Southern Trails
About the Trails
Southern’s 1,300-acre campus, nestled in a quiet valley, includes 800 acres of forest,
crisscrossed with nearly 40 miles of hiking and biking trails. The trails are spread
across White Oak Mountain on the west side of the valley and Bauxite Ridge on the
east. They stretch from the lowest point of the valley to the ridge tops overlooking
the university. The trail system is perfect for walkers, hikers, mountain bikers,
and cross-country trail runners. With sections of varying difficulty, the trails are
suitable for everything from a lazy meander to a muscle-toning endurance workout.
The pine and hardwood forest through which the trails wind is also a paradise for
the nature enthusiast, with wildflowers, birds, a creek habitat, and many other natural
features.
The trails are maintained by Landscape Services. For more information, call 423.236.2747
The trails are maintained by Landscape Services. For more information, call 423.236.2747
Trail Maps
The Lands of Fenton Forest
In 2015, Southern gave the name “Fenton Forest” to its wooded areas on Bauxite Ridge.
This immortalizes a series of parables—based in a fictional Fenton Forest—written
by former Southern president Gordon Bietz, which he frequently used as sermon illustrations.
The trail names in this area are also inspired by the stories.
All are welcome to enjoy Southern’s trails, surrounded by God’s beautiful creations.
Please respect the facilities and follow the posted blazes, notices, and etiquette.
Give to the Trails
Southern Adventist University's hiking and mountain biking trails are enjoyed by
our students, employees, alumni, and members of the local community. If you would
like to contribute financially to the improvement of these resources, please consider
giving online.