Now that we have said goodbye to the sweltering heat of August, and autumn is just about to tap us on the shoulder, we have a wonderful opportunity to get outside and enjoy some fresh air and tranquility. Of course, I have just the spot to see some great sights, hear nothing manmade and breathe some fresh mountain air (your lungs will love you for this).
I am sure many of you outdoorsy folks have at least viewed part of today’s destination.
Dennis Cove offers a variety of outdoor opportunities for people at all different levels of outdoor experience.
There are several waterfalls as well as a variety of hiking and camping opportunities. And yes, there’s some great fishing up there as well.
Regardless of your skill level, you’ll at least find something enjoyable here, and with the fall colors nearly ready to explode, this area will be a fantasyland in the coming weeks.
Laurel Falls is one of the most familiar landmarks of this site. This large cascade provides one of the most scenic and tranquil places in the Southeast. The stream, Laurel Fork, starts near the Tennessee/North Carolina state line and winds its way down through a narrow gorge in the national forest before opening up in Hampton, Tenn.
If you like, you can hike the entire length of the steam in the national forest. Another access to this area lies in Hampton, although entering from this end is slightly longer and more difficult.
All along Laurel Fork are backcountry campsites where one can enjoy being engrossed in nature.
Should you like camping, but with a few more amenities, the Dennis Cove campground offers developed campsites and bathrooms. It is also located along Laurel Fork, so you can still go to sleep with the sounds of water rushing down the mountain.
Another waterfall is Coon Den Falls. This one lies on an old portion of the Appalachian Trail. Most people often overlook this small 60-foot waterfall. However, it is worth checking out, especially if you like to hike.
The access to Coon Den Falls is a little difficult to find, but the best route is to make a loop by taking the Appalachian Trail south (north takes you to Laurel Falls) up the mountain. When you reach the top of the mountain a little more than a mile later, continue a little further, and you will see the sign directing you to Coon Den Falls. Simply descend down the mountain to the falls. Follow the trail out to Dennis Cove Road and walk back to your car.
If you want to do more serious hiking, don’t take the Coon Den Falls trail. Instead, continue on the Appalachian Trail up White Rocks Mountain. This hike will test your endurance with several steep climbs to the top, but you will be rewarded with some amazing views along the way.
At the top, near the communications tower, you can turn around and head back to Dennis Cove or continue on the trail to several access points from highway 19E near Roan Mountain.
You can also go on a unique hike in Dennis Cove. I only recommend this hike for those who have some serious physical endurance. This trail near the campground is easy to spot with the fishing regulations posted near the gate at the trailhead.
The trail crosses the stream on a series of cables. Yes, cables. You must figure out how to carry your body and anything else you may have across the stream on these pieces of wire. It can be done, but is very difficult and dangerous.
Be careful if you choose to attempt this. On this trail, you will find evidence of the logging days in this area as well as some beautiful secluded places to relax after straining every muscle in your body to get there.
While all of Laurel Fork is an excellent stream for fishing, upper Laurel Fork offers some of the finest wild trout fishing around. It is strictly regulated, so be sure to read and follow the rules, because rangers do keep watch.
The Dennis Cove/Laurel Fork area offers a wide variety of activities to suit the needs of anyone who finds enjoyment in getting outside. I recommend you get a good map or have a knowledgeable person with you. Most anyone can make the hike to Laurel Falls, and the other hikes can be done with a little bit of huffing and puffing.Directions: Take Highway 67 from Johnson City through Elizabethton. Turn right onto highway 19E at the Food City store. Follow 19E to Hampton. Turn left onto Highway 321 at the Shell station. Follow 321 to Dennis Cove Road on your right (there are brown forest service signs pointing you to the road). Dennis Cove Road is steep and narrow in some places, so be careful. Once in Dennis Cove, you will first come to the Laurel Falls trailhead, which is also the Appalachian Trail. Park here and choose your hike (2.5 miles to Laurel Falls, 4.5 miles to White Rocks Mountain), or continue to the campground and Upper Laurel Fork trail. Approximate driving time: 35 minutes.

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