Wing Deer Park
Winged Deer Park, established in 1991 on former farmland once owned by the J. Norton Arney family, is a 200-acre district park offering a wide variety of amenities for the community. The property features athletic facilities including lighted softball and soccer fields, batting cages, an 18-hole disc golf course, playgrounds, walking and fitness trails, and lakefront recreation with sand volleyball, picnic areas, boating access, and a boardwalk. Visitors can also enjoy the park’s amphitheatre, Festival Plaza, and historical area, which includes the Robert Young Cabin, the Massengil Monument, and the James H. Quillen Historical Tree Arboretum.
Address: 4137 Bristol Highway, Johnson City, TN37601
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Phone: (423) 283-5815
Bluff City
Bluff City, TN is a small town packed with outdoor adventure, family fun, and local charm. Visitors can kayak or paddleboard the South Fork Holston River, explore Appalachian Caverns or the rugged Worley’s Cave, and hike or picnic at Whitetop Creek Park. Families love the Backyard Terrors Dinosaur Park with its life-size prehistoric sculptures, while history buffs can step back in time at Sycamore Shoals, Fort Watauga, or the Elizabethton Covered Bridge nearby. The Virginia Creeper Trail offers a scenic biking and hiking experience just a short drive away, and no trip is complete without stopping at Ridgewood Barbecue, a local favorite for its famous smoked meats and signature sauce. Whether you’re into nature, history, or unique roadside attractions, Bluff City has a little something for everyone.
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Cherokee National Forest
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Cherokee National Forest offers over 655,000 acres of outdoor adventure in eastern Tennessee, featuring more than 600 miles of hiking trails, including portions of the Appalachian and Benton MacKaye Trails. Visitors can explore stunning waterfalls like Benton Falls, Coon Den Falls, and the Rock Creek Gorge area, or enjoy scenic drives along the Ocoee Scenic Byway and Backbone Rock. The forest is perfect for water recreation on the Ocoee River, Chilhowee Lake, and Parksville Lake, as well as backcountry camping and wildlife viewing in its 11 designated wilderness areas. With historic sites like Fort Armistead and vibrant seasonal scenery—from spring wildflowers to fall foliage—Cherokee National Forest is ideal for hiking, paddling, sightseeing, and experiencing the beauty of the Appalachian wilderness.
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Laurel Falls Trailhead & Appalachian Trail
The Laurel Fork Falls via Appalachian Trail is a scenic 2.4-mile out-and-back hike located in the Pond Mountain Wilderness of Tennessee. This moderate trail follows the Appalachian Trail north from the Dennis Cove Trailhead, meandering through lush rhododendron forests and alongside the Laurel Fork stream. The final stretch includes a series of stone steps leading down to the base of the 40-foot waterfall, offering a rewarding view of the cascading waters. The hike is approximately 1.5 miles one-way and takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to complete, with an elevation gain of 485 feet. It's a popular destination for hikers seeking a relatively short yet picturesque adventure in the Cherokee National Forest.
Address: US-321, Hampton, TN 37658
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Ross's Landing
Ross’s Landing Park, located on Chattanooga’s picturesque Riverfront, commemorates John Ross, who served as Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation from 1828 to 1866. The park offers a mix of recreational and cultural attractions, including a natural amphitheater, river pier, Chattanooga Green, an accessible playground, a marina, and scenic riverfront walkways. It hosts a variety of concerts and events and is also home to the Tennessee Aquarium. Visitors can explore a plaza with interactive wading pools and streams, stroll along elevated walkways lined with native plants, take in views of the Tennessee River, and discover historical markers honoring the area’s Native American and military heritage. The Passage water feature is open daily from 8:30 am to 10 pm, running from early May through September.
Address: 101 Riverfront Pkwy Chattanooga,TN
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Chattanooga's Riverwalk
The Chattanooga Riverwalk is a scenic 16.1-mile paved path that stretches along the southern banks of the Tennessee River, offering a blend of nature, culture, and recreation. This family-friendly trail connects parks, museums, and green spaces, providing access to various attractions such as the Tennessee Aquarium, Bluff View Art District, and Coolidge Park. Along the route, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like biking, walking, and picnicking, with numerous restaurants and cafes nearby to explore. The Riverwalk is accessible from multiple trailheads throughout the city, making it easy to customize your experience.
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Lookout Mountain
Lookout Mountain, towering 2,000 feet above Chattanooga, Tennessee, is a renowned destination blending natural beauty, adventure, and rich history. Visitors can explore iconic attractions such as Rock City, featuring unique rock formations and panoramic views; Ruby Falls, home to the nation's deepest underground waterfall; and the Incline Railway, one of the world's steepest passenger railways offering breathtaking vistas. The mountain also boasts historical sites like Point Park, which commemorates the Civil War's "Battle Above the Clouds," and offers numerous hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and opportunities for hang gliding. Whether seeking outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, Lookout Mountain provides a diverse array of activities for all ages.
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