Montgomery Bell State Park is located 7 miles east of Dickson in Dickson County. The rolling hills of Dickson County contain a treasure that was considered more precious that gold to the builders of young America. The treasure was iron ore, and it lured men by the hundreds to this area of Middle Tennessee. The site of the first Cumberland Presbyterian Church is located at Montgomery Bell State Park.
The iron industry in Dickson County has been long silent, but the 3,782 acres that make up Montgomery Bell State Resort Park still show the signs of its presence. Near the remains of the Old Laurel Furnace, ore pits, where men once scratched iron ore from the earth, lie quiet and abandoned; the hardwood forest, once heavily cut to clear farmland, and to produce charcoal for the iron furnaces, has slowly healed its wounds. Fox, squirrel, raccoon, opossum, deer and a wide variety of birds and wildflowers have returned to the forest, making Montgomery Bell a place of quiet natural beauty.
With approximately 19 miles of hiking trails Montgomery Bell offers a variety of hiking experiences. From a 0.75 mile walk in the woods to the 11.7 mile-long overnight/backpacking trails, there are trails for hikers of all experience levels. The backcountry trail has 3 overnight shelters dispersed along its length, open year-round. Trail maps may be purchased at the park office from 8:00am to 4:00pm Monday thru Friday or at the Inn and Conference center anytime. The collection of park plants and animals is prohibited by state law. Horses, hunting, firearms, fireworks, and alcoholic beverages are not allowed on park trails. Dogs are allowed only if they are kept on a leash.
Directions: I-40 to Exit 182 (Fairview/Dickson Hwy 96 Exit). Turn left (West) onto Highway 96. Stay on Hwy 96 until it deadends at Highway 70. Turn right (East) on Hwy 70, off-ramp provided. Stay on Hwy 70 approximately 3 miles. Park entrance is on the right. For specific directions, see http://www.mapquest.com
The park’s trails include: