Coke Ovens and Museum
Dunlap Coke Ovens Park includes the remains of 268 beehive-shaped coke ovens—a striking chapter in Dunlap’s industrial history. In the early 20th century, the ovens were used to convert coal into industrial coke, which was used to smelt iron ore.
The Dunlap Coke Ovens Museum adds to this perspective with photographs and artifacts. It houses Tennessee’s largest collection of regional historical photographs on coal mining; hundreds of donated mining artifacts are also on display. A dedicated local history room showcases historical items associated with the early settlers of Sequatchie County and Dunlap. The museum was created by reconstructing the former “The Commissary” building at its original site. In this way, the museum brings together evidence of mining and early local history, while the remains of the ovens illustrate the coke-making process.
Festival and When to Visit
BTC Fiber Valley Fest takes place every year on the first weekend of May at Coops Creek Commons. Dates and schedules may change, so check the specific festival dates if you’re planning your trip around the event. Coops Creek Commons is a site covering more than 17 acres in the center of Dunlap.
Trails, Views, and Water
The hike at Dunlap Coke Ovens includes a 3,900-foot climb to Fredonia Mountain. It offers views of the valley and the chance to explore sites of former coal mining. Hiking in this area is not recommended in summer; take this restriction into account when choosing your dates. Another view can be enjoyed from the hang-gliding ramp at Henson Gap, overlooking Sequatchie Valley.
Coops Creek Greenway runs from Harris Park in downtown Dunlap to Sequatchie County Schools. The greenway is a local trail option for travelers who want to explore Dunlap on foot. For regional travel, Dunlap is near Highway 111, which connects Chattanooga with Tennessee’s South Cumberland Plateau.
The Sequatchie River Blueway is used for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. Public access points in Dunlap are at 751 Old York Hwy. and 1450 Hudlow Rd. This gives you a choice of activities: a walking route, a hike with a climb and views, or paddling on the blueway.
When planning your trip, it’s worth considering these two conditions separately: the festival is scheduled for the first weekend of May each year, but specific dates may change; hiking in this area is not recommended in summer. Check the festival dates and take the summer recommendation into account if hiking is part of your plans.
For a broader travel overview: Sequatchie County.
