the Cumberland Plateau, meaningful conservation progress is taking root—fueled by persistence, collaboration, and a deep respect for wild places. At the heart of this effort is the Cumberland Trail, Tennessee’s first and only linear state park, and a longtime priority for TennGreen Land Conservancy.

Spanning more than 300 miles from Cumberland Gap to the Tennessee River Gorge, the Justin P. Wilson Cumberland Trail State Scenic Trail threads through some of the most biologically rich and geologically unique landscapes in the Southeast. But this trail isn’t just a path through the woods—it’s a bold vision for connectivity, climate resilience, and community access to the outdoors.

Since our founding, TennGreen has helped conserve thousands of acres along the Trail corridor, including well-known jewels like Black Mountain, Brady Mountain, and Devilstep Hollow. And the momentum is only building. This spring, TennGreen added more land to this growing network of protected lands: a 58-acre parcel near Wartburg that links key trail segments and shelters critical headwater streams, thanks to funding provided by The Nature Conservancy’s Tennessee Chapter’s Justin P. Wilson Cumberland Trail grant program.

Each of these projects reflects a shared commitment: to keep wild places wild, to connect people with nature, and to ensure that future generations can experience the wonder of the Plateau firsthand.

Why the Trail Matters

The Cumberland Trail is more than scenic. It’s necessary. Its route protects an unbroken ribbon of habitat through forested ridges and deep hollows—linking wildlife corridors and safeguarding clean water sources along the Sequatchie, Piney, and Emory rivers. These connections are critical in a region increasingly threatened by unchecked development and resource extraction.

TennGreen’s Strategic Land Conservation Plan prioritizes areas like this—places where the stakes are high, the biodiversity is rich, and the opportunity for lasting impact is clear. With every new acquisition, we’re filling in the map, closing the gaps, and strengthening this living corridor of conservation.

A Connected Future

It takes a lot to build a 300-mile trail—and even more to ensure that the lands it crosses are permanently protected. That’s where TennGreen’s work comes in. Our role is dynamic and adaptive: identifying at-risk parcels, working directly with willing landowners, securing funding, and coordinating with partners like Tennessee State Parks, The Nature Conservancy, The Conservation Fund, and many others.

This important work is possible not only by generous donors and collaborative partners, but also by leadership at the highest levels of state government. TennGreen applauds Governor Bill Lee for his commitment to completing the Cumberland Trail during his administration—a bold and meaningful goal that reflects the Trail’s value to Tennesseans and visitors alike. His support has elevated the importance of trail connectivity and conservation across the state, and we are deeply grateful for his recognition that protected lands are essential to Tennessee’s future. As the Trail nears completion, we hope future leaders will continue to champion funding for outdoor recreation, land protection, and the health of our shared natural resources.

These collaborative efforts have resulted in one of the most exciting conservation stories in the state—a story of how small tracts can add up to something big. Each mile protected is a promise: a promise of access, habitat, clean water, and connection.

And the work isn’t done.

You Make It Possible

Behind every acre saved is a community that made it happen. TennGreen’s progress along the Cumberland Trail corridor wouldn’t be possible without visionary donors, engaged partners, and local landowners who understand what’s at stake. Whether you gave to a matching campaign, volunteered on a trail crew, or shared our mission with a friend—you’re part of this story, too.

As we look ahead, TennGreen remains committed to protecting the places that make Tennessee wild and wonderful. The Cumberland Trail is a shining example of what we can achieve together—and why this work is more than just a mission. It’s a responsibility.

If you or anyone you know stands ready to protect land along the Cumberland Plateau or anywhere in Tennessee, reach out to our conservation experts at land@tenngreen.org.

For more information, please see our Protect Your Land page.

Top Photo: Cumberland Trail sign, courtesy of Tennessee State Parks