West Tennessee's autumn scenery takes center stage Saturday, October 24, when Big Hill Pond State Park hosts a ranger-led Fall Hike.

The guided outing offers a chance to trade busy schedules for hardwood forest, changing leaves, and wide views from one of the region's distinctive observation towers.

Visitors will meet at the Turkey Call Trailhead at 10 a.m. for a hike scheduled to conclude at noon.

Ranger Dylan Parmely will lead the group through the park's hardwood forest toward the observation tower.

The outing is approximately two miles long, and organizers describe the terrain as moderate.

The reward is a view above the treetops.

The tower provides a sweeping perspective across the West Tennessee landscape, giving hikers an opportunity to observe seasonal color stretching into the distance.

Park staff expect some autumn color, although the timing and intensity of foliage can vary with weather conditions.

That unpredictability is part of the appeal of a fall hike: each visit reveals a slightly different side of the woods.

Big Hill Pond State Park is located near Pocahontas in southwestern Tennessee, offering a natural getaway for residents willing to venture beyond the Memphis metropolitan area.

The park includes hardwood bottomlands, trails, wetland habitat, and the distinctive Dismal Swamp boardwalk.

Those features make the area interesting well beyond the peak fall foliage period.

What to know before you go

The hike takes place Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 10 a.m. until noon, starting at the Turkey Call Trailhead.

Registration is required through Tennessee State Parks, and a no-donation registration option is free.

Visitors may also select optional donation registration choices.

Organizers recommend sturdy footwear, drinking water, and insect repellent.

Because this is a moderately challenging guided outing, participants should consider their comfort with uneven terrain and walking approximately two miles.

Families should check whether the route is suitable for individual children's ages and hiking experience.

Arriving early leaves time to find the trailhead and meet the group before the scheduled start.

Anyone needing accessibility accommodations or with questions about the route can contact the park in advance.

Make a day of exploring West Tennessee

Visitors interested in returning another time can explore the park's other hiking opportunities, natural habitats, and scenic overlooks.

The observation tower and surrounding trails give the park its own character, quite different from an ordinary neighborhood walk.

However, visitors should not assume every facility is open: infrastructure work has affected Travis McNatt Lake, and the park's current notices should be checked before planning additional activities.

Whether you're an experienced hiker or simply looking for an October outing, a guided walk offers a welcoming way to learn about the forest while enjoying the season.

The most memorable autumn trips are not always the longest.

Sometimes two miles, fresh air, and a view over the treetops are enough to make a weekend feel special.

Event at a glance: Saturday, October 24; 10 a.m.–noon; Turkey Call Trailhead, Big Hill Pond State Park, Pocahontas; approximately two miles; moderate terrain; free registration option available.

Confirm registration and current conditions with Tennessee State Parks before traveling.