Citico Creek Wilderness – Image Gallery

Citico Creek Wilderness

The Citico Creek Wilderness in Tennessee is a remote, rugged area within the Cherokee National Forest known for its pristine streams and diverse wildlife.

Details

Citico Creek Wilderness

The Citico Creek Wilderness is located in the Cherokee National Forest in eastern Tennessee. It encompasses over 16,000 acres and is known for its rugged terrain, pristine streams, and diverse array of plant and animal species.

Features:

• Steep, rocky slopes
• Lush forests of oak, hickory, and pine
• Crystal-clear streams and cascading waterfalls
• Remote and secluded backcountry camping sites
• Miles of hiking trails, including the Citico Creek Trail and the Fodderstack Trail
• Abundant wildlife, including black bears, deer, and various bird species

Ecological Significance:

The Citico Creek Wilderness is home to a variety of plant and animal species that are unique to the region. The diverse forest types provide habitat for numerous species of birds, mammals, and reptiles. The clean, cold streams support populations of native brook trout and other aquatic species.

Due to its remote location and rugged terrain, the Citico Creek Wilderness remains relatively undisturbed by human activity, making it an important sanctuary for wildlife and a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a wilderness experience.

Citico Creek Wilderness

Points of Interest

Citico Creek Wilderness

Located within the Cherokee National Forest in eastern Tennessee, the Citico Creek Wilderness is a popular destination for hikers, backpackers, and nature enthusiasts. This remote wilderness area spans over 16,000 acres and offers a variety of outdoor activities and stunning natural beauty. Here are some of the most popular points of interest within the Citico Creek Wilderness:

1. Citico Creek

One of the main attractions in the Citico Creek Wilderness is the scenic Citico Creek, which flows through the heart of the wilderness area. The creek is known for its crystal-clear waters, towering trees, and abundance of wildlife. Visitors can enjoy fishing, swimming, and picnicking along the banks of Citico Creek.

2. Bob Bald

Bob Bald is a prominent peak within the Citico Creek Wilderness that offers sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Hikers can reach the summit of Bob Bald via a moderate trail that winds through lush forests and open meadows. The panoramic vistas from the top of Bob Bald are truly breathtaking.

3. Hangover Mountain

Hangover Mountain is another popular destination within the Citico Creek Wilderness, known for its rugged terrain and challenging hiking trails. The mountain is named for its distinctive overhanging cliffs, which provide a unique backdrop for outdoor adventures. Hikers can explore the diverse ecosystems and stunning vistas of Hangover Mountain.

4. Brush Mountain

Brush Mountain is a lesser-known gem within the Citico Creek Wilderness, offering quiet trails and secluded camping spots. The mountain is home to a variety of plant and animal species, making it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Visitors can hike, birdwatch, and stargaze in the peaceful surroundings of Brush Mountain.

5. Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest

Just a short drive from the Citico Creek Wilderness is the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, a designated old-growth forest with some of the largest trees in the eastern United States. Visitors can explore the forest via a network of hiking trails that wind through towering tulip poplars, hemlocks, and other ancient trees. The Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest is a must-see for nature lovers.

Overall, the Citico Creek Wilderness offers a wide range of attractions for outdoor enthusiasts, from scenic creeks and mountains to quiet forests and old-growth trees. Whether you're looking for a challenging hike or a peaceful retreat into nature, the Citico Creek Wilderness has something for everyone.

Citico Creek Wilderness – Images

Description: This image is in the public domain in the United States because it only contains materials that originally came from the United States Geological Survey, an agency of the United States Department of the Interior. For more information, see the official USGS copyright policy.

Image by U.S. Geological Survey from Reston, VA, USA – Public domain – Wikimedia

Description: A mixed pine and hardwood forest near the crest of Brush Mountain along Trail #54A in the Citico Creek Wilderness, in the southeastern United States.

Image by Brian Stansberry – CC BY 3.0 – Wikimedia

Description: Black-bellied salamander (Desmognathus quadramaculatus), Citico Creek Wilderness, Cherokee National Forest, Monroe County, Tennessee, United States

Image by Photographer: Alan Cressler, USGS – Public domain – Wikimedia

Description: South Fork of Citico Creek located in Citico Creek Wilderness, within the Cherokee National Forest in Monroe County, Tennessee.

Image by Chris M – CC BY-SA 2.0 – Wikimedia