9 Lakes, National Parks, Outdoors, Stargazing
August is the Month for Vertical Adventures
August skies in the 9 Lakes always seem to be bluer, the sunsets are more dramatic, and the night skies clearer, making it the perfect month for “sky high” adventures. Here are some of our favorite ways to get vertical: Located in the heart of downtown, the Gatlinburg SkyBridge is the longest suspension bridge in... Read More
Getaways, Lodging, motorcycles, National Parks, road trip, travel planning
A Smoky Mountain Summer Vacation- Plan for Fun
The Smokies are a popular summer destination for families and for outdoor adventurers. One of the questions we often answer is “where should I stay?” To answer this question, you need to know what activities you want close by. Are you someone who wants to be close to shopping and restaurants? Or are you someone... Read More
National Parks, paddling, Water Trails
Ride of a Lifetime- Whitewater Season is Open
The powerful natural force of water provided the ride of a lifetime on the whitewater rivers of East Tennessee. Depending on your appetite for thrills and spills, your options can be “controlled release” or “wild and free.” Canoes, kayaks, duckies, rafts, and tubes are your other choice. The season for white water is now open,... Read More
9 Lakes, Area Events, fall foliage, family holidays, National Parks, things to do
Sky High Adventures in the 9 Lakes
August skies in the 9 Lakes always seem to be bluer and the sunsets are more dramatic. making this the perfect month for “sky high” adventures. Here are some of our favorite ways to get vertical: Located in the heart of downtown, the Gatlinburg SkyBridge is the longest suspension bridge in North America. It spans... Read More
9 Lakes, dining, downtowns, history, moonshine, National Parks
Newport, TN – A Smoky Mountain Culinary Legacy and Adventure
Adventure abounds in the Great Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee. Wild rivers, majestic mountains and dense forests lure millions of people to the region each year. One often overlooked gateway community to the Smoky Mountains is Newport, a town steeped in an culinary history that transcends time and the imagination. Moonshine, the moon pie, canned... Read More
9 Lakes, Area Events, bike trails, National Parks, Trails
Peddling Your Way to Adventure
May is National Bike Month and the 9 Lakes Region is a top bike destination for road to mountain gravity riders. Pedaling through the region is a great way to explore the countryside and scenic overlooks, not to mention a less expensive way to travel. For the cycling adventurists, the beauty and terrain of the... 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, 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
9 Lakes, Cultural Influences, history, Lakes, National Parks, Outdoors, Trails
Did You Know? Fun Facts from the 9 Lakes
We love getting out and talking to people about the history of the 9 Lakes. The region was shaped by its mountains and rivers, and by the people who settled this slice of Appalachia. Daniel Boone explored this part of Tennessee to scout land for settlements. As early as the 1840’s, speculators were buying large... Read More
9 Lakes, family holidays, Getaways, Lodging, National Parks
Tips to Book a Great Vacation Rental
Guest Post: L Campos Planning for a vacation is stressful — there’s no doubt about that. You have to find the best deals on travel, accommodations, and plan your itinerary, all while trying to save as much money as possible. Once everything is planned, nothing ruins your excitement more than getting to your vacation rental... Read More