Discover Dunlap

Dunlap offers several distinct themes for your stay: the history of coal mining, walking trails, river activities, and valley views. The Coke Ovens and museum represent industrial heritage; the Greenway, Sequatchie River Blueway, and hang-gliding ramp on Henson Gap offer different experiences. To plan your trip, you can first consider whether you’d like to learn more about historic mining, include an event, or set aside time for trails and activities on the water.

Coke Ovens and Museum

Dunlap Coke Ovens Park contains the remains of 268 beehive-shaped coke ovens. They were used in the early 20th century to convert coal into industrial coke, which was used to smelt iron ore. The ovens illustrate a stage in processing between coal mining and the use of the resulting coke in ironmaking.

The Dunlap Coke Ovens Museum complements this theme with a variety of collections. It houses Tennessee’s largest collection of regional historical photographs about coal mining; hundreds of donated mining artifacts are also on display. A local history room features historical objects associated with Sequatchie County’s and Dunlap’s early settlers. The building itself has a history, too: the museum was created by reconstructing the former “The Commissary” building, which was rebuilt at its original location.

Hiking, Greenway, and Valley Views

The hike at Dunlap Coke Ovens includes a 3,900-foot climb to Fredonia Mountain. Along the way, there are views of the valley and opportunities to explore former coal mining sites. Hiking in this area is not recommended in summer; take this seasonal guidance into account if you include the hike in your plans.

Coops Creek Greenway runs from Harris Park in downtown Dunlap to Sequatchie County Schools. This trail connection between two named locations offers an alternative to a climb with valley views and former mining sites. When weighing the two options, consider whether you’re interested in a route with these endpoints or the hike to Fredonia Mountain.

The hang-gliding ramp on Henson Gap offers a view over the Sequatchie Valley. The Sequatchie River Blueway is used for kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards. Public access points in Dunlap are at 751 Old York Hwy. and 1450 Hudlow Rd. This lets you consider the valley view and use of the Blueway as different focuses for planning your trip.

Family Activities and Event Date

The Harris Park Splash Pad in Dunlap is designed for children and families, with water jets, fountains, and interactive features. Details about seasonal operations may change; check the latest information before planning a visit to the Splash Pad.

BTC Fiber Valley Fest is a music festival held every year on the first weekend in May at Coops Creek Commons. The over-17-acre venue is in the center of Dunlap. Since specific festival dates and the program may change, check them before traveling for the event. This will help you plan your stay around the actual festival dates.

For a broader travel overview: Sequatchie County.