East Tennessee Crossing Byway offers a breathtaking journey through the Appalachian Mountains, showcasing East Tennessee’s natural beauty. As you travel this scenic route, you’ll encounter several mountain ranges, featuring misty peaks and diverse wildlife. Enjoy hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks along the way.

Clinch Mountain and Appalachian Range

Clinch Mountain lies in the ridge-and-valley section of the Appalachian Mountains and provides stunning vistas. Not to miss is the Veterans Overlook Memorial in Bean Station, which is dedicated to Grainger County veterans and all veterans who served. The byway also passes through charming mountain towns, rich with local culture, history, and hospitality, featuring historic landmarks, quaint shops, and eateries.

Cumberland Mountains and the Gap

The historic Cumberland Gap features a natural pass through the Cumberland Mountains that was once a vital gateway for early settlers moving westward. Today, it’s a picturesque spot rich in history and natural beauty. Cumberland Gap National Historical Park offers visitors a chance to explore the rugged terrain and learn about the significant role this region played in American history. Trails winding through the park provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape and opportunities to spot diverse wildlife.

Cumberland Gap National Historic Park and Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The byway serves as a gateway to two of the most celebrated national parks in the United States –  the 24,000 acre Cumberland Gap National Historic Park and Great Smoky Mountains National Park, spanning more than 800 square miles. This scenic route offers a journey through the heart of the Appalachian region, providing travelers with gorgeous vistas and a treasure trove of natural wonders. Great Smoky Mountain National Park bisects the Cherokee National Forest, the only national forest in Tennessee.

Whether you’re hiking through lush forests, discovering hidden waterfalls, or taking in panoramic mountain views, both of the parks offer an unparalleled outdoor experience. Each season reveals the parks’ unique beauty with vibrant wildflowers in spring, lush greenery in summer, brilliant foliage in autumn, and snow-covered peaks in winter. No matter when you visit, the mountains promise an unforgettable experience in one of the country’s most picturesque regions.