East Tennessee
East Tennessee’s natural beauty draws visitors from around the world. Filled with rugged mountains, rolling farmlands, and deep, wild river gorges, the recreational possibilities are endless in this corner of Tennessee! Outdoor enthusiasts can explore national forests, recreation areas, state parks and scenic rivers by foot, horseback, mountain bike or watercraft. The area is well known for its world-class whitewater rivers and scenic overlooks. Adrenaline seekers can take on the Olympic Course and Class III-IV rapids with a guided rafting trip on the Ocoee River, zip through blue skies and green canopy on a guided tour, kayak/raft the Nantahala, or kayak/tube the Hiwassee. Mountain bike rentals and guided rides are available near the Ocoee whitewater center. Rough it by going backpacking on the Benton MacKaye Trail or find a quiet campsite at Harrison Bay or Chester Frost near Chattanooga or further out at Gee Creek or Chilhowee in the Cherokee National Forest.