The Walls of Jericho offers a hiking experience where every step challenges and rewards equally. This 7.4-mile roundtrip trail crosses the Tennessee-Alabama border, taking you deep into a rugged gorge carved by limestone cliffs that dare you forward. Starting at the Estillfork trailhead in Alabama, the path descends steadily with an elevation change of about 1,400 feet, demanding strong legs but promising unforgettable sights.

As you follow the trail, the forest envelops you—oak and hickory whisper as the creek nearby pushes onto limestone slabs, crafting pools and waterfalls that cascade with persistence. These waterfalls aren’t just picturesque pauses but milestones marking your progress deeper into the wild's fierce embrace. The Walls, sheer limestone cliffs rising abruptly, frame the gorge, offering perspective on nature’s raw patience and power.

Terrain varies from packed dirt and loose rocks to narrow ledges, requiring attention and proper footwear. The trail’s steep sections pull your focus to footing and breathing, a practical interaction with the gorge’s rugged character. Expect to cross a few wooden bridges and scramble over roots that clutch the earth like an unwilling hold.

Water is both a companion and a challenge here—the Estill Fork creek threads alongside parts of the trail, sometimes gurgling energetically as if tempting you to pause and listen. Bring ample hydration; the exertion and humidity in summer elevate your needs, while spring and fall provide warmth tempered by cool breezes that meander through the gorge.

Plan your hike to start early, especially in summer, to beat midday heat. Morning light filters into the gorge, casting dramatic shadows along the cliffs and spotlighting moss-covered stones. Weekdays usually see fewer visitors, creating a quieter conversation with the wilderness.

Safety hinges on respect for the terrain’s demands: steady footing, mindful pace, and readiness for sudden weather shifts. Footwear with solid traction is non-negotiable; trail runners or hiking boots with ankle support will perform best. Alongside a good hydration system, pack layers for changing temperatures and rain protection.

The payoff unfolds at the south end, where waterfalls spill into serene pools surrounded by towering stone walls. This is the trail’s crescendo—pause here, absorb the power of falling water, the scent of wet earth, and the cool mist that the gorge breathes upon you.

Hiking the Walls of Jericho is an engagement with a landscape fiercely itself—demanding careful preparation and rewarding with its wild beauty and elemental force. Whether you’re here to chase waterfalls or conquer personal limits, this trail offers a balanced adventure that invites both the body and spirit to challenge and appreciate.