Park 1: Seven Islands State Birding Park

Seven Islands State Birding Park

Trail Summary: Seclusion Bend

• Easy
• Great for Children, Dogs and Trail Running
• 5.1 Miles
• Views of water and birding

Miles was 6 weeks old for his first trip to a state park. Taking Miles out at an early age was simple and little was needed to keep him warm due to an unusual warm February and March.

I had been to Seven Islands once to kayak, but never walked around the park. Sitting on 416 acres on the French Broad River, this small park has 8 miles of walking trails, which is mowed in large flat paths. Nothing much more than a water bottle is needed for these easy trails.

We walked a trail with a view of the water, which was muddy due to it being the end of the winter. It was a pretty day and the path had numerous benches, which was perfect for me as I was recovering from a C-Section. While I couldn’t see myself revisiting this park numerous times, I want to share the highlights of the park to encourage others to visit.

1. Kayaking: You can easily kayak from the park. Parking was plentiful and we felt comfortable leaving the car unattended. To kayak, park at Seven IslandsLanding, different than the main parking entrance. Use this map to make sure you park in the right place. Check the events page, link below, to find out how you can reserve kayak rentals a few times a month. This is the PERFECT place for beginner novice kayakers. Smooth water and an island you can stop at as a turnaround point.

1. Dirt/Grass Trail for Kids: Seclusion Bend Trail, which starts at Seven Island Landing, is a wide straight trail. Be mindful, this trail is next to the water so small kids should stay close. This trail is also nice for elderly or someone who wants to ease into cardio walking/running. Pack a small picnic basket and enjoy the birds while tossing a ball or watching boats go by. Benches sprinkle the trail for convenient seating. 
2. Beginner Bike Training: This park has the Kelly Lane Greenway, a paved 2.7 out and back trail. Lightly trafficked and next to the parking lot makes this the perfect place for kids to ride their bike. The trail passes two scenic barns, and old homes, making the bike ride perfect for kids with limited attention spans.
3. Events, Events Events: Kids Programs, Yoga, Paddling – I will stress this ongoing in this blog – the TN State Park Group has top notch programs.