John Tursi Trail
A picturesque trail with historical charm, featuring an old mine, a cabin, and scenic views of Lake Campbell and Mount Erie.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Water in the mine, fewer crowds
John Tursi Trail
Best Time
Water in the mine, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque trail with historical charm, featuring an old mine, a cabin, and scenic views of Lake Campbell and Mount Erie.
"The walk back is worth it, very picturesque, a very pretty picture of Mount Erie makes it worth the walk. "
🚶 Parking & Walk-in
Park on Lake Campbell Rd; a short walk to the trailhead is part of the experience.
⛰️ Steep Start
Be ready for a steep initial climb to get onto the main trail.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Old Mine
Early on the trail
Explore a cool, water-filled mine shaft, a unique historical find along the path.
Historic Cabin
Mid-trail
Discover a well-preserved cabin, offering a glimpse into the past and a picturesque stop.
Lake Campbell Views
Various points along the trail
Enjoy peekaboo views of Lake Campbell and a scenic vista of Mount Erie.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trailhead Access & Parking
Trail Terrain & Highlights
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶 Parking & Walk-in
Park on Lake Campbell Rd; a short walk to the trailhead is part of the experience.
⛰️ Steep Start
Be ready for a steep initial climb to get onto the main trail.
💧 Mine Water Levels
Water levels in the mine vary seasonally; check conditions if this is a priority.
📸 Photo Ops
Plenty of picturesque spots for photos, especially of the lake and Mount Erie.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶 Parking & Walk-in
Park on Lake Campbell Rd; a short walk to the trailhead is part of the experience.
⛰️ Steep Start
Be ready for a steep initial climb to get onto the main trail.
💧 Mine Water Levels
Water levels in the mine vary seasonally; check conditions if this is a priority.
📸 Photo Ops
Plenty of picturesque spots for photos, especially of the lake and Mount Erie.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the John Tursi Trail for its beauty and historical intrigue, highlighting the gorgeous scenery and unique points of interest like the old mine and cabin. Some note the initial steep climb and the walk from parking to the trailhead as minor inconveniences, but overall find the picturesque views and historical elements well worth the effort.
"Nice trail, very clear & clean!! Gorgeous"
Kathryn H.
"Very cool Trail. Only con is you have to park on Lake Campbell Road and then walk down Donnell road to the end where the trail starts, but the walk back is worth it, see last pic. I think it's like a quarter to half a mile.
Then once you get to the trail it's a steep slope up. Like maybe a quarter to half a mile also. Then it's up and down, up and down. The first two things you get to is the mine which is kind of cool. (see my video) This time of year there's water in there. I walked in there about maybe 30 ft and then it ended but I couldn't tell if you can go up. There was too much water in the back. Then I continued and got to the cabin which is pretty cool. I kept going up and down took a nice picture of the view at a good viewing point. Lots of peekaboo views of Lake Campbell.
But I didn't do the whole Trail, on the way back I noticed before I got to the cabin there was something down there a little off the trail, e.g. 20 feet. I went there and it was a old very beat up cabin or tool shed, you can see in the pictures. The tin roof was on the ground in front of it which is what caught my sight from Higher Ground. I found that nail on the ground and took a picture to show a good example of the big nails that John used to connect the logs. The last picture is me walking back, very picturesque, a very pretty picture of Mount Erie makes it worth the walk."
Angelo Tsou
"I want to stay here"
Armanda Kwiatkoski
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The John Tursi Trail is located near Lake Campbell. Access requires parking on Lake Campbell Road and walking down Donnell Road to the trailhead.
You'll need to park on Lake Campbell Road and then walk approximately a quarter to half a mile down Donnell Road to reach the start of the trail.
Yes, parking is available on Lake Campbell Road. Be aware that it's not directly at the trailhead.
The walk to the trailhead from the parking area is about a quarter to half a mile down Donnell Road.
Public transport options are limited for this trail. Driving and parking on Lake Campbell Road is the most common method.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the John Tursi Trail is generally free to access. There are no ticket requirements for entry.
The trail is typically open from dawn to dusk, as it's an outdoor natural area. It's best to visit during daylight hours.
There is no entrance fee for the John Tursi Trail. It's a public access trail.
Yes, the trail is accessible year-round, but conditions may vary with weather. Spring and fall are often ideal.
No reservations are needed for the John Tursi Trail, as it's a public hiking path.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The trail starts with a steep incline and then features an up-and-down path with varied terrain.
Key attractions include an old mine shaft (sometimes with water), a historic cabin, and scenic views of Lake Campbell and Mount Erie.
Yes, it's a popular hiking trail. Be prepared for the initial steep climb and the rolling terrain.
The time to complete the trail can vary depending on your pace and how long you spend at the points of interest. Allow at least 1-2 hours.
Restroom facilities are not typically available directly at the trailhead or along the trail. Plan accordingly.
📸 📸 Photography
Great photo spots include the old mine, the historic cabin, peekaboo views of Lake Campbell, and the scenic vista of Mount Erie.
Morning or late afternoon light can be ideal for capturing the scenic views and historical elements.
You can take pictures of the mine entrance and the accessible parts. Be cautious of water and slippery conditions inside.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local park or land management rules before flying a drone.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended to capture both close-ups of historical details and wider landscape views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Hikers Seeking Unique Trails
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Historical Elements
These historical sites are what make the John Tursi Trail more than just a hike; they offer a narrative and a sense of discovery. The presence of these remnants encourages visitors to imagine the lives of those who once worked or lived in this area.
Scenic Vistas and Nature
The rolling terrain of the trail itself contributes to the picturesque experience, with its ups and downs creating a dynamic hiking path.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit