East Tennessee is a gorgeous valley nestled between the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Cumberland Plateau. Locals are able to live on the lake or in the mountains and only be 30 minutes from work. Active individuals enjoy outdoor lifestyles with mild weather all year around.
The most popular recreational activities are:
- Hiking on the trails in the mountains and the Appalachian Trails
- Camping near, fishing in, and swimming in one of the many lakes and rivers
- Touring the natural beauty of the Great Smoky National Park and the Big South Fork Park atop the Cumberland Plateau
- Touring caverns such as the Lost Sea in Sweetwater and the Tuckaleechee Taverns
- White water rafting in the Cherokee National Forest and the Virgin Falls
- Viewing the amazing Aquariums in Gatlinburg and Chattanooga
- Visiting the Dolly Wood Amusement Park in Pigeon Forge and the Tourist town of Gatlinburg
- Attending one of the many University of Tennessee Volunteers sports events
- Driving through the Dogwood Trails
- Excellent hunting and fishing
- Horseback riding in the national parks
Culture is also nurtured, with an emphasis on the areas fine and performing arts and the historic culture of the Appalachian people. Academic interests are also satisfied with the nearby University of Tennessee-Knoxville, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and Maryville College along with the numerous other educational institutions. Click below to learn more about what East Tennessee has to offer.