3 named trails · 4 miles · 1 trailhead · 1 with the Park Service's own write-up. The lines, trailheads and points are the Park Service's; the write-ups are the Service's own words; the climbing is read from USGS elevation along each line.
2.7 mi one way · about 450 ft of climbing · 355 ft–537 ft · hiking
Hike the Trails at Fort Donelson NB the Park Service's write-up
45-90 Minutes · dogs allowed
Start River Circle Trail
Dependable friend awaits a hike at Fort Donelson NB Photo: NPS/moe
Soak in the natural and cultural history by enjoying the park trails. There are four trails: the Donelson Trail, the River Circle Trail, the Spur Trail to the Cemetery, and the Graves Battery to French's Battery Trail. All trails are dirt, rocks, and tree roots. They vary in length, with moderate to strenuous sections. They can become slippery when muddy, so be careful of your footing. Each trail is appropriate for all ability levels and ages.
Accessibility Trails vary in grade and width. All are dirt paths with roots, water bars, rocks and muddy areas. No trails are wheelchair accessible. Service animals are allowed. All pets must be leashed.
Dogs love national parks! Photo: National Park Service/blakejanda
Pets are welcomed most everywhere in the battlefield, except for the National Cemetery. Please keep your pet leashed at all times.
Accessibility All trails are dirt, they contain rocks, tree roots, and leaf litter. Use caution because trails can become slippery. Pets must be leashed at all times. Rangers recommend using insect repellent and bringing plenty of water for you and your four-legged friends.
The lines are the National Park Service's public trails layer, the trailheads and the waterfalls, views, peaks and historic places along them the Service's public points of interest, read 2026-10-14 and simplified for the map. The write-ups are the Service's own "things to do", unedited. Heights come from USGS 3DEP through Terrain Tiles on AWS (Mapzen/Tilezen), read along each line and rounded; a short trail on steep ground can be off by a few tens of feet. Closures change: check the park's own site before you go.
