The Twin Arches
Discover the largest sandstone arch complex in the eastern United States, hidden deep within the gorge of the Big South Fork.
Nature’s
Masterpiece
Located just west of Jamestown, Tennessee, the Twin Arches are a geological wonder. Sculpted over millions of years by wind and water, these two massive sandstone bridges stand end-to-end, creating an awe-inspiring cathedral of stone in the middle of a lush Appalachian forest. It is arguably the most spectacular natural feature in the entire Big South Fork region.
Hiking to the Arches
The Twin Arches are accessible via two primary routes. Both begin at the Twin Arches Trailhead on the western side of the Big South Fork.
The Short Loop
This is the most direct route to the arches. From the trailhead, the trail descends quickly down a series of steep wooden staircases, dropping you directly on top of the North Arch. You can walk across the arches, then take the stairs down to their massive bases to wander through the rock shelters and stand beneath the 103-foot ceiling of the South Arch.
The Full Loop
For a full day adventure, take the Twin Arches Loop Trail. This route includes the arches, but continues deep into the gorge. You’ll pass Charit Creek Lodge (a backcountry hostel accessible only by foot or horseback), Jake’s Place (an historic farmstead site), and beautiful rock houses before tackling the steep ascent back to the trailhead.
Sculpted by Time
The Twin Arches are formed from Pennsylvanian-aged sandstone. Millions of years ago, this rock was laid down by ancient river deltas. Over time, the softer shale layers beneath the sandstone eroded away, causing the rock to collapse and form massive “rock houses.”
Eventually, the back walls of these rock houses eroded entirely through, leaving behind the spectacular free-standing spans we see today. The rock shelters beneath the arches have provided sanctuary for humans for thousands of years; archaeological evidence shows Native Americans used these shelters for hunting camps as far back as 10,000 years ago.
📍 Plan Your Visit
Getting There
- From Jamestown, take TN-154 N
- Turn right onto Divide Road
- Right onto Twin Arches Road
- 2.2 miles down a gravel road
Need to Know
- Road is gravel but 2WD accessible
- No cell service at the trailhead
- Pit toilets available in parking lot
- No water available at trailhead
The Stairs
- The trail requires descending and climbing steep wooden stairs
- May not be suitable for those with severe mobility issues
- Dogs can struggle on the grated steps
Best Times
- Early morning to beat the crowds
- Fall foliage peaks in late October
- Spring brings wildflowers and wet weather waterfalls
Fentress County Is Where History Lives
Jamestown is the gateway to the Big South Fork. If you’re thinking about calling Fentress County home and having the Twin Arches in your backyard, Tim & Lori Denehy know every road, every ridge, and every neighborhood.
Tim & Lori Denehy · Mitchell Real Estate · Jamestown, TN
Three Reasons to Go Fentress
From the world’s longest yard sale to a world-record lake to America’s most celebrated soldier — everything that makes Fentress County unforgettable.
World’s Longest
Yard Sale
Highway 127 runs right through Jamestown. Hundreds of thousands of treasure hunters.
Explore the Route →Dale Hollow
Lake
Crystal-clear water, 620 miles of undeveloped shoreline, and the world record smallmouth.
Explore the Lake →Sergeant
Alvin C. York
America’s most decorated WWI soldier was born, lived, and is buried 9 miles from Jamestown.
Discover His Story →