Panther Creek Horseback Riding
Warning Alert

Temporary Road Closure

Panther Creek State Park

NOTICE: The park road leading to the Smallman Shelter and overlook will be closed to vehicles from March 1, 2026, through May 15, 2026, while extensive renovations to the Lake Observation Platform are performed. The road to and around the first picnic area island will remain open to visitors and vehicular traffic. Foot travel beyond the closed area is permitted but visitors will not be permitted in the immediate area of the construction site.

Major Improvements at the Park

Panther Creek State Park

A capital improvement project to construct a day-use recreation lodge and new playground will begin at the park on Monday, April 13, 2026. The swimming pool parking lot, playground, playground restrooms, beach volleyball and basketball courts will be closed to the public during construction, which is scheduled to be completed by mid-year 2027.

The tennis courts and disc-golf course will remain open but parking for these amenities will be limited to the lots adjacent to the visitor center and Spoone shelter. This project will significantly enhance the quantity and quality of recreational opportunities provided by the park. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to complete this exciting new project for the benefit of our visitors.

Playground Closed For Renovation

Panther Creek State Park

The park playground will be permanently closed to the public beginning Tuesday, April 7, 2026. The existing playground will be removed, and a new playground will be constructed at the park. The new playground is scheduled to be completed by mid-year 2027 and will be a tremendous improvement over the existing playground.

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to improve the park for our visitors. If you have any questions, please contact the park office.

  • Five people share a peaceful horseback ride on a muddy forest trail, surrounded by lush green trees, evoking a sense of adventure and tranquility.
    • Book Now
    Autumn forest scene with vibrant orange leaves covering trees and path. The leafy ground and warm tones evoke a serene and cozy atmosphere.

    Horseback Riding at Panther Creek

    Panther Creek State Park covers approximately 1,444 acres and is located on the shores of Cherokee Lake.

    The park offers over 10 miles of scenic horse trails for equestrian riders. A horse trailer parking area is located just past the boat ramp. All riders must have proof of Coggins papers on them at all times. 

    Trails

    Listed below are the trails available for horseback riding at Panther Creek State Park. 

      Hunt Knob Trail

      Panther Creek State Park
      Distance
      3.80 mi.
      Difficulty
      Difficult
      Surface
      Natural
      The 3.8-mile Hunt Knob trail is the longest trail in the park. This scenic trail follows the perimeter of Cherokee Lake 1.75-miles before ascending Hunt Knob ridge. The trail offers variety from easy, strait, gently sloping sections along the lakeshore to strenuous, hilly sections around Hunt Knob. NOTE: The Hunt Knob trail is accessible only from the horse trail parking area along a 1.6-mile connector trail. The total length of the Hunt Knob trail and the connector trail is 5.4-miles.
      Availability
      Open
      Allowed
      Hiking Horseback Riding

      Maple Arch Trail

      Panther Creek State Park
      Distance
      3.20 mi.
      Difficulty
      Moderate
      Surface
      Natural
      The 3.2-mile Maple Arch trail loop is moderately difficult and features short, steep hills and one very steep ascent. This trail is named for the unique tendency of Red and Silver Maple trees to form arches as they grow over the trail corridor. Much of the trail follows the shoreline of Cherokee Lake before sharply ascending River Ridge. The Maple Arch trail is excellent for observing waterfowl and other wildlife and offers many captivating views of Cherokee Lake. NOTE: The Maple Arch trail loop...
      Availability
      Open
      Allowed
      Hiking Horseback Riding

    Need a Map?

    Explore our collection of printable and digital trail maps, organized by park. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or paddling, you’ll find the resources you need to navigate confidently.

     

    Find a Park Map

    Discover More at Panther Creek

    Visitor Center Gift Shop

    The Visitor Center Gift Shop is the perfect place to pick up a map, learn about the park, or find a souvenir. You’ll find an assortment of apparel and keepsakes to remember your trip to the park. 

    Address:
    2010 Panther Creek Road, Morristown TN, 37814
    1-423-587-7046

    Hours: 
    Monday - Friday 
    8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

    Saturday 
    8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

    Closed Sunday

    No events are scheduled at this time, but there's always more to explore.

    Find More Events

    More Parks with Horseback Riding

    Other Activities at Panther Creek State Park