Looking for an outdoor adventure that offers stunning natural beauty and plenty of recreational opportunities? Look no further than East Tennessee's parks and nature! From the soaring peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains to the tranquil waters of the state parks, this region has something for everyone. So put on your hiking boots, grab your fishing gear, and get ready to explore the great outdoors in East Tennessee.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a natural paradise that attracts millions of visitors every year. The park is located on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee and covers over 520,000 acres of land. It is home to some of the most scenic hiking trails, wildlife, and natural wonders in the United States.
As one of the most visited national parks in the country, the Great Smoky Mountains are simply breathtaking. With over 800 miles of trails, this park is perfect for hikers of all skill levels. The scenic trails wind through forests, over rolling hills, and through valleys dotted with wildflowers. And don't forget to keep an eye out for wildlife! Deer, elk, and black bears are just a few of the animals you might spot along the way.
The Great Smoky Mountains offer a wide variety of hiking trails for all skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just starting out, you'll find a trail that suits your needs. For a challenging hike, try the 8.2-mile Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trail is steep and rocky, but the views from the top are worth the effort. For a more leisurely stroll, the half-mile trail to Laurel Falls is a popular option with families. The trail is paved and easy to navigate, making it accessible to people of all ages and abilities.
The Great Smoky Mountains are home to a diverse range of wildlife, including black bears, coyotes, and white-tailed deer. Keep your eyes peeled for signs of these animals along the trails, and remember to respect their space by keeping a safe distance. If you're lucky, you might also spot a red fox, a bobcat, or a wild turkey. The park's rangers offer guided wildlife tours, which are a great way to learn more about the animals that call the park home.
If hiking isn't your thing, the Great Smoky Mountains also offer plenty of opportunities for scenic drives and overlooks. The Cades Cove Loop Road is a popular option, offering stunning views of the valley and the surrounding mountains. The road is 11 miles long and takes visitors through a historic settlement, past fields of wildflowers, and across streams and rivers. And don't miss the Clingmans Dome Overlook, which offers panoramic views of the park at an elevation of over 6,600 feet. The overlook is accessible by car and is a popular spot for sunrise and sunset photography.
For an immersive nature experience, why not spend a night under the stars in the Great Smoky Mountains? The park offers a variety of camping options, from backcountry camping to front country campgrounds with amenities like restrooms and fire pits. The backcountry campsites require a permit and are only accessible by hiking, but they offer a unique opportunity to experience the park's wilderness. And if you're just looking for a scenic spot for a picnic, there are plenty of options throughout the park. The picnic areas are equipped with tables, grills, and trash cans, and offer beautiful views of the mountains and valleys.
Overall, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature and the outdoors. With its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and endless opportunities for adventure, it's no wonder that this park is one of the most popular in the United States.
With over 640,000 acres of pristine wilderness, the Cherokee National Forest is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The forest, located in eastern Tennessee, is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including black bears, white-tailed deer, and wild turkey. It is also a popular destination for birdwatchers, with over 260 species of birds spotted in the forest.
Visitors to the Cherokee National Forest can enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and camping to fishing and boating. The forest is divided into two sections, the Unaka Mountains and the Great Smoky Mountains, each offering its own unique set of attractions.
One of the most popular recreation areas in the Cherokee National Forest is the Ocoee River, which offers world-class whitewater rafting. The river is also a popular spot for kayaking and canoeing, with several outfitters offering rentals and guided tours. For mountain bikers, the Tanasi Trail System is a must-visit, with over 30 miles of singletrack trails winding through the forest. And for anglers, the Watauga River is a top destination for fly fishing, with rainbow and brown trout abundant in its waters.
The Cherokee National Forest is home to some truly breathtaking waterfalls, including the 40-feet-tall Bald River Falls and the ethereal Cummins Falls. These waterfalls are not only a sight to behold, but they also offer the perfect backdrop for a picnic or a leisurely hike. And if you're looking for a place to cool off on a hot summer day, the pool at the base of the falls is the perfect spot. In addition to the waterfalls, the forest is also home to several swimming holes, including the popular Martha Sundquist State Forest swimming hole.
With over 150 miles of trails, the Cherokee National Forest is a paradise for mountain bikers and horseback riders. The famous Appalachian Trail also runs through the forest, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trail is a popular destination for thru-hikers, who attempt to hike the entire 2,200-mile trail from Georgia to Maine. For those who prefer a shorter hike, there are several day hikes available, including the Laurel Falls Trail and the Bald River Gorge Trail.
With over 650 miles of streams and a variety of lakes, the Cherokee National Forest is a top destination for anglers and boaters alike. In addition to the Watauga River, the forest is home to several other popular fishing spots, including the Hiwassee River and Citico Creek. There are also several boat ramps throughout the forest for boaters to launch their vessels, including the popular Parksville Lake and Tellico Lake.
Whether you're looking for a thrilling adventure or a peaceful retreat, the Cherokee National Forest has something for everyone. With its stunning natural beauty and endless recreational opportunities, it's no wonder this forest is a beloved destination for visitors from all over the world.
East Tennessee is a region known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. In addition to the national parks and forests, there are also several state parks that offer a chance to explore the area's stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Here are a few more of our favorite state parks in East Tennessee:
Cumberland Mountain State Park is a 1,720-acre park located on the Cumberland Plateau. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping. Visitors can explore over 17 miles of hiking trails, including the scenic Pioneer Trail, which winds through the woods and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The park is also home to Byrd Lake, which is stocked with trout and bass, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts.
Cove Lake State Park is a 717-acre park located in Campbell County. The park is centered around Cove Lake, a 210-acre reservoir that offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. Visitors can also explore the park's hiking trails, including the Cove Lake Trail, which offers beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains. In the winter, the park is a popular spot for sledding and ice skating.
David Crockett State Park is a 1,319-acre park located in Lawrenceburg. The park is named after the legendary frontiersman, and visitors can explore a replica of his original cabin, as well as a museum dedicated to his life and legacy. The park also offers opportunities for camping, hiking, and fishing. Visitors can explore over 5 miles of hiking trails, including the beautiful Shoal Creek Trail, which winds through the woods and along the banks of Shoal Creek.
Paris Landing State Park is a 841-acre park located on the banks of Kentucky Lake. The park offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and camping, as well as a championship-level golf course. Visitors can explore the park's hiking trails, including the 0.8-mile Eagle's Nest Trail, which offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding woods. The park is also home to a marina, where visitors can rent boats and explore the lake's many coves and inlets.
With so many state parks to explore, East Tennessee is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful hike through the woods or an action-packed day on the water, there's something for everyone in this beautiful region.
