East Tennessee — a place known for its beautiful landscapes, majestic mountains, and peaceful outdoor spaces. Whether you’re a hiker, a nature enthusiast, someone looking to enjoy a peaceful day outside, or you are looking for places to escape reality, East Tennessee has plenty of parks to suit every need. Here are five (5) of the top parks in East Tennessee, each offering unique experiences and breathtaking views.
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Location: Gatlinburg, TN
- Best For: Hiking, wildlife viewing, camping, scenic drives
- Overview: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the United States and for a good reason. Located on the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, the park offers a wide range of activities from hiking to wildlife watching. Popular hikes like Clingmans Dome, Alum Cave Trail, and Laurel Falls are just a few highlights. The park’s stunning views, waterfalls, and old-growth forests make it a must-see for anyone visiting the area.
- Google Maps Link: Great Smoky Mountains National Park
2. Norris Dam State Park
- Location: Andersonville, TN
- Best For: Fishing, boating, hiking, picnicking
- Overview: Located on the shores of Norris Lake, Norris Dam State Park offers different kinds of activities that visitors can do including fishing, boating, and hiking. The park is home to several trails, such as the easy-going Norris Trail and the more challenging Lake View Trail. Visitors can also explore the historic Norris Dam, which was completed in 1936 and plays an essential role in Tennessee’s power grid.
- Google Maps Link: Norris Dam State Park
3. Frozen Head State Park
- Location: Wartburg, TN
- Best For: Hiking, backpacking, wildlife watching
- Overview: Frozen Head State Park is a hidden gem in East Tennessee known for its challenging hikes and remote beauty. This 24,000-acre park offers the famous “Frozen Head” summit, which provides breathtaking views of the Cumberland Plateau. Visitors can enjoy various trails, including the strenuous Chimney Top Trail, or explore the park’s dense forests and waterfalls. It’s also home to the famous Barkley Marathons, one of the toughest ultramarathons in the world.
- Google Maps Link: Frozen Head State Park
4. Cove Lake State Park
- Location: Caryville, TN
- Best For: Fishing, boating, hiking, picnicking
- Overview: Cove Lake State Park is a beautiful 673-acre park located in the foothills of the Cumberland Mountains. It features a scenic lake perfect for fishing and boating, and the surrounding trails are ideal for hiking and picnicking. The park is family-friendly and offers a peaceful setting with views of the lake and mountains. Don’t miss the 2.3-mile loop trail that surrounds the lake, offering a great way to enjoy nature without straying too far from the water.
- Google Maps Link: Cove Lake State Park
5. Roan Mountain State Park
- Location: Roan Mountain, TN
- Best For: Hiking, picnicking, camping, wildflower viewing
- Overview: Roan Mountain State Park is a stunning park located in the highlands of the Appalachian Mountains. It is famous for its beautiful rhododendron gardens, particularly during the peak bloom season in June. The park also offers numerous trails, including the popular Carver’s Gap Trail, which provides incredible views of the surrounding mountains. Whether you’re a wildflower enthusiast or just looking to explore scenic trails, Roan Mountain State Park offers something for everyone.
- Google Maps Link: Roan Mountain State Park
East Tennessee’s parks offer something for every outdoor lover — whether you’re looking for a peaceful day by the lake or a challenging mountain hike. From the world-renowned Great Smoky Mountains to the hidden gems like Frozen Head State Park, there’s no way you’ll get bored of the natural beauty to explore in this region. Be sure to check out the provided Google Maps links to help plan your trip and discover the splendor of East Tennessee’s outdoor spaces!