The interstates take us to some fantastic places, but let us not forget the old country roads that still hide a plethora of incredible hidden gems in Tennessee. After all, some of the best places are where you cannot find cell service. We want to take you to some of the best East Tennessee hikes. Tennessee is filled with natural beauty all around us, and we highly recommend taking in this incredible countryside. Maybe it's time to drive away from the city and find some of our state's most wonderful views and waterfalls on this rural road trip. Make sure you have plenty of the best road trip snacks and then let's get ready to see the lesser-visited destinations right here in Tennessee. I can tell you some of these hikes still rank up there with some of our best adventures to date.
This trip will take you down back roads and is remote but still accessible for most people in Eastern Tennessee. These are just some of the great things you can find on the road less traveled.
Be sure to check out the itinerary for the full trip and directions. The total driving time is 2 hours and 15 minutes, and you will traverse a little over 80 miles. These hikes have beautiful views and great waterfalls. You will want to stretch this trip into two or even three days to fit everything in. If you are coming from far away and need a place to stay along the way check out the different hotels along the trip to find the perfect one for you. So let's hop in the car to see some hidden gems in Tennessee.
Roan Mountain is not a hidden gem per se, but is a must for anyone in Eastern Tennessee. Head on up to Carvers Gap; this location is right on the border with North Carolina. You already start high up at around 5,000 feet in elevation in the parking lot. Hike up a grassy hill and into a forest. Soon you will be greeted by the ridgeline of the mountain. You can hike along this mountain for quite a distance. Sweeping views of the large mountain ranges are on both sides of you during your travels. This is said to be the prettiest spot on the Appalachian Trail, and you will not want to miss it. There are several ways to experience the trail depending on the time and length you want to accomplish. Make sure you get all the trail info you need on AllTrails of the Grassy Ridge Trail before you go. There are three balds - all with amazing views - but if you are short on time, at least make it to the first one, which is called Round Bald. You will not be disappointed. This still remains one of my favorite hikes in East Tennessee and is beautiful all year long. If you would like to see what the fantastic view looks like please watch this Adventuring in the Moment video then my hope is that it inspires you to get out and do it yourself.
Red Fork Falls is located way in the mountains and doesn't even have a trailhead sign so this is definitely one of those hidden gems in Tennessee. This is only a .6-mile trail with 164 feet of elevation gain. Do not be fooled by the numbers - this trail is steep. Red Fork Falls is still fairly doable, but just know it can get very wet and the rocks are very slippery. It has been the site of many rescues so make sure you are prepared before you attempt this hike. That being said, the trail is a blast and will quickly lead to a beautiful waterfall with three sections. The top section is more like a stream with a little waterfall, but with the lush forest and natural beauty all around it, this makes for a peaceful spot. Heading on down to the second section of the waterfall, you will be greeted with a stunning flow of water falling straight down into the pool below. Climbing on the rocks, you will be able to see a natural waterslide carved into the rock itself. The last section is the calmest part, allowing a great stop to take a break and dip your feet in the water. A helpful tool is to have the map for Red Fork Falls from AllTrails. When we went on this trail it ended up being a wild and crazy adventure one that we still talk about after all this time so make sure to check out the Adventuring in the Moment video.
Martin’s Creek Falls is a beautiful waterfall hike with little effort. This is a 2-mile hike with 364 feet of elevation gain, and the only difficult part is traversing down to the falls. The waterfall itself is a beautiful cascading fall splashing upon jagged rocks. It will only take you about an hour to complete and is a perfect place for a quick adventure. There are a few wrong turns you can take for this trail so it is helpful to have a map of Martin Creek Falls from AllTrails before you go. We did this trail in the winter and got lost, which was a funny twist to our excursion but made it that much more memorable. Check out that trip along with the beauty of this waterfall in the snow with our Adventuring in the Moment video.
This simple trail does not consist of hard scrambling but gives way to sweeping views. The Cherokee Mountain Road is a 2.9-mile loop hike with 754 feet of elevation gain and will mostly be following an old dirt road on a mountain. However, the biggest attraction is the incredible views you can have of the Cherokee Mountains. Also, be on the lookout under your feet for salamanders or unique butterflies. This trail is the closest you will get to civilization because it is right near Johnson City. However, it still remains relatively unknown so it is a classic example for hidden gems in Tennessee.
Here's one more waterfall trail to round off this amazing road trip. This one is a 2.4-mile out-and-back hike with 623 feet of elevation gain. In my experience, the first part of the trail is very easy as you walk down a very open rocky path. Then you turn and go deeper into the forest for more of that classic Tennessee trail look we all love. Lush vegetation and a beautiful stream will be following you the whole way up to the falls. Along the way, you can pass a bridge, climb up rock steps, and cross a stream. Once you arrive at Margarette Falls, you will be greeted with a magnificent waterfall cascading down jagged rocks. This little oasis takes some effort to get to, but when you do, it's time to take off your shoes, dip your feet in the water, and watch the waterfall into the clear pool below. Or you can be like me and just fall right into Magarette Falls by accident. Check out not only the funny fall into the pool but see this amazing hike with another Adventuring in the Moment video!
This trip takes you through some pretty amazing back roads with stunning views of mountains everywhere you turn. It is one trip we highly recommend for East Tennessee hikes. Feel free to add extra stops or hikes you want to suit your own adventure. These country roads may not be too far from civilization, but when you travel out they feel like a million miles away. what are some of your favorite hidden gems in Tennessee? let us know in the comments below.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
There is nothing quite like walking through charming small towns in Tennessee. Dripping with nostalgia, your mood changes as you take in the sights and sounds. I find the pride of the locals and the historical nature of these places to be such a breath of fresh air from busy cities. Where you walk are the very streets that many have gone before, and the lure of these places is found in unexpected exploration. Finding a unique shop, eating at a locally loved restaurant, or learning about the past are all draws that make our small towns irresistible.
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With this road trip, you could do it all in one day but I would suggest taking a couple of days to really get the most out of each location. The trip will take you less than two and a half hours of driving time in total, with very little time between each town. We made a customizable map to help you along on your journey and feel free to adapt it in any way you need.
Bell Buckle is always near the top of my list when it comes to charming towns. This tiny place packs so much life within its borders, no matter what you may be looking for. There are many festivals throughout the year, including the highly anticipated RC Cola and Moon Pie Festival. The culture of Bell Buckle is loaded with artistic expression, from murals to crafters just about everywhere you look. Enjoy the quaint downtown filled with interesting shops, and don’t forget to stop at the Bell Buckle Cafe for a good homecooked meal. You can easily spend a good amount of time exploring, but be forewarned, if you visit, you might be tempted to make this charming small town your new home.
Wartrace is a peaceful little town just south of Bell Buckle and is the perfect location for animal lovers and history buffs. Wartrace is home to the Tennessee Walking Horse, which locals bred for smooth riding during the 1920s. You can witness these lovable horses but you can also learn all about this world-famous creature by visiting the Tennessee Walking Horse National Museum. Even if you aren’t interested in agriculture history or this town's claim to fame, at least stop by Granny Fishes House for some fried seafood.
Lynchburg is a classic example of a small Tennessee town that is world-famous but remains humble. This is home to the Jack Daniels Distillery, where you can tour and learn all about the famous whisky that put this town on the map. Funny enough, this quaint little town is located in a dry county. If you are splitting up your trip, then this could be a good stopping point for the night. For a place to sleep for the night, book a stay in a converted farm silo. There are two unique stays on the same property, the more masculine style is called The Duke and Dolly is fitting for a southern bell. Before you are lulled to sleep in this countryside getaway, make sure to feast on some smoked meats at Barrel House BBQ.
Sewanee is a small college town that is surrounded by glorious wilderness. You can tell that the town takes pride in its university, and for good reason, the property is gorgeous! The University of the South looks like a castle with some of the most fascinating architecture I have ever seen. Take your time to stroll around the campus and take in the stunning sights. To enjoy Sewanee is to get out into the forest for a little exploration. The Sewanee Natural Bridge is my number one recommendation, it is a towering rocky wonder and it is located just a staircase away from the trailhead.
Beersheba Springs is our last stop on this list, and although it is a rural area, I had to include it for its abundance of outdoor activities. I love a good hike, and there are plenty of great ones hidden in the wilderness of Beersheba Springs. Savage Gulf State Park is filled with hidden gems that are just waiting to be explored. My two favorites are Stone Door and Greeter Falls. This park offers sprawling mountainous views, unique rock formations, and wonderful waterfalls. Take the afternoon or spend a full day adventuring in this state park.
Who is ready to hit the road now? Don’t forget to bring some good road trip snacks and plan ahead to make the most of this glorious small-town road trip. If you love history, animals, charming downtowns, shopping, amazing food, unique stays, hikes, and castles this is one packed tour that will make you fall in love with our rural Tennessee landscape.
