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,…
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…
Calling all cowboys and cowgirls — your next unforgettable family adventure is waiting in the mountains of East Tennessee. If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting a real dude ranch, now is the perfect time to saddle up and experience the charm of French Broad Outpost Ranch. Nestled in the scenic mountains near the Great Smoky…
June 20 marked the official beginning of summer with its promise of long days and evenings of vivid sunsets. Recall your favorite childhood memories of summertime. Is it the sweetness of wading barefoot through a cold creek, just picked blackberries, toasty marshmallows over a camp fire, or the simple pleasure of packing a picnic basket…
Changing times have reshaped the way many families plan vacations. Instead of crowded tourist destinations and long-distance travel, more travelers are discovering the value of affordable staycations and close-to-home adventures. Fortunately, Tennessee’s 9 Lakes Region offers the perfect mix of scenic beauty, outdoor recreation, history, and small-town charm for an unforgettable getaway without going far…
Summer farm stands are the quintessential hallmark of the bounty of summer. Blue skies and lake play build up an appetite for treats such as fresh berry pie, tomato sandwiches, ice cold watermelon, and corn on the cob. While our lives have changed due to COVID 19, the pleasure of eating local and fresh has…
The COVID 19 pandemic has altered the normal busy spring schedule in the 9 Lakes region. State governments have implored us to stay apart to stay safe. Campgrounds have closed and spring events have been cancelled or rescheduled. What is not closed is the opportunity to dream and plan. The 9 Lakes region shares a…
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…
The 9 Lakes tourism partners are recognized champions for rolling up their sleeves to protect the beauty of public lands and waterways found in East Tennessee. Working with local communities, businesses, Keep America Beautiful affiliates, and non-profits, partners take to the trails, lakes, and rivers to improve wildlife habitats and remove debris from shorelines and…
Get out and play on New Year’s Day at one of these healthy and fun planned activities that will get you off the couch and start your year off with good health. New traditions and new resolutions are waiting: Bike: Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area is hosting their annual Mail Run mountain…
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