fun things to do — Seven Springs

Seven springs Welcome guide at center hill lake

Here are some fun things to do in Smithville, Tennessee, and around Center Hill Lake:

Boating and Water Sports:

Pates Ford Marina on Center Hill Lake is a short 10 minute drive from the cabins, offers a range of services and amenities for visitors. Here are some of the offerings you can expect:
Boat Rentals: Pates Ford Marina provides various options for renting boats, including pontoon boats, ski boats, and fishing boats. Renting a boat allows you to explore the lake and enjoy water activities at your leisure.
Covered Boat Slips: If you own a boat, Pates Ford Marina offers covered boat slips for long-term or seasonal rentals. These slips provide protection for your boat from the elements and allow for easy access to the lake.
Boat Storage: The marina provides boat storage facilities for those who prefer to keep their boats securely stored when not in use. This option is convenient for boat owners who may not have their own storage space.
Fuel Station: Pates Ford Marina features a fuel station where you can refuel your boat or other watercraft. This is convenient for longer trips or if you need to top up your fuel during your time on the lake.
Ship Store: The marina has a ship store where you can find essential boating supplies, snacks, beverages, ice, and other convenience items. It's a convenient stop for any necessities you may need for your time on the water.
Lakeside Restaurant: Pates Ford Marina is home to a lakeside restaurant that offers scenic views and a menu of delicious food and refreshing drinks. It's a great spot to relax, enjoy a meal, and soak in the beautiful surroundings.
Fishing: Center Hill Lake is known for its fishing opportunities, and Pates Ford Marina provides access to excellent fishing spots. Whether you're an avid angler or just want to try your hand at fishing, the marina is a great starting point.

Hiking and Nature Trails:

Burgess Falls State Park is a scenic 40 minute drive, but if you’re hunting for waterfalls, it may be worth it! Witness breathtaking waterfalls, including the 130-foot Burgess Falls.
Easy Hikes:
Hurricane Bridge Recreation Area Trail: This trail is located on the eastern side of Center Hill Lake and offers a relatively easy 2.6-mile loop. The trail takes you through a wooded area and leads to the Hurricane Bridge, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding countryside.
Edgar Evins State Park Trails: Edgar Evins State Park, located on the shores of Center Hill Lake, offers several easy hiking trails suitable for all ages and skill levels. The Highland Rim Nature Trail and the Millennium Trail are both short and provide a chance to explore the park's diverse flora and fauna.
Burgess Falls State Park: Although not directly adjacent to Center Hill Lake, Burgess Falls State Park is a short drive away and offers beautiful waterfall hikes. The main trail to the falls is approximately 1.5 miles round trip and provides views of multiple waterfalls along the way, including the impressive 130-foot Burgess Falls.
Rock Island State Park: Another nearby park worth visiting is Rock Island State Park. The Blue Hole Trail is an easy 0.3-mile walk that leads to a scenic swimming hole with crystal-clear waters. Additionally, the Great Falls Loop Trail is a flat, paved path that offers views of cascading waterfalls and the Caney Fork River.
Window Cliffs State Natural Area: Located east of Center Hill Lake, Window Cliffs State Natural Area features a moderate 4.4-mile trail. While it's slightly longer, the trail itself is relatively easy, with well-maintained paths and beautiful rock formations along the way, including the unique "window" formations.
Moderate Hikes:
Virgin Falls State Natural Area: Located northeast of Center Hill Lake, Virgin Falls State Natural Area offers a moderate 8-mile trail that leads to the stunning Virgin Falls. This hike takes you through diverse landscapes, including forests, creeks, and rock formations, and culminates in the breathtaking sight of a 110-foot waterfall.
Burgess Falls State Park: While the main trail to the falls at Burgess Falls State Park is an easy hike, the park also offers a moderate 1.5-mile Ridge Top Trail. This trail takes you through the park's wooded areas and provides scenic views of Center Hill Lake and the surrounding countryside.
Rock Island State Park: Rock Island State Park offers several moderate hiking trails that showcase the park's natural beauty. The Blue Hole Trail is a 1.5-mile loop that takes you through the park's unique geological features and offers views of the Caney Fork River. The Twin Falls Loop Trail is another moderate option, providing scenic views of Twin Falls and the Caney Fork River Gorge.
Window Cliffs State Natural Area: While the Window Cliffs hike also has a moderate section, it can be included here as it offers both moderate and more challenging portions. The 5.4-mile trail takes you through scenic woodlands, along creeks, and ultimately leads to the impressive Window Cliffs rock formations.
Harder Hikes:
Fiery Gizzard Trail: Located north of Center Hill Lake near Tracy City, the Fiery Gizzard Trail is a challenging 12.5-mile trail that takes you through rocky gorges, along waterfalls, and offers breathtaking views. It's known for its ruggedness and requires good physical fitness and proper hiking gear.
Savage Gulf State Natural Area: Located northeast of Center Hill Lake, Savage Gulf State Natural Area offers several challenging trails that traverse deep gorges and offer stunning overlooks. The Stone Door Trail is a popular choice, featuring a 3-mile loop that descends into the gorge and rewards hikers with panoramic views.
Virgin Falls State Natural Area: While previously mentioned as a moderate hike, the full trek to Virgin Falls is considered a more difficult endeavor. The trail covers around 9 miles of varied terrain, including steep ascents and descents. It's important to be prepared with sturdy footwear, plenty of water, and appropriate hiking gear.
Fall Creek Falls State Park: Although Fall Creek Falls State Park is not directly adjacent to Center Hill Lake, it offers challenging hikes that are worth considering. The park features multiple trails of varying difficulty, including the Alum Cave Trail, which is a strenuous 4.8-mile loop that takes you to the base of Fall Creek Falls.
Waterfalls:
Burgess Falls: Located in Burgess Falls State Park, this series of cascading waterfalls is a popular attraction. The main waterfall plunges 130 feet into the gorge below, and there are additional smaller falls along the river. It's approximately a 30-minute drive from Center Hill Lake.
Cummins Falls: Situated in Cummins Falls State Park, this waterfall is known for its picturesque beauty. It requires a moderately difficult hike to reach the falls, but the reward is worth it. The waterfall drops about 75 feet into a scenic swimming hole. It's approximately a 45-minute drive from Center Hill Lake.
Fall Creek Falls: Although not directly adjacent to Center Hill Lake, Fall Creek Falls is the tallest waterfall in the eastern United States and worth a visit. It's located in Fall Creek Falls State Park, about a 1.5-hour drive from Center Hill Lake. The waterfall drops an impressive 256 feet and offers stunning views.
Rock Island State Park: Rock Island State Park is home to multiple waterfalls along the Caney Fork River. Twin Falls, which consists of two side-by-side waterfalls, is a popular attraction. There are also other smaller cascades and rapids throughout the park. It's approximately a 30-minute drive from Center Hill Lake.
Golfing:
Smithville Golf Club, is an 18-hole course that provides a picturesque backdrop for a relaxing day of golf.
Dining:
Be sure to check out downtown Smithville for local places to eat and grab a drink.
Farmhouse Finds (Smithville, TN) - Located less than 5 minutes from Seven Springs, Farmhouse Finds offers Boars Head deli sandwiches, Blue Bell ice cream and more!
Foglight Foodhouse (Rock Island, TN) - Located approximately 20 minutes southwest of Smithville, Foglight Foodhouse is known for its eclectic menu featuring dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. They offer a range of options, including seafood, burgers, vegetarian dishes, and craft beers.
The Blue Porch (Woodbury, TN) - Situated about 25 minutes northwest of Smithville, The Blue Porch is a charming restaurant housed in a historic home. They serve Southern-inspired cuisine made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, including soups, salads, sandwiches, and daily specials.
Calfkiller Brewing Company (Sparta, TN) - About a 30-minute drive southwest of Smithville, Calfkiller Brewing Company not only offers craft beer but also has a food truck on-site. You can enjoy their unique brews along with tasty food options that complement the beer selection.
City Cafe (Murfreesboro, TN) - Located approximately 30 minutes northeast of Smithville in Murfreesboro, City Cafe is a classic diner serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They offer a range of comfort food favorites such as burgers, sandwiches, salads, and hearty breakfast dishes.
The Blue Pig (Lancaster, TN) - Situated about 25 minutes east of Smithville, The Blue Pig is a popular BBQ joint offering smoked meats, sandwiches, and classic Southern sides. They're known for their flavorful pulled pork, ribs, and homemade sauces.
The Bull & Thistle Pub (Gainesboro, TN) - About a 30-minute drive northwest of Smithville, The Bull & Thistle Pub is a cozy spot serving British and Irish fare. They offer traditional dishes like fish and chips, shepherd's pie, bangers and mash, along with a selection of beers and spirits.

Coffee:

Button Willow General Store and Coffee Shop (Smithville, TN)
Smithville Donuts (Smithville, TN)
Breweries & Beer Gardens:
Burlap Room (Smithville, TN) - Located approximately 10 minutes from Seven Springs. Live music, local artists, Tio’s Taco Truck (& other local cuisines), fire pits, a sandbox and children’s play area, Hemp Brothers’ locally-grown CBD products, a Tesla charging station, and the largest beer garden in Tennessee are just a few things you can find around here.
Calfkiller Brewing Company (Sparta, TN) - Located approximately 17 miles southwest of Smithville, Calfkiller Brewing Company offers a range of craft beers with unique flavors and styles. They often have a rotating selection of brews to try.
Jig Head Brewing Company (Cookeville, TN) - Situated about 20 miles north of Smithville in Cookeville, Jig Head Brewing Company is known for its small-batch, handcrafted beers. They offer a variety of styles, including IPAs, stouts, and seasonal brews.
Red Silo Brewing Company (Cookeville, TN) - Also located in Cookeville, Red Silo Brewing Company is a community-focused brewery offering an array of craft beers. They have a cozy taproom where you can enjoy their brews and often host events and live music.
Hix Farm Brewery (Bloomington Springs, TN) - Approximately 25 miles southwest of Smithville, Hix Farm Brewery is a family-owned and operated farm brewery. They specialize in Belgian-style ales and farmhouse beers, utilizing ingredients from their own farm.
Distilleries:
Short Mountain Distillery (Woodbury, TN) - Located approximately 18 miles northwest of Smithville, Short Mountain Distillery is a family-owned craft distillery known for its small-batch, organic spirits. They produce a range of products, including moonshine, bourbon, and Tennessee whiskey.
Prichard's Distillery (Kelso, TN) - Situated about 28 miles south of Smithville, Prichard's Distillery is known for its handcrafted spirits made using traditional methods. They produce a variety of spirits, including rum, whiskey, and vodka.
Corsair Artisan Distillery (Nashville, TN) - Located approximately 55 miles west of Smithville in Nashville, Corsair Artisan Distillery is a renowned craft distillery with a wide range of unique spirits. They offer innovative flavors and experimental releases, including gin, whiskey, and specialty spirits.
Unique Experiences:
Canopy Tours: Experience the thrill of ziplining and traversing through the treetops with canopy tours. Several adventure companies in the area, such as Canopy Challenge Course at Fall Creek Falls State Park and Adventureworks Zipline Canopy Tour in Kingston Springs, offer exhilarating zipline adventures and aerial obstacle courses.
Waterfall Rappelling: For the adventurous souls, consider joining a guided waterfall rappelling tour. Explore the stunning waterfalls of the region and descend down the rock faces with the assistance of experienced guides. Companies like Southeastern Expeditions and High Adventure Expeditions offer waterfall rappelling trips in nearby locations.
Horseback Riding: Enjoy the beauty of the landscape around Center Hill Lake on horseback. Take a guided horseback riding tour through scenic trails, forests, and open fields. Companies like Circle E Guest Ranch in Belvidere and Shaconage Trail Rides in Jamestown offer horseback riding experiences for riders of all levels.
Wine Tasting: Explore the local wineries and vineyards near Center Hill Lake. Sample a variety of wines, learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy the scenic surroundings. Wineries such as DelMonaco Winery & Vineyards in Baxter and Chestnut Hill Winery in Crossville offer wine tastings and tours.
Scenic Drives: Take a leisurely drive along the scenic roads near Center Hill Lake and enjoy the picturesque views. The Natchez Trace Parkway and the Great River Road are two popular routes that showcase the beauty of the region.
Cultural and Historical Sites: Discover the rich history and culture of the area by visiting local museums, historic sites, and landmarks. Explore the Appalachian Center for Craft in Smithville, the Cookeville History Museum, or the historic town of Granville, known for its preserved 19th-century buildings.
Self-Care:
Massage Therapists and Spas:
Center Hill Lake Massage: Center Hill Lake Massage is a local massage therapy service that offers a range of therapeutic massage treatments. They provide in-home or on-location services, bringing the massage experience directly to you.
Living Well Spa: Located in Cookeville, Tennessee, approximately a 30-minute drive from Center Hill Lake, Living Well Spa offers a variety of massage therapies, including Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone, and aromatherapy massages. They also provide other spa services like facials, body wraps, and more.
Pure Life Massage & Wellness: Pure Life Massage & Wellness is a wellness center in Cookeville that provides a range of massage therapies, including Swedish, deep tissue, prenatal, and couples massages. They also offer additional services like reflexology and body treatments.
The Wellness Center at Cumberland University: The Wellness Center, situated in Lebanon, Tennessee, offers various wellness services, including therapeutic massage. They have licensed massage therapists who specialize in different modalities and can provide tailored treatments to suit your needs.
Reiki Practitioners:
Center Hill Lake Reiki: Center Hill Lake Reiki is a local reiki practice that offers energy healing sessions. They provide in-person sessions where you can experience the gentle touch and energy work of reiki.
Pure Life Massage & Wellness: Pure Life Massage & Wellness, located in Cookeville, Tennessee, offers not only massage therapies but also reiki sessions. They have skilled practitioners who can provide reiki treatments to help restore balance and promote well-being.
The Wellness Center at Cumberland University: The Wellness Center in Lebanon, Tennessee, also offers reiki sessions as part of their holistic wellness services. Their reiki practitioners aim to facilitate relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance healing through the gentle flow of energy.
When seeking a reiki practitioner, it's advisable to reach out to them directly to inquire about their availability, pricing, and to schedule an appointment. They can provide more information about their specific approach to reiki and answer any questions you may have.
Local Calendar of Events:
Smithville Fiddlers' Jamboree and Crafts Festival: If you happen to visit during the 4th of July weekend, don't miss the Smithville Fiddlers' Jamboree and Crafts Festival. Enjoy live music, traditional Appalachian crafts, and thrilling competitions.
WakeFest: If you happen to visit during the month of July, don’t miss WakeFest held at Pates Ford Marina just 10 minutes from Seven Springs. WakeFest is a community outreach event designed to promote the sport of wakeboarding.