We've now completed the 3-mile loop! This trail would be a good area to look for wildflowers in the spring. Even in November I saw leaves of some remaining wildflowers.

The ladybugs were a bit annoying when they flew in our ears, climbed down our shirts and even nipped us with their mandibles!

M. Troutt carved his name in the boulder on the western end of the mountain on March 18 in the early 1900's. This early graffiti proves that people have enjoyed the views from this mountain for a long time! There were many smashed ladybugs on the rock where people had stepped or sat on them. :(

House Mountain State Natural Area

is located in east Knox County on Hwy. 11 W (Rutledge Pike). Look for the brown sign indicating the turnoff to Idumea Road. Turn left on Hogskin Road and look for the parking area on the right. On a busy day, you may have to park along the road. House Mountain has an elevation of 2,100 ft. The hike is a bit steep, but the views from the top are worth the effort! See the link to the information and a map on the "Related Links" on the Home Page.

Look for the Turkey trailhead sign when hiking back down the mountain. There are nice views of the Smokies from this trail when the leaves are off the trees.

My husband took a moment to check out the fabulous views from the eastern overlook. From this point a hiker can see the Cumberland Mountains over 50 miles away. From the opposite side of the mountain the Smoky Mountains can be seen on a clear day. A nice cool day in the fall is a great time to see the distant views.

The trail up and across the top of the mountain is a 3-mile loop. We like to go to the left here and hike up to the first overlook on the end of the mountain.

There were hundreds of ladybugs flying around the warm rocks on top of the mountain on the early November day that we hiked there. They will probably overwinter in the openings between the huge boulders.

This view is from the eastern overlook. A hiker can see many beautiful farms in the community of Corryton.

The trails on House Mountain are well-maintained.

Another ladybug on another boulder. Note the different lichens.

These hikers are enjoying a late afternoon view from the eastern overlook on House Mountain. The cliffsides are not protected by rails, this would not be a good place for small children or hyperactive dogs!

The trail at the top of the mountain passes lots of large boulders.