The 1,247 acre area is located on the east banks of the Tennessee River in the state’s picturesque Western valley. Tradition has it that Mousetail Landing received its name during the Civil War period when one of the area’s tanning companies caught fire. The exodus of mice fleeing the burning tannery was so profuse that the area in proximity of the park became known as Mousetail Landing. The scenic Buffalo River flows nearby, providing opportunity for family canoe float trips.
The park has 1 day-use, 3 mile trail. There is 1 overnight, 8 mile trail with 2 screened in shelters. These backcountry shelters have bunkbeds, and each shelter sleeps 8 people. Shelter #2 is on a large limestone bluff overlooking the Tennessee River and Busseltown Wildlife Management Area. Shelter #1 is located in a scenic hardwood forest.
Directions: Take I-40 to Exit 143. Take a left on Hwy 13 South 9 miles to Lobelville. At the National Guard Armony, turn right on Hwy 438 and follow to Park Entrance (approximate 17 miles on Hwy 438). For specific directions, see http://www.mapquest.com
The overnight trail:
ML Overnight Trail
| 8.0 miles Roundtrip | Moderate |