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
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Your Ultimate Guide to Handling Sickness While Traveling
Traveling can be an exciting and enriching experience, but nothing can put a damper on your adventures quite like falling ill. Unfortunately, sickness doesn’t care about your travel plans, and it’s all too possible to come down with a bug while exploring unfamiliar places. The good news is that with some preparation and helpful tips,
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Birdwatching for Bald Eagles in the 9 Lakes Region
For many of us old-timers, the catastrophic decline of eagles in the wild meant that a sighting in Tennessee was a rare occurrence. Beginning in the late 1960’s and continuing to 1973, the use of pesticides had nearly wiped out the national population of eagles. Federal laws enacted that banned the use of the DDT
Read More9 Lakes, Area Events, conservation, things to do
Volunteers- Keeping the 9 Lakes Beautiful
“Volunteers don’t get paid, not because they’re worthless, but because they’re priceless.” ~ Sherry Anderson The 9 Lakes partners have a long history of service to the region. The Region has greatly benefited from the sweat equity of previous and current volunteers. When the Civilian Conservation Corps were brought to East Tennessee during the Great
Read More9 Lakes, fishing
Experience the Best Fishing in the Southeast
Fishing the 9 Lakes Region is a four seasons activity, and winter fishing absolutely needs to be on every angler’s bucket list. Quite simply, when the temperatures dip, fishing bites rise. Trout, small and large mouth bass, sauger, striped bass, walleye, crappie, and muskie are biting when the water temperatures drop into the 50’s. What
Read More9 Lakes, Area Events, family holidays
Merry and Bright – 12 Jolly Ideas to Light Up Your Holidays
The holiday season is a time to be shared with friends, family, and loved ones. There are so many sights and sounds to experience in the region. Small towns or the larger cities are made for mingling with neighbors and finding your inner child. While is doesn’t often snow at this time of year, there
Read More9 Lakes, downtowns, family holidays, shopping
Go Downtown- Shop Small, Shop Local
Our towns and cities are already decked out for the holidays. Shopping downtown supports local businesses, artisans, and supports the heritage of these communities. The 9 Lakes region is chock full of small downtowns offering up Appalachian treasures. Antiques, crafts, and locally produced culinary products are sure to please the most discriminating shopper. Gather your
Read MoreArea Events, family holidays, things to do
Festivals in East Tennessee
The holiday season is just starting to kick in and the region is getting in a festive mood. Events Not to Miss- Late Fall. Oct 30- Haunted Halloween Trail and Movie– Ancient Lore Village, S Knoxville Oct 30- 31- Haunted Tours at the Historic Scott County Jail- Huntsville. Reservations required for these special events. Nov
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Make your reservations NOW for the 2023 Season
It might seem early, but don’t miss these important dates and links to make your seasonal plans. Holiday weekends in the winter and summer fill up fast in the 9 Lakes Region. There really is something to the proverb “ the early bird gets the worm.” The seasonal TVA campgrounds reservation system will be
Read More9 Lakes, Area Events, Music
Music with Heart
Music With Heart Southern Appalachia has long been known for a culture that is ingrained with music that invokes heart-felt longing, love, and inspiration. There is perhaps no area of these great mountains and valleys more immersed in this musical heritage than Union County Tennessee. Union County natives have always had a heart for music.
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