Fort Henry is not a trail to plan from an old loop description. Its southern-LBL network follows historic routes through ridges and creek bottoms, but tornado damage still affects access. Read the closure first, then decide whether a particular open segment suits your day.
Network: approximately 27 miles across nine connected trails, per the Forest Service directory
Use: hiking and biking on open routes
Mapped access: South Welcome Station, FS Road 232, Boswell Landing and Piney Campground
Critical: current closures override older route descriptions
Check the closure before choosing a trailhead
The Forest Service alert currently lists Fort Henry Trail from Points 1–23 and Pickett Loop as closed because of tornado damage. Its trail directory also describes closed connectors. Those notices mean you should not use a published loop mileage or a map line as proof that the route is passable. Confirm the exact segment with the official alerts or staff at 270-924-2000 before driving to a remote access point.
How to read the system map
The PDF names Telegraph, Artillery, Peytona, Devil’s Backbone, Tennessee Ridge, Piney, Volunteer and Pickett routes, with numbered junctions and color markings. It also shows connections toward the North/South Trail. Choose a start and turnaround only after checking which segments are currently open; do not improvise around a barricade.
On open sections, expect a mix of footpaths, old roads and forest terrain. No potable water is available on the trail and springs are unreliable. The Forest Service lists water at South Welcome Station and Piney Campground. If your plan depends on an uninterrupted loop today, consider Hillman Heritage or another verified open route instead.
Download the official Fort Henry map (PDF) · Read the live trail closure · Browse all LBL maps