Cedars of Lebanon State Forest Natural Area sprawls across 2,690 acres in Wilson County, Tennessee, protecting one of the largest remaining red cedar forests in the country. The landscape here is unlike anything else in Middle Tennessee — thin soils over limestone bedrock create a unique cedar glade ecosystem where wildflowers bloom between exposed rock outcroppings, and rare plant species thrive in conditions found almost nowhere else on Earth.

The forest offers a network of trails winding through dense cedar groves and open glades, making it a rewarding destination for hiking, trail running, and nature photography. Birdwatchers will find plenty to appreciate, as the cedar habitat attracts species uncommon in surrounding areas. The limestone sinkholes and underground drainage patterns add geological interest for curious visitors willing to explore off the beaten path.

Spring is the standout season here, when cedar glade wildflowers — including several Tennessee endemics — put on a striking display from late March through May. Fall brings comfortable temperatures and quieter trails, while winter reveals the stark beauty of the cedar canopy against gray limestone.

Visitors should come prepared for rocky, uneven terrain and bring sturdy footwear. The thin soils and exposed bedrock mean trails can be slippery after rain. Water and sun protection are essentials, as the open glades offer little shade during warmer months.

Cedars of Lebanon rewards those who slow down and look closely. What appears at first as a simple cedar woodland reveals itself as one of Tennessee’s most ecologically distinctive landscapes.

Explore Nearby

• Cordell Hull Highway — Scenic Byway in Kentucky
• Natchez Trace Parkway — Scenic Byway in Alabama
• Port Royal Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in Tennessee
• David Crockette State Park Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in Tennessee
• Obed Wild and Scenic River — Dark Sky Site in Tennessee