Area Events, bike trails
East Tennessee Cycling Events Calendar 2024
East Tennessee has become a national destination for road, MTB, and gravel cycling. From Windrock Bike Park with its expert gravity trails to the hundreds of miles of trail offering gnarly MTB single and double track, an IMBA epic at Big South Fork NRRA, long leisurely roads exploring the countryside, surfaced trails connecting metro communities,... Read More
9 Lakes, Area Events, free admission
Spring Events in East Tennessee
Festival season is now in full bloom across the region. You can step back in time to learn about traditional Appalachian traditions, listen to live music, or test your hand at fly fishing for trout in the cold mountain waters. Most of these events are FREE, making it easy to enjoy a full calendar of... Read More
9 Lakes, Area Events
Spring is Blooming with Flowers, Festivals, and Fun
The season of spring festivals is ramping up. Spring break and warm weekends are calling us outdoors to play. For adventurists seeking thrills, white water season on the Pigeon River will be opening by March. The sights, sounds, and tastes of Appalachia spring can be found in the 9 Lakes of East Tennessee. Come to... Read More
9 Lakes, Area Events, bird watching, Getaways
Winter Wanderings- 2024 Winter Events in East Tennessee
Wondering where to wander during the chilly winter months? The winter does bring a chill and some snow to the 9 Lakes of East Tennessee. but winter also brings some of the hottest bird watching, geode searching, and indoor adventures of the year. If you find yourself wondering where to wander, this is one of... Read More
travel planning
How to Plan a Sabbatical and Make the Most of It
When an individual takes a sabbatical, it means they are taking a break from the office for a prolonged period, typically for a year. While sabbaticals are often associated with the field of education, in recent times, companies across industries have started offering sabbaticals to employees. Going on a sabbatical can provide various benefits, such... Read More
family holidays, things to do
Seasonal Festivities to Light Up your Holidays
In the 9 Lakes of East Tennessee, the holiday season is marked by traditions and blessings. Music, decorations, holiday lights, and favorite recipes handed down from generation to generation make the season special. While many of us no longer have time to set up light displays or head to the woods to cut fresh greens,... Read More
fishing, paddling
Kayak Fishing Basics for Beginners
From the moment I tried kayak fishing, I was hooked! Well, not literally, thank goodness, that would have hurt. I knew I had just begun a hobby that would soon consume hours of my weeks and many dollars of my paychecks. Currently, one of my kayaks is worth more than my truck, but I didn’t... Read More
9 Lakes, Area Events, bike trails, fall foliage, paddling
Autumn Fun in the 9 Lakes Region
The wave of autumn colors is the backdrop for lots of fun autumn activities. If you are yearning to be on the water, the lakes and days are still warm enough to go paddling or for a fall foliage cruise. Some of the prettiest paddle routes are along the Powell River Blueway on Norris Lake... Read More
travel planning
Work Hard, Play Hard: The Ultimate Guide for Business Adventurers
Business travel can be both exciting and challenging. Whether you are a seasoned business traveler or embarking on your first journey, this article from 9 Lakes of East Tennessee offers valuable tips to enhance your experience, maintain productivity, and find moments of enjoyment during your trips. From managing rest and downtime to embracing local culture... Read More
Area Events, fall foliage
Fall is for Leaves and Festivals
Football, festivals, and leaves are a fun season in the 9 Lakes Region The official start of Fall is Sept 23, but when should you plan to take leaf peeping trip? When to experience the season is up to you…but we have some suggestions to help with your planning. Smokies High Elevation – Gatlinburg- the... Read More