Martha Sundquist State Forest

Martha Sundquist State Forest is a state forest in Cocke County covering just over 2,000 acres of mature hardwood forest on hillsides and in coves. The surrounding landscape is dominated by the Cherokee National Forest, which borders it on three sides.

The Tennessee Division of Forestry took over this forest in 2001 from the International Paper Company, which had operated it under the name Champion International Corporation. This change marked the shift from private timber management to state ownership.

The Tennessee Gulf Trail extends 3.3 miles through the forest, connecting its northwestern and southeastern corners along Brown Gap Creek.

Access is via Gulf Road, where parking areas are located near the start of trails used for hiking, hunting, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The trails are open to multiple activities, and visitors should come prepared for changing mountain weather.

This is Tennessee's only state forest within the Blue Ridge province and contains eastern hemlock, magnolia, maple, birch, and white pine trees. The combination of these species in a state-managed forest makes the location botanically notable.

Location: Tennessee

Inception: 2001

Website: https://tn.gov/agriculture/forests/state-forests/martha-sundquist.html

GPS coordinates: 35.80000,-83.02000

Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:50