9 Lakes, driving trails, family holidays, Getaways, motorcycles
Road Trips: Big Adventure, Small Budget
Who doesn’t remember those fun family or weekend road trips? Packing the car, choosing a destination, and letting the open road wash over you. The thrill of a road trip is half-scenery and half-chance. Immersed in the scenery, visitors can discover new stops and attractions. If you’re lucky, a seemingly inconvenient detour leads us into... Read More
9 Lakes, driving trails, Getaways, history, motorcycles, National Parks, Trails
Three New National Scenic Byways to Discover
On January 19, 2021, the US Department of Transportation announced that three roads in the 9 Lakes Region have been designated as National Scenic Byways. Many travelers are already familiar with Newfound Gap Road through the Smokies and the Norris Freeway in Anderson County. The third and much lesser known route to discover is the... 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, driving trails
Affordable and Fun Summer Stay Vacations
Changing times have changed many of our usual vacation plans. Instead of traveling away to crowded destinations, we are being urged to stay home and stay apart. Summer vacation can still be lots of fun and very affordable if you look. Consider opting for a Staycation and check out all the recreational and cultural sites... Read More
9 Lakes, Area Events, driving trails, Outdoors, Trails
It’s a Spring Thing- Get Outdoors
As sure as wild onions and daffodils pop up during spring in the 9 Lakes Region, fun outdoor activities are also popping up. Spring is a great time to play in the 9 Lakes. Shake off the winter blues and get outdoors. Expect daylight average temperatures to be in the upper 60s and lower 70s,... Read More
9 Lakes, downtowns, driving trails, history, Lakes, National Parks
Day-tripping- One National Park, Two Lakes and Three Historic Towns.
The 9 Lakes of East Tennessee offers up some wonderful day trips for travelers who want to experience more. The region is not only easily drivable, but most of the parks, lakes, and downtowns are linked together by scenic roads that will make you want to grab your camera for a photo. Most day trips... Read More
9 Lakes, Agritourism, B&B, Cabins, driving trails, Getaways, Houseboats, Lakes, Lodging, OHV, Trails, Wine
Vacation Planning 101 in the 9 Lakes of East Tennessee
Did you know that the 9 Lakes is home to some of the best lakes, paddling, hiking, and camping in Tennessee? Only a short drive from metro Chicago, Cincinnati, DC, Atlanta, and Richmond (VA), the region is ideal for a long weekend or week-long destination vacation. Things to consider: Affordability- With so many lodging choices,... Read More
9 Lakes, driving trails
Classic Cars and Cruise-ins
When the warm weather arrives in the 9 Lakes Region, the landscape becomes alive with beautiful spring flowers, outdoor events, and day trippers enjoying scenic drives. A sure bet in the region are classic cars displayed at multiple cruise- ins and events, attracting antique car enthusiasts to share stories and swap parts. While you are... Read More
9 Lakes, driving trails, Lakes, motorcycles, National Parks, Outdoors
Abundance by the Numbers
When Spanish Explorer, Hernando DeSoto set out on his expedition in modern day southeastern United States seeking riches and a passage to China, he may not have realized the abundance of natural beauty that he was seeing in the 9 Lakes region. What he did recognize was an abundance of food, fresh water, pearls, precious... Read More