Backbone Rock - Shady Valley, TN
Backbone Rock Dog Park & Nature Trail – Shady Valley, Tennessee
Nestled in the heart of Shady Valley, Tennessee, Backbone Rock offers a unique outdoor experience for both dog owners and nature lovers. Known locally for its breathtaking water-carved tunnel through rock and scenic pet-friendly trails, this park is perfect for those seeking dog-friendly hiking or a relaxing day out with their pets. The shaded parking, tranquil creek, and wooded walking loops create a cool, peaceful atmosphere no matter the season.
The park features a spacious, fully fenced-in dog park right near the parking area, where dogs can safely roam and play off-leash. The dog area is shaded, making it comfortable even on warmer days, though it currently offers basic amenities—so it’s a good idea to bring your own water and toys. Steps away, a picturesque storybook nature trail loops through the woods, with activities for kids at several stops and splash-worthy creeks along the way, making it a true family destination in the tri-cities region.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Yes, dogs are allowed off-leash in the designated fenced dog park area.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? Yes, there is a large fenced-in dog park near the front of the parking lot.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, both the dog park and trails feature plenty of natural shade from mature trees.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, the park includes a storybook trail with multiple play activity stops for children.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Backbone Rock has several pet-friendly trails and nature walks right from the parking area.
- Where is the best place to park? There is shaded parking directly at the park entrance, near the dog park and trailheads.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? Yes, the park is described as well-maintained and tidy in visitor reviews.
Reviews
Ha, I had to go back second day to find it. Roads were poorly marked from the north. Next day came in from Shady Valley.
This was something of nature I have always wanted to see, where a water cut was between two mountains. Ok, that’s the rock. The tunnel was what you want see, and the beautiful stream that cits around it.
Plenty shaded parking, just be very cautious re entering roadway. Even standing there under huge trees you have to look around and realize how many trains loaded with previous trees passed through that rock.
Ha, I had to go back second day to find it. Roads were poorly marked from the north. Next day came in from Shady Valley.
This was something of nature I have always wanted to see, where a water cut was between two mountains. Ok, that’s the rock. The tunnel was what you want see, and the beautiful stream that cits around it.
Plenty shaded parking, just be very cautious re entering roadway. Even standing there under huge trees you have to look around and realize how many trains loaded with previous trees passed through that rock.
Awesome place to spend the day wandering around. The river is beautiful, I love putting my feet in the water every chance I get. Lots of places to explore here.
Awesome place to spend the day wandering around. The river is beautiful, I love putting my feet in the water every chance I get. Lots of places to explore here.
Fun hike!! Very short with fun views and places to get on the rocks. If you are afraid of heights you might want to skip going up top.
Fun hike!! Very short with fun views and places to get on the rocks. If you are afraid of heights you might want to skip going up top.
Beautiful place! The walk up to the top is steep but there are steps in most places. The trail is narrow and I would not recommend taking small children. There is a picnic area on one side and what appears to be a seasonal bathroom on the other side. I greatly enjoyed my time here. I plan on doing the .3 mile hike and going to the falls the next time I go!
Beautiful place! The walk up to the top is steep but there are steps in most places. The trail is narrow and I would not recommend taking small children. There is a picnic area on one side and what appears to be a seasonal bathroom on the other side. I greatly enjoyed my time here. I plan on doing the .3 mile hike and going to the falls the next time I go!
Worlds shortest railroad tunnel. The best view is on the road, there is a trail that leads to the top of Backbone rock but there isn’t a view that warrants the hike. It’s short but no views that I found. There is a waterfall and picnic table across the road from the parking lot, close to here as well, making this a nice stop for some natural scenery.
Worlds shortest railroad tunnel. The best view is on the road, there is a trail that leads to the top of Backbone rock but there isn’t a view that warrants the hike. It’s short but no views that I found. There is a waterfall and picnic table across the road from the parking lot, close to here as well, making this a nice stop for some natural scenery.