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Buggytop (formerly Lost Cove West) Trailhead

Buggytop (formerly Lost Cove West)

Hikes

Buggytop Cave and Peter Cave

Caving, Day Hikes

A moderately difficult 4 mile roundtrip hike to one of the largest cave openings in Tennessee. Watch your footing as you descend into Lost Cove and enjoy the cool air at the opening of the cave before heading back up. Bring lots of water and be sure you have sturdy footwear! The interior of Lost Cove Cave is closed from September through May to protect rare and endangered species of salamanders and bats.

Caving, Day Hikes

Buggytop Cave and Peter Cave

Moderately Difficult

A moderately difficult 4 mile roundtrip hike to one of the largest cave openings in Tennessee. Watch your footing as you descend into Lost Cove and enjoy the cool air at the opening of the cave before heading back up. Bring lots of water and be sure you have sturdy footwear! The interior of Lost Cove Cave is closed from September through May to protect rare and endangered species of salamanders and bats.

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Important Info

Caving

IMPORTANT: Caves are only open from June through August and require advance online registration. Never enter a cave without proper clothing, headlamps and protective gear. Caving is a dangerous activity and should not be attempted by novices.

Day Hikes

Be prepared for your hike! Know when the sun will set, and make sure you bring along these essentials...

Buggytop (formerly Lost Cove West)

Maps & Trail Guides

Lost Cove SimpleMap
Lost Cove SimpleMap
Lost Cove Topographic Map
Lost Cove Topographic Map
Lost Cove West - Buggytop Cave Trail Guide
Lost Cove West - Buggytop Cave Trail Guide

Visit our Nearby Business Members

Shenanigans
Shenanigans
More to do in Sewanee
More to do in Sewanee

Getting There

Take US 41 through Sewanee, then left on TN Hwy 56 at the large brown park sign. Follow Hwy 56 about 6.5 miles. Unfortunately, the trailhead is not well marked; as you descend the mountain on Sherwood Road, watch for a small brown "Bird Watching Area" sign on your right; the roadside parking area and trailhead are just ahead on your left.

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