The Appalachian Mountains near Johnson City present some of the most engaging river gorge hikes in the region. These trails invite hikers of all levels to engage with landscapes where rivers carve deeply, daring you to move closer and drink in their rugged energy. From forest-cloaked paths to forcing viewpoints poised above rushing water, the gorges here are fiercely themselves—bold, tactile, and raw.

Start with the Buffalo Mountain Trail, an 8.5-mile loop featuring steady elevation gains totaling approximately 1800 feet. Underfoot, the trail shifts between rocky sections and clear dirt tracks, twisting through hardwood forests where sunlight breaks through in patches. The South Fork River below snakes through sheer cliffs, its currents pushing forward with endless resolve. Reaching the overlook at Buffalo Mountain Peak rewards hikers with sweeping views of the river gorge spread wide—rough water and dense tree crowns in quiet opposition.

For a shorter option, the Watauga River Trail offers a 4-mile out-and-back path with a gentler 500-foot rise. The route traces the river closely, weaving alongside mossy boulders and whitewater riffles that speak of persistent motion. Occasional river grottos provide cool respite, and an elevated platform halfway offers a direct gaze into the gorge’s heart where water and rock spar constantly.

East Buffalo Gorge Trail, roughly 6 miles round trip with moderate elevation, blends rugged footing with panoramic vistas. Expect sections of loose rock and exposed roots demanding steady footing and attention. Here, the river dares you to respect its power—it crashes and coils below, shifting moods with every bend. The trail ends with a cliff-side viewpoint that offers close proximity to the gorge’s thunderous pulse.

Practical advice: aim to start early to avoid midday heat and bring at least 2 liters of water, especially in warmer months. Sturdy hiking shoes with good traction are critical for maneuvering slippery rocks and uneven paths. Check weather frequently; rain can turn the gorge trails treacherous quickly, turning swift streams into hazards.

These hikes aren’t just walks—they are negotiations with nature’s endurance and surprises. Expect to hear leaves rustle in the wind’s hurry, water sing in urgent cadence, and skies open wide in sudden bursts of light. Each step moves you through a landscape alive with tension and awe, urging steady respect and clear preparation. Whether you choose a challenging full day or a shorter acclimation, Johnson City’s river gorges promise scenic, practical, and invigorating adventure that sticks with you long after the last trail marker fades behind.