Four Tips for navigating your way around Nine Lakes

The Nine Lakes region of East Tennessee is a stunning natural paradise that has everything you need for a wholesome, rejuvenating escape. This amazing area consists of nine man-made reservoirs, covering a proposed area of 4,064-square miles. There’s an incredibly diverse mix of outdoor activities, small-town charm, and Appalachian culture to immerse yourselves in, but you’ll likely need a vehicle to enjoy as much of it as possible on your trip.

Whether you’re boating, hiking, fishing, or road-tripping, the best way to make the most of every moment is to have a solid plan for navigating between each uniquely scenic spot. Here are four tips to help you enjoy a seamless adventure in the Nine Lakes region of Tennessee.

Use multiple maps and take the scenic route

The terrain around Nine Lakes is nothing short of beautiful, but it can also be a somewhat confusing maze of winding backroads, peninsulas, and lake arms. GPS can be spotty, especially in the more rural areas or deep hollers, so it’s best to have a paper map to hand as a backup or stop in at a visitors center to pick one up before you head out.

It’s also a good idea to brave the more scenic routes. While the interstates will get you across the region quickly, Tennessee has five scenic national byways that wind around the lakes and are well worth the additional time if you’re enjoying a road trip here. Try the East Tennessee Crossing Byway for incredible views of Cherokee Lake, Douglas Lake, and Norris Lake. Whether you stop for a lakeside picnic or dip into the water for a spot of fishing, you’ll be surrounded by the natural rugged beauty of this gorgeous region.

Plan ahead for fuel and river levels

Gas stations can be sparse around the more remote lakes, especially near South Holston or parts of Boone. If you’re venturing out for a full day on the water or driving into the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, be sure to top up your tank beforehand.

And if you’re planning to paddle, fish, or play anywhere downstream of a dam, be sure to check the Tennessee Valley Authority’s (TVA) water release schedule first. These can change the water flow significantly – and you’ll need to time your trip if you want to make the most of the whitewater. You can easily check the latest info on the TVA’s website to make sure you have the most fun on the lake.

Make time for the small towns

The allure of Nine Lakes doesn’t end with its waters, it’s also surrounded by historic towns like Morristown, Rocky Top (formerly known as Coal Creek), and Dandridge. These are ideal for antique shopping, southern cuisine, and learning about the history of East Tennessee. You may even stumble upon a lakeside festival or make new friends with the locals. Walking through the towns is always an adventure, so be sure to leave time in your schedule off the water to explore the hidden cultural gems around each lake.

It’s worth noting that Tennessee weather is known to change rapidly, especially in the valleys. But, if your sunny morning turns into a stormy afternoon, detouring to a small town will allow you to cosy-up with a hearty plate of country ham, fried chicken, or a fresh seafood platter as you wait out the rain.

Check launch sites carefully

Each lake has multiple public and private boat ramps, but not all are created equal. Some are well-paved with picnic spots and bathrooms, while others are nothing more than a gravel slope. Especially if you’re travelling with a mobility restriction or are a disabled person, be sure to check ahead of time what facilities each launch site offers on the TVA map or via a website such as LakeLubbers.

Nine Lakes is a beautiful region that everyone should be able to enjoy, and there are plenty of accessible car rentals and water-sports service providers in the area. The Tennessee State Parks website has useful accessibility guides for each of the state parks to help you locate wheelchair-friendly paths, accessible viewing points, and other essential facilities.

Author bio: Kai Thomspon

As an avid traveller who is always looking for new places to explore, Kai loves to share his stories and helpful travel advice with others who can’t stay in one place for too long. With his trusty converted van and kayak, he is currently exploring America.