9 Lakes, bike trails, Trails
Naughty or Nice? New Hiking and Biking Trails Coming in 2021
The 9 Lakes region is already a four season’s destination for trail lovers. These trail enthusiasts must have been very, very nice this year, because Santa has made his way early to the 9 Lakes of East TN. Two new trails projects have been announced for 2021. The first trail plan was announced for Cocke... Read More
9 Lakes, Cultural Influences, history
Cornbread- A Southern Food Legacy of Native Americans
November is Native American Heritage Month. In the Tennessee River Valley, the influences of Native People are everywhere, from the names of the rivers and towns to the complex political and social history of the region. When white adventurers began their explorations as early as 1540, the Native Americans shared food with these early explorers,... Read More
downtowns, family holidays, Outdoors, social distancing
Downtowns Not to Miss during the Holiday Season
Downtowns and Main Streets are the heart and soul of both urban and rural communities. During the holiday season, rediscover those simple sights and sounds of the season by visiting a main street to see the festive displays and decorations. COVID may have limited our ability to be together, but it cannot limit the cheer... Read More
9 Lakes, Stargazing
Stargazing- 8 Tips All Super Stargazers (and Novices) Should Know And Follow
Submitted by Guest Blogger, Mark Taylor If you have lived in a large city with many lights, you probably don’t get to see the starry sky in all its glory every day. However, if you have ever visited the countryside, at some time, you have probably gazed upwards and marveled at the incredibly starry sky.... Read More
9 Lakes, COVID Safe vacations, driving trails, fall foliage, Outdoors, social distancing
Ready for a Road Trip: Hidden Gems for Where to Stay Safe and Play Safe
Taking a road trip is one of the most popular ways to visit the 9 Lakes of East Tennessee in the fall. During this time of COVID, you have been asking us how you can still visit this region’s beautiful outdoor attractions, while keeping your family safe. To help you find an uncrowded getaway, here... Read More
9 Lakes, Area Events, COVID Safe vacations, driving trails, fall foliage, Getaways, motorcycles, Water Trails
Fall in Love with Autumn in East Tennessee
Saying goodbye to summer means welcoming the beautiful colors of fall. Autumn is traditionally a time to hunt and gather the bounty of the land. Hunters are “in the woods,” while gatherers are harvesting the bounty of apples, pears, and nuts that hang heavy on the trees ready to be picked. Others are awaiting the resplendent... Read More
9 Lakes, Lakes, Outdoors, social distancing
Public Lands Day 2020: So Much to Appreciate
Public Lands Day marks a day annually to appreciate the work of visionaries who set aside public lands for current and future generations to enjoy. Two of the most sweeping bills impacting public land access were passed almost one hundred years apart- The National Parks and the 2020 Great American Outdoors Act. The scenic beauty... Read More
9 Lakes, COVID Safe vacations, dining, Getaways, Music, Outdoors, social distancing
Late Summer Getaways in East Tennessee
COVID has impacted events across the 9 Lakes region. In your quest for pandemic-proof plans, armchair travel isn’t your only option. East Tennessee boasts a diverse landscape of lakes, mountains, and foothills. Late summer is sure to bring warm days and cooling evenings. Lace-up your shoes and find out what’s going on in the 9... Read More
9 Lakes, dining, Outdoors, social distancing
Fun Ideas for Dining Out in this Time of Social Distancing
COVID 19’s social distancing protocols in the 9 Lakes Region has generated some fun ideas for changing up your routine for dining out. Mini outdoor picnic areas are flourishing in the 9Lakes due to COVID. Take out used to be limited to pizza and Chinese food, but today, the sky is the limit. Yep, you... Read More
9 Lakes, family holidays, Getaways, National Parks, Stargazing
Camping Adventures in East Tennessee
Don’t let the summer slip away without exploring a camping adventure in the 9 Lakes of East Tennessee. Camping offers a wealth of outdoor activities ranging from waterfall hikes to stargazing. For families and outdoor enthusiasts, there is nothing quite like a day filled with activities followed by an evening around the campfire. As the... Read More