Buggytop Trail to Lost Cove Cave

Spring through fall is the ideal window for tackling this trail. In the spring, the wildflowers in the cove are spectacular, and the creek is usually flowing at full volume. Summer offers a lush, green canopy that provides much-needed shade, though the humidity in the hollows can be intense.

Fall is perhaps the most popular time for locals. The hardwood forests of the Cumberland Plateau turn vibrant shades of ochre, rust, and gold. Generally, peak color in this part of Tennessee hits in late October. Winter hiking offers great visibility of the rock formations, but the trail can become dangerous if ice forms on the steep, rocky sections.

Parking at the Buggytop Trailhead is limited. On pleasant weekends, the small gravel lot can fill up by mid-morning, so arriving early is your best bet for a stress-free start. Because this is a state natural area, facilities are non-existent; make sure to use a restroom before you arrive in the woods.

Proper footwear is non-negotiable here. Leave the flip-flops at the car; you need boots with good ankle support and aggressive tread. Bring plenty of water and a headlamp, even if you don't plan on going deep into the cave. It is important to note that cave access may be restricted seasonally to protect local bat populations from White-Nose Syndrome. Always check the official Tennessee State Parks or State Natural Areas website for current closure notices before you step into the cavern.

Plan to spend at least 3 to 4 hours on the trail to allow for a slow ascent and plenty of time to explore the cave entrance. A perfect day might look like this:

9:00 AM: Arrive at the trailhead and begin your descent. Take your time navigating the rockier switchbacks.

10:30 AM: Reach the mouth of Lost Cove Cave. Find a flat rock to sit on, enjoy a snack, and feel the cool cave air.

11:30 AM: Begin the climb back up. This is the hardest part of the day, so pace yourself.

1:00 PM: Return to your vehicle and head into the town of Sewanee for a well-earned lunch at a local cafe.

While Sewanee feels like a secluded mountain escape, it is positioned within driving distance of some of the most iconic landmarks in the Blue Ridge and Appalachian regions. If you are making a week of your trip, you can head east toward Asheville to visit the historic Biltmore Estate or explore the North Carolina Arboretum.

For those who love scenic overlooks, a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway is essential, with stops at Craggy Gardens or a hike at Mount Mitchell State Park, the highest peak east of the Mississippi. If you prefer culture and food, the River Arts District in Asheville and Downtown Asheville offer world-class dining. For a taste of local agriculture, stop by Hickory Nut Gap Farm for farm-to-table goods.

The trailhead is located on Highway 56, south of Sewanee. The drive itself is a highlight, as the road winds along the edges of the Cumberland Plateau, offering glimpses of deep 'gulfs'—the local term for the dramatic canyons that define this geography.

If you are coming from the north, the drive through the University of the South campus in Sewanee is a must. The Gothic architecture and old-growth trees make it feel like a trip to Oxford, England, hidden in the Tennessee woods.

When choosing a place to stay, we recommend looking for lodging within a 20-to-30-minute drive of the trailhead to maximize your time in nature. The area around Sewanee and Monteagle is famous for its mountain cabins and historic inns that reflect the quiet, academic, and rugged spirit of the Plateau.

To get the best experience, we always suggest booking directly with the host or the property’s official website. Booking direct often ensures you get the best rate, clearer communication with the people who actually manage the home, and more flexible cancellation policies compared to big third-party travel sites. Look for a spot with a porch—there is nothing better than a Tennessee sunset after a day at Buggytop.