Welch's Point

This location was recently opened back to the public by Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and the Tennessee Department of Conservation and Environment in the fall of 2014 after being closed for over a decade! It is one of the most spectacular spots to watch the sunset in east Tennessee.

This overlook is down the road beside Virgin Falls, where there is an abundance of waterfalls and hiking trails that can be read here. 

To get to Welch's Point, you can put in the gps "Welch's Point Road." It is a dead end street that ends at the grassy/gravel area parking at the gate. The gps will likely give you directions similar to this: from the Gulf Trading Post, turn south onto Scott’s Gulf Road. Follow the gravel road and fork to the right onto the road called "Welch's Point Road" immediately past the parking lot for Virgin Falls Wilderness Area. 

After you have parked by the gate, then follow the foot trail behind the gate (about 400 ft) to the overlook. You will be peering into Scott’s Gulf, the headwaters of the Caney Fork River.

After hiking the Virgin Falls trail (solid 10 miles round trip), I needed a quiet place to rest a bit and watch the sunset. I brought my hammock out there hoping there was a bit of trees I could hang it by the overlook. I was not disappointed. There are multiple trees on the rock with a great open view of the overlook. 

Bring a book, bug spray (they are bad up there), some snacks, and enjoy a nice sunset!

The park closes at sundown. Welch’s Point may be closed for ice, snow or inclement weather.