There’s no better place to off-road than in the mountains, and you can pick whatever vehicle fill your thrills at Mountain Life Adventure Rentals. Choose from Polaris or Honda vehicles, then make your way to some of the most rugged, challenging trails in the Smoky Mountains and put your driving skills to the test. They’ve also got the lowdown on the best places to ride, so make sure you make them your first stop!
If you’re looking to buy your own ATV or UTV, talk to the folks at FRS Powersports. They carry top names like Hammerhead Off Road to help you onto your next adventure. Plus, they can ensure you get the right vehicle to suit your needs the first time.
For OEM parts and the best deals on ATVs and UTVs, locals know there’s no better place than Cool Springs Powersports. Their expertise means you get the best vehicle for your needs, plus they know all the good spots where you can take your new toy for some serious off-roading adventures. Brands include Yamaha, Kawasaki, and Honda, among others.
Polaris, Arctic Cat, and Kawasaki are just a few of the high-quality brands you’ll find here. Their fans love them because they’re the one-stop shop for hard-to-find parts, great service, and of course new and used vehicles.
Rent a buggy at Amped Super Sports, then spend the day navigating their miles of trails and enjoying a day outdoors. Kids and adults alike will love the guided tours. It’s muddy, fun, and guaranteed to make memories that will last a lifetime.
Specializing in both two-wheeled and four-wheeled varieties, you won’t find a more knowledgeable place in the area than Sloan’s. This discount motorcycle and ATV shop offers substantial cost savings over larger-scale dealers, helping you get the off-roading vehicle you want at a price to fit your budget. Some of their brands include Yamaha, Polaris, and Kawasaki.
To find Can-Am and Polaris ATVs and UTVs, head to this excellent retailer. East Tennessee ATV & Powersports’ inventory includes all the latest in motorsport monsters like the newest Can-Am Outlander and Polaris Sportsman ATVs that are ready to take you on an adventure.
]]>This scenic hike travels nearly eight miles up to the summit of Mount Le Conte and is fairly difficult, but the first leg of the trip to famed Arch Rock is just challenging enough to get your blood racing. This portion of the out-and-back trail parallels beautiful babbling creeks and features a shady canopy. You’ll traverse a gentle grade all the way to Arch Rock, where the trail winds its way under the rock up a steep set of steps. Enjoy the views, then make your way back down the often-slippery steps and enjoy a mostly downhill trek back to the to the trailhead.
Located in scenic Cades Cove in the Smoky Mountains, Abrams Falls takes you five miles round-trip. The trail features moderately difficult terrain. Given its location within Cades Cove, this hike is arguably one of the most scenic in the area, especially with the rewarding views of Abrams Falls at the turnaround point.
If you want an energizing hike but don’t have much time, the .8-mile River Trail at Burgess Falls is calling your name. This gorgeous trail is one of the state’s most popular, given its breathtaking views of four lovely waterfalls along the way. It’s also a well-known birding spot so you’ll have plenty of company on your trek.
Views of the waterfalls and gorge are reason enough to make a trip here, but it’s also a prime spot for a somewhat challenging hike. There are two routes to take you down into the gorge, a one-mile trail and a 1.5-mile trail. Each one has steep descents, raised tree roots, boulders, and other challenges to put your muscles to the test.
Located in Percy Warner Park, this 4.5-mile loop is a favorite among hikes and runners alike. Set against a wooded backdrop, there’s little to distract you from enjoying a peaceful walk through the woods. There are plenty of scenic spots, steep ascents and descents, uneven terrain, and other challenges that make for an enjoyable yet productive hike.
]]>Located about 40 miles east of Memphis, Fort Pillow State Historic Park is a gem among state parks. Created to preserve the area’s importance as a Civil War historic site, visitors can spend the day exploring the well-preserved breastworks and reconstructed inner fort. There are several artifacts on display in the park, as well as museum tours that will tell you everything you need to know about the area. It’s also a prime birdwatching spot, offering wildlife viewing opportunities and camping areas.
You can explore the former home of “Roots” author Alex Haley. This museum pays tribute to the life and achievements of Haley, along with the movement he created in American culture. There are several items on exhibit, as well as a gift shop and a brief documentary.
Grab the best burger in town at Kissell’s Kitchen, a down-home family eatery that’s dishing out comfort food and friendly service. They also specialize in fish chicken, barbecue, and their raved-about barbecue redneck egg roll. Kissell’s is open for all three meals, so there’s never a bad time to visit.
If burgers ain’t your thing, stop by the Hen House for deliciously golden fried chicken. You’ll find a little bit o’ everything here, including country fixings, country fried steak, and daily specials. It’s true Tennessee flavor, plain and simple.
Get to know the local area better with a trip to Lauderdale County Museum. Situated in the historic Sugar Hill Mansion built in 1842, this museum is free for the public to enjoy as they learn more about the history of Lauderdale County.
There are several sites along the western border of Tennessee that make up the Great River Road Trail, including the Riverside Drive Welcome Center and Beale Street Landing in Memphis. These sites (and others) are found along the shores of the Mississippi River and bear historical significance to the state. The Welcome Center features bronze statues of Elvis and BB King, perfect for an Instagram-worthy photo op.
Open for hunting and exploring, the Chickasaw National Wildlife Refuge offers prime viewing for Tennessee wildlife. Ideal for birdwatching, you may also catch glimpses of raccoon, whitetail deer, snakes, turtles, and squirrels.
]]>The Alum Cave Trail is a popular hike, going 2.5 miles to Alum Cave Bluffs and then extending five miles further to just below the summer of Mt. Le Conte. Along the way, you can hike through the narrow tunnel of Arch Rock and stop at a lookout called Inspiration Point. It’s a beautiful trek you won’t forget.
Abrams Falls Trail is a moderately difficult trail, accessible all year in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The trail is five miles roundtrip. The titular Abrams Falls is a 20-foot drop waterfall that attracts many hikers—expect the trail to be busy almost any time of year. Be careful as you walk, as there are plenty of roots that could trip up even the most experienced hiker.
Bays Mountain Park is a 3,500-acre nature preserve that is perfect for a day of family fun. This is the largest city-owned park in the state. Bays Mountain boasts a stunning 44-acre lake, a fascinating nature center, and a mind-blowing planetarium theater that the children will love! While here, you’ll also discover over 25 miles of picturesque hiking trails just waiting to be explored. Try out the more strenuous 5.3-mile Fire Tower trail or if you’re looking for an easier trek, go for the one-mile Floating Bridge hike.
The beautiful, 1,700-acre Cumberland Mountain State Park is situated in Cumberland County and is one of the most awe-inspiring places to explore in Tennessee. There you will find several easy to moderate trails excellent for those who aren’t too experienced. The Byrd Creek Trail is two miles-long and is categorized as easy/moderate. For an even easier hike, try the 1.8-mile Pioneer Short Loop. And for something more challenging, give the roughly six-mile Overnight Trail a go.
This state parked is named after a looming old bad cypress tree that once stood on the grounds. The tree was 1,350 years-old but was killed in 1976 when it was struck by lightning. At the state park, you’ll find several hiking trails, including the easy, .3-mile paved Tree Identification Trail. This is excellent for hikers, no matter their level of experience. Not to mention this area affords some of the most scenic views in the state!
]]>While rated as moderate, the Porters Creek Trail is one of the most kid-friendly in the Smokies. The total distance is about 4.5 miles, and can take about three and a half hours to traverse. This hike is tremendously serene, affording views of glistening streams and lush forestation. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of some beautiful, blossoming wildflowers.
Stone Door Trail in South Cumberland State Park is an awesome place to check out. A portion of this trail is paved, making it easy to bring the whole family. Featuring the beautiful Laurel Falls in the same area, there is so much to see and explore at this southern Tennessee area. Get ready to be amazed as you stand on the edge of these massive cliffs!
Laurel Falls is one of the easier hikes of the stunning Great Smoky Mountains. The roundtrip length of this trail is 2.3 miles and it has a total elevation gain of only 314 feet. Laurel Falls has been a much-loved hiking destination since the 1960s. While the hike itself is easy and good for all ages, it’s suggested to keep a close eye on the little ones as there can be some significant drop-offs in certain areas. The 80-foot waterfall is truly a sight to behold once you arrive. Bring a camera, because you’ll want to snap a photo of this stunning natural wonder.
Fall Creek is Tennessee’s largest and most popular state park. Spread across 26,000 acres of natural beauty, you’ll discover everything from gorges and waterfalls, to glimmering streams while hiking here. While there are some more difficult overnight trails for the more experienced, there are also day hikes available for those with less experience. With over 34 miles of trails, children can not only comfortably get an up-close look at nature, but engage in educational activities as well.
At Long Hunter, you’ll find over 20 miles of hiking trails, ranging in difficulty and terrain. There is a self-guided paved arboretum trail for those with a baby in a stroller looking for something less physically-intensive. There’s also the famous 5.5-mile Volunteer Trail that moves along the lakeshore. Keep in mind that pets are not permitted at all of the trails in the park! Your family is going to love this one.
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Seasoned trail runners looking for a new challenge should head to the roughly eight-mile out-and-back Ramsey Cascades Trail. Rated as difficult, this strenuous trail climbs gradually until the last mile, where it sharply ascends to an amazing payoff—a beautiful view of the waterfalls. Going back down you’ll challenge your muscles even more to ensure you don’t lose your footing. It’s by far one of the best trails in the Smoky Mountains, and makes for an epic running experience.
Short and sweet, this under-one-mile trail leads directly to a lovely waterfall and rolling views of the hilly terrain. If you’re wanting to up the challenge, there are other inter-looping trails that can extend your run by several miles. It’s a desirable spot for those just getting into trail running, with few challenges and relatively easy terrain. Plus, you don’t have to work too hard or too long for the rewarding views.
If you love the thought of a trail run but don’t want to commit your entire day to one, head to the Benton Falls Trail. This easy 1.5-mile trail takes you to the gorgeous Benton Falls, where you can enjoy the view before your return. The hike itself is fairly simple, but after a recent rain you’ll want to use extra caution. However, if you want to see the falls at their finest, you’ll want to explore this trail after a decent rainfall. Either way, you’re guaranteed to get a good run, falls or no falls.
This 1.3-mile trail is also one of most scenic spots for trail running. You’ll glimpse multiple waterfalls as you’re rushing through, along with beautiful foliage (especially in the fall months), wildlife, and a river to make your run more enjoyable. The trail itself is relatively simple, no confusing markings or strenuous challenges. If you’re just getting into trail running, this is your spot.
This 11-mile loop travels throughout Cades Cove, a historic area known for its breathtaking scenery and wildlife sightings. The park features a one-way, unpaved road that’s open to vehicles, but is closed to all but foot traffic and bicycles before 10 a.m. every Wednesday and Saturday morning. You won’t find much elevation change throughout the park, though there are a few slight hills, dips, and tight turns to add challenge to the distance. If you get there early, not only will you avoid traffic, you also have your best chance at spotting black bear, turkey, and deer.
]]>This 140-acre campground is owned by Malcolm, Barbara, and Greg Johnson. The Johnsons purchased the land in 1994 to make the area a family-friendly campground. They sure succeeded. The Tennessee Campground Association has awarded them with the “Tennessee Campground of the Year” award in years past, as well as several other accolades. Amenities include a climate-controlled bathhouse, laundry area, water park, playground, and a fenced in dog park for your four-legged friends!
This campground features 310 full hookup sites and 70 pull-through sites, each of them with a picnic table. You’ll find bathhouses with AC/heating, laundry rooms, a game room, a basketball court, two swimming pools, a lazy river, and so much more. There are also plenty of neighboring attractions like great restaurants, in case you’re looking for a nice sit-down meal. This site feels like a secluded camping experience, but you’ll have access to modern conveniences—perfect for those with small children!
The North Campground at this recreational park is the family area. From 10 p.m. until 8 a.m., it’s quiet time—great news for those with little kids looking to get to bed at a reasonable hour. There is a half mile of riverside camping with both primitive and 30 amp electrical/water sites. For primitive camping, it’s only $7 a person per night, and kids under 12 stay free! Check out their canoe rentals for an adventurous day on the water.
Situated in West Tennessee on 1,400 acres of land, Chickasaw State Park has a variety of camping options. There are 13 cabins, designed to sleep six people, outfitted with fireplaces and tucked away among beautiful pines. There are also 52 RV sites and 29 tent sites. Amenities include picnic tables, grills, bathhouses, and a playground.
The main campground area at Rock Island has 50 sites RVs and trailers, and 10 sites for tent-only camping. The tent-only campsites feature lantern hangers, fire rings, charcoal grills, and picnic tables. Activities at the state park include boating and swimming in Center Hill Lake, birding, picnicking, hiking, and more. For those looking to use Center Hill Lake for boating purposes: Be sure to check the conditions online before you head out. During active spill periods at the Great Falls Dam, guests are not permitted to access certain areas.
]]>The name gives its away—this is Tennessee’s premier birdwatching spot. The park is situated directly in the migratory path of its many visiting feathered friends. It’s also a prime breeding ground where visitors can find many nesting species. Purple martins and tree swallows are among the most commonly-sighted birds, but barn owls, sparrows, and singing birds are also quite popular. If possible, plan your visit for early morning or late afternoon for the best viewing opportunities.
Aside from the Aviary Education Center, this park also features plenty of birding excitement. November through April offers glimpses of wintering waterfowl, including ring-necked and canvasback duck. During the fall and spring, head through the forest along Otter Creek Road and Lake Trail for migratory birdwatching.
Known for its eagle sightings (there’s even an Eagle Festival!), this park also plays home to migratory birds during the fall. White pelicans, cormorants, wood ducks, warblers, and wading birds are among the most popular denizens here. The park features a variety of habitats to attract a diverse bird population, including a lake and wooded areas. You can catch glimpses of birdlife from the visitor center, but Keystone Trail offers some of the best views.
Dubbed an Important Bird Area (IBA) by the Audubon Society, this area is essential for migrating neotropical birds. Flycatchers, gnatcatchers, warblers, and waterthrush are commonly sighted in the spring and summer months. A number of warbler species can be seen if you climb to the higher elevations of the park. In total, over 130 species of birds have been spotted in the park over the course of a year. Use the park’s variety of hiking trails to enjoy your bird spotting adventure.
Due to its mix of open flatlands and wooded acreage, this site is a true sanctuary for the feathered variety. Migrating species are commonly spotted here, including thrushes, flycatchers, warblers, and tanagers. Visitors have largely reported great horned owl and barred owl sightings, along with red-shouldered hawks that nest in the spring. Year-round you might see wild turkeys, bluebirds, woodpeckers, kingfishers, and nuthatches, while a variety of other species appear on a seasonal basis.
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Bear Cove Village in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, offers RV sites and cabin camping all year round. The recipient of the 2005 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence, Bear Cove sites include free Wi-Fi, free cable, after hours’ registration, hot showers, two pools, playground, dog park, mail service, a fishing pond, and much more. Good Sam Club members enjoy a 10 percent discount on nightly rates, which differ in price depending on the month. Visit the nearby Dollywood adventure park, Smoky Mountain, and Dixie Stampede Dinner Shows while you’re in town.
The Defeated Creek Park Campground is part of the larger Defeated Creek Park in Carthage, Tennessee, along the Cordell Hull Lake banks. The campground has 155 sites for tents and RVs and electrical and water hook-ups at each site. Amenities include a boat ramp, beach, playground, tennis courts, and an adjacent marina. The lake consists of 12,000 acres and 381 miles of shoreline, with ample opportunity to fish or partake in watersports.
Anchor Down in charming small-town Dandridge, Tennessee, is the recipient of many awards, including Traveler Life’s Reader’s Choice Award, Jefferson County’s Reader’s Choice Award, Good Sam RV Travel and Saving’s Guide Award, and TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence. What makes Anchor Down so wonderful? With over 170 sites in their luxury resort on Douglas Lake, you’ll find a staggering number of amenities, including beach areas, boat ramps, cable, Wi-Fi, full hook-ups, golf cart rentals, paved streets, saltwater kiddie pool, and much more. Rates start at $49 per night and go up depending on what kind of site you prefer.
Cove Creek RV Resort in Sevierville, Tennessee, offers magnificent views of Cove Mountain. Self-styled as an “upscale RV campground,” amenities include gravel and concrete cites, electricity, water and sewer hook-up, luxury clubhouse with free coffee, game room, swimming pool, catch and release fishing pond, resort activities and site ownership opportunities. Choose from nightly or monthly pricing options.
Camp on over 200 acres at Deer Run RV Resort in Crossville, Tennessee. Amenities include access to the 25-acre lake, basketball, beach area, cable, chapel, convenience store, deli, horseshoe pits, lake fishing, lakefront cabins, playground, swimming pool, and much more. Rates differ between full hook-up RV sites and no hook-ups, with daily, weekly, monthly, and holiday options. Military members and Good Sam Club members receive a discount on daily and holiday rates.
]]>Nestled in the majestic Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is THE destination in Tennessee for all things great outdoors. In the fall, the town comes alive in beautiful fall foliage surrounded by crisp mountain air. Hundreds of miles of hiking trails, wildlife viewing, climbing, four-wheeling, and mountain biking are just a few of the many outdoor sports and activities you can do here in the fall—and you’ll want enough time to take advantage of them all!
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Known for their top notch beer and cider selections, you can expect to find plenty of fall-flavored gems here. Playing in and around Gatlinburg works up an appetite, and you’ll be glad to find a place that has the best of both food and drink where you can refuel for your next adventure. Also, legend has it that the pub might be haunted—perfect for Halloween-addicts!
The name implies a trail blazing with orange, yellow, and red, and it doesn’t disappoint. Running from Tracy City to Foster Falls, the trail has been named one of the top hiking trails in the country. Along the way you can expect to see rock formations, waterfalls, and some of the oldest hemlocks in Tennessee.
The only thing better than biking is doing it with hundreds of fellow bike riders while taking in the best sights of the state. This organized group ride begins at Fall Creek Falls State Park and spans six days. You can expect out-and-back rides and longer distances for riders of every skill level. Hot showers, supported routes, hidden gems, and scenic views on every ride remind you why Tennessee is one of the best destinations for outdoor fun.
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Rock climbing here is available by permit only, but the views are so pretty you won’t mind taking that extra step. Copperhead Rock offers routes for beginners and advanced climbers alike, mostly for top roping and repelling. Camping and cabins are also available within the park so you can extend your fun.
Sponsored by outdoor great Trailhead Bicycle and Apple Valley Orchard, this festival is dedicated to one of Tennessee’s most beloved crops. These two days in downtown Cleveland feature tons of apple desserts and family-friendly fun. Live music, pony rides, and the Trailhead Bicycle Kid’s Zone give you plenty of reason to stay awhile.
One of Cleveland’s top-rated coffeehouses, their menu features brews made with coffee roasted in nearby Clarksville that offers nothing but fine, fresh flavor. They also have breakfast and lunch favorites, including paninis, sandwiches, and sweet treats. Come here to enjoy a snack or meal during the Cleveland Apple Festival.
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Rocky Top Outfitter offers bird watching tours with a professional guide to help you find the many varieties of fall bird species. Tours can range in difficulty, from easy hikes near places like Pigeon Forge and the Sugarlands Nature Trail, to more advanced birdwatching locations like Alum Cave Trail. Rocky Top Outfitter can help you stock up on gear and essentials for your trip, too
Cooler weather is the best time to hit the trails and leave your mark. Adventure Off Road Park offers miles of trails for Jeeps and buggies alike, all filled with their fair share of obstacles, twists, turns, and surprises. Hit up the Off Road Jamboree in October, a family-friendly weekend packed with competitions, group rides, camping, and more.
A locals favorite fill-up, this diner has all the classic American fare you can handle. After your day on the trails at Adventure Off Road Park, head here to find reasonable portions and prices. Service is usually quick, so this makes a great pitstop if you want a quick break from riding.
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Likewise, bass fishing is starting to pick up again as the weather begins to cool. Huge schools of threadfin shad are starting to filter away from open-water ledges into bays and tributaries where feeding conditions and water temperatures are more optimum.
Bass follow the food, first setting up on ledges at the mouths of inlets and creeks to waylay shad, then migrating back toward shallower water to keep up with their quarry.
Fall Script for Southern Bass
Bass rule in Dixie and cooler weather brings out an army of anglers who go after them. Whether largemouth, smallmouth or spotted bass, they’re available in most waters and sometimes all three varieties are present in a fishery, ready to aggravate or gratify those who seek them.
Hot Spots To Fish: When it comes to the South’s best lakes for fall fishing, the big TVA impoundments fit the bill. Because this is bass tournament country, dozens of YouTube videos and Facebook sites of pro anglers offer useful advice on where and how to catch autumn largemouths. Likewise, guide services are plentiful; just Google “fishing guides” for the lake you’re visiting or type in the town nearest the lake you wish to fish on the interactive map on this page.
Tackle You’ll Need: A 7-foot medium/heavy rod such as the St. Croix Premier Cranking, a baitcasting reel like the Abu Garcia Revo Winch and 10- to 14-pound-test monofilament makes a good combination to fish downsized lures.
Quick tip: This is strictly a match-the-hatch deal. Use lures that are about the same size as wandering shad. If young-of-the-year threadfins are on the bass menu, try small swim baits fished on drop-shot rigs.
Best Lures/Baits: Shad-colored, shallow- and medium-diving square-billed or coffin-billed crankbaits are autumn standouts. Popular lures include the Strike King 6XD, Bandit 100 or 200, Duo Realis M65, Livetarget Magnum Shad BaitBall Squarebill, Megabass S-Crank, Lucky Craft Squarebill 2.5, Storm Arashi and Rapala Shad Rap.
Fish them around shoreline cover and on the flats between creek drop-offs and the bank. Other fallback baits include spinnerbaits like the Booyah Super Shad, Stanley Vibrashaft and Nichols Pulsator. Good buzzbait options can be found from Lunker Lure, Damiki, Santone and Dirty Jigs.
Find the best fishing spots near you:
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Rendezvous With Redfish
Along the northern Gulf Coast from Carrabelle, FL, to Grand Isle, LA, the redfish season begins in late September and continues in stages through December. Some anglers fish in the surf with cut bait, while others station themselves on area piers or in boats on relatively shallow flats near channel cuts.
Hot Spots To Fish: For boating anglers, a couple of spots stick out. Pensacola Bay Pass is a must-fish for boaters. Anchor up on the broad flat between old Fort Pickens and the channel, set out lines as the tide changes to incoming, and hang on. Need more help? Redfish University Pensacola Fishing Charters (850-748-4368, redfishuniversity.com) specializes in the big drum.
At Grand Isle, LA, book a trip with Gotta Go Fishing Charters (225-921-3642, gottagofishingcharters.com). The marshes and inshore waters around Venice, LA, are primo redfish haunts as well. Captain Mike Frenette (504-782-0924, laredfish.com or ([email protected]) is a top guide here.
Tackle You’ll Need: “Rat” reds of 3 pounds and up, or real bruisers weighing in excess of 20 pounds require a range of tackle options. Bass fishing tackle – whether spinning or baitcasting – is perfect for handling smaller fish and for casting jigs or swimbaits that weigh less than an ounce. A Shimano Stradic spinning reel and 7-foot medium-action Shimano Compre rod with 14-pound-test monofilament.
For bigger fish, consider a Penn Battle II BTLII5000 with 20-pound-test monofilament or 40-pound-test braid, and a 30-pound-test fluorocarbon leader. A 7-foot medium-heavy spinning rod (such as the Penn Battalion BATIN1220S70) should handle any bait rigs or lures and wear down a bull redfish in short order.
Quick Tip: Incoming tides in late evening or at night are primo times for reds as the fish free-spawn then in the mouths of coastal bays and estuaries. If you can’t fish any other time, make sure you fish the incoming tides.
Best Lures/Baits: Redfish aren’t particular about their dietary requirements and will eat anything from blue crabs to halved mullet. Swimming spoons such as the Johnson Sprite (johnsonfishing.com), swimbaits and jigs or even topwater poppers, such as the Heddon Saltwater Spook, will elicit strikes.
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This over 880-acre state park has everything going for it: beautiful river views, waterfalls, trails, and plenty of outdoor sporting opportunities. The park’s unique position at the confluence of three rivers (Caney Fork, Rocky, and Collins) has created myriad scenic areas for visitors to enjoy, including the awe-inspiring Caney Fork River Gorge. Fans flock to the area for fishing and kayaking, as well as year-round camping to get back in touch with nature. If you’re planning on visiting, you might want to spend a couple days here to get the most from your visit.
The gorge is an absolute must-see if you visit, and the Upstream Trail is the easiest way to get there. This moderate-rated trail is just half a mile one-way, starting from the Twin Falls Overlook parking area. This area of the gorge is a popular place for swimming, but it can be risky. You’ll need to leave the same way you came, making your round-trip about a mile.
Inside the park you’ll find the remnants of frontier settlements and old cemeteries. Hop on the two-mile Collins River Connector trail to get there, either by foot or by mountain bike. The trail itself isn’t too difficult, and is a must if you crave a bit of history with your visit.
Rock Island State Park is a camper’s paradise year-round. Take your pick of cabin rentals or traditional campsites for RVs or tents. Both campgrounds within the park offer Wi-Fi and bathhouses with hot water. They also offer treated firewood available for purchase on site.
This natural area is just a few miles away from Rock Island State Park and is named for the discovery of a giant sloth skeleton back in 1811. The bones are on display at the Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia, but visitors can explore the natural area where they were found. The cave itself has plenty of historical significance as a saltpeter mine in the 19th century, and contains several well-preserved artifacts from its heyday. The cave spans nearly 10 miles of passage, making it one of longest mapped caves in the state. If you want to visit the cave, you’ll need to contact Rock Island State Park as access is limited.
Grab some local flavors at Foglight Foodhouse, a Cajun-inspired eatery with Southern roots and plenty to fill every appetite. Inside the rustic exterior you’ll find fresh seafood, jambalaya, and steaks, all served up with a side of Creole soul. It’s warm, cozy, and friendly, and just might become a must-stop anytime you’re in the area.
Just 30 minutes separates Rock Island State Park and Cumberland Caverns, a tourism hotbed that takes visitors deep underground to explore lost secrets. You can tour the caverns by day or book an overnight excursion, giving you an opportunity to traverse its 32 miles of passages. Underground waterfalls, rock formations, and fun events await you.
]]>About 45 minutes Northwest of Knoxville lays one of the largest rock climbing locales in the state. The sandstone cliffs offer a beautiful climbing experience, and numerous campsites help climbers turn their experience into a days-long trip. Nearly 350 climbing routes await you, mostly sport climbs but with a few trad and top ropes mixed in. Among the favorites here are Gunslinger, Whippersnapper, and Pocketeer, but in all honesty, you just can’t go wrong.
Just outside of Chattanooga, you’ll find some of the best boulder climbs in the Southeast. The site has hosted the Triple Crown Bouldering competition and offers one of the most versatile climbing areas you’ll find. With nearly 250 total climbing routes, there’s something for every skill level.
If you’re looking for trad climbing, the Tennessee Wall is your go-to destination. Featuring some of the best trad climbs in the Southeast, climbers can journey along beautiful sandstone covered by hundreds of climbing routes. Most of the crag is single-pitch, but parts of the wall are multi-pitch if you’re looking for extra challenges. Due to its southbound face, the winter and fall are your best climbing times to avoid the miserable summer heat.
If you want to add a little extra adventure to your climb, head to Mizell Bluffs on Tellico Lake, where you can access your climbing spot by kayak or by trail. There are only two climbing routes here, both trad, but the area is usually not overcrowded and makes for a more enjoyable climb. Its west-facing wall makes it an ideal spot to enjoy the sunset, a well-deserved treat for completing your climb.
As if the name wasn’t enticing enough, Castle Rock is among the most scenic sport climbing spots in the state. With over 40 total climbing routes (a few trads are sprinkled in here), this large orange bluff is the premier winter climbing destination. Peak climbing season here is November, but the rest of the year is usually fairly quiet.
]]>While this isn’t exactly a walk in the woods, this strenuous skyward hike of only half a mile makes up for its length with breathtaking views. A saucer-shaped covered platform awaits you at the top, giving you a 360-degree view of the area. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is well known for its fall color, attracting both locals and visitors from other states and countries each fall. For the best viewing, make your way here during the last two weeks in October, when the fall colors are fully ablaze. Clingmans Dome also offers access to the Appalachian Trail.
If you get here early enough, you’ll have the chance to glimpse some wildlife along with stunning fall views. This 11-mile one-way loop is opened to motorists from 10 a.m. onward, but it’s the perfect scene for hikers and cyclists prior to the onslaught of vehicles. Here you can explore historical sites and preserved buildings from the 1800s, in addition to an abundance of mountain views from the sweeping valley plains. Aside from the loop, there are several hiking trails that wind their way through this park, including the five-mile trek to Abram Falls.
This rewarding hike offers plenty of pleasant surprises as you wind your way to the top of Mt. LeConte. From a refreshing site at Arch Rock to the much-needed rest point at Alum Cave, you’ll have beautiful fall foliage following you every step of the way. The trail mostly aligns with a shimmering creek that adds a nice touch to your photographs. For the best views of the leaves, you’ll want to go the distance to the top of Mt. LeConte, which is upwards of 11 miles one-way.
Also part of the Great Smoky Mountains, you’ll join the trail at the Low Gap Trailhead near the Cosby campground, then follow it for three miles before joining the Appalachian Trail. It’s a steep, unforgiving climb with multiple switchbacks, but winding your way through the hardwood forests under a canopy of glistening fall color is well worth it. The trip to the top totals about 5.5 miles, taking you nearly 5,000 feet-high.
Over footbridges, past waterfalls, and through the woods you’ll find the area alight with fall beauty. Roughly four miles down and back, hikers will enjoy the stunning views of 60-foot Fern Branch Falls before turning back toward home. All along the way, you’ll have the quiet company of beautiful leaves surrounding you. It’s a great trail for hikers who want a slightly challenging trail, as well as those who enjoy historical sites along with their intake of Mother Nature.
]]>There’s no shortage of activities throughout the year at this state park, but the milder temperatures of fall make them easier to enjoy. As the state’s largest and most visited state park, guests can explore the multiple waterfalls, trails, and all things nature throughout its 26,000 acres. Campers can opt for one of several campsites, or take the backcountry roads and sleep away from civilization. It’s also the site of an epic aerial adventure course, complete with rope bridges, swings, nets, and zip lines for an above-the-trees experience you won’t be soon to forget.
Rustic and charming, camping at Big Ridge State Park will make you long for the days before the technological takeover. Take a step back in time as you visit the historic grist mill and other facilities that once enlivened the area. The park is dotted with hiking trails ranging from very easy to experts-only, and can give everyone in the family a chance to challenge their own skills. While you’re there, you’ll be able to experience Tennessee’s fall foliage the way nature intended—quietly and uninterrupted. It’s a camping trip you’ll want to relive again and again.
Located on beautiful Center Hill Lake, this sprawling park is home to some of the state’s best wildlife and foliage viewing. Grab your binoculars for an unforgettable bird watching experience, catching glimpses of bald eagles, owls, and hawks. Set against a gorgeous mountainside backdrop, guests can take advantage of the observation tower to get frame-worthy photos of the rich colors of the Tennessee autumn.
Former home to a steamboat landing, this state park nestled against Kentucky Lake makes for a premier fall camping destination. Complete with golf course, fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing, this state park has everything a camper needs for a weekend in the woods. Turkey, fox, and coyote are known to make frequent appearances. It’s a beautiful spot for a little natural therapy.
Don’t let the name fool you—there aren’t any real frozen heads here. Named for the always-frozen peak in the Cumberland Mountains, campers can set their sights on acres upon acres of unspoiled mountain prestige. Take a walk to the top of the observation deck to get a glimpse of Mother Nature at her finest, enveloped in blazing fall colors that are just begging for a photo.
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