Discover the Abundance of Adventure in Tennessee’s 9 Lakes Region
When Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto traveled through what is now the southeastern United States in search of riches and a passage to China, he likely never imagined that one of the greatest treasures he encountered would be the region’s remarkable natural beauty. What he did find was an abundance of fresh water, fertile land, pearls, minerals, wildlife, and welcoming Native communities.
Today, that same spirit of discovery draws visitors to Tennessee’s 9 Lakes Region, where unforgettable outdoor adventures, Southern hospitality, scenic landscapes, and authentic Appalachian culture create one of the Southeast’s premier travel destinations.
Located within a 90-minute drive of Knoxville, the 9 Lakes Region offers an incredible concentration of nationally recognized parks, trails, scenic byways, and waterways, including:
- 4 National Parks and Historic Sites
- Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
- Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area
- Manhattan Project National Historical Park
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- 1 National Wild & Scenic River
- Obed Wild & Scenic River, also recognized as an International Dark Sky Park
- 1 National Forest
- Cherokee National Forest, Tennessee’s only national forest
- 5 National Scenic Byways
- Cherohala Skyway
- Cumberland Gap Historic Byway
- East Tennessee Crossing Byway, following the historic Daniel Boone Wilderness Road
- Norris Historic Freeway
- Newfound Road in the Smokies
- 2 National Historic Trails
- Appalachian Trail
- Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail
- 9 Tennessee State Parks
- 9 Beautiful Lakes offering boating, paddling, fishing, swimming, and waterfront recreation.
Whether you’re planning a scenic road trip, hiking a legendary trail, paddling quiet waters, casting a line, or simply enjoying the mountain views, the 9 Lakes Region is where Tennessee’s abundance comes to life.
Create your own expedition and discover why Great Places. Great Adventures. isn’t just a slogan—it’s the experience waiting for you in Tennessee’s 9 Lakes Region.
#GreatPlacesGreatAdventures
