50 “Smiles” Per Hour

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park area is the perfect place to tap your feet to nature’s beat. Take a leisurely hike along a mountain stream and catch a glimpse of a black bear in one of the four state or national forests: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cherokee National Forest, Appalachian Trail and the Martha Sundquist State Forest. However, if you have the need for speed, our curvy roads are perfect for that motorcycle trip you’ve been craving. From gentle to challenging, you’ll find the route that is perfect for you.

Stop by the State Welcome Center or the Cocke County Tourism/Chamber Office (433 B Prospect Ave. in Newport) for a copy of the “Long and Winding Road.” This jewel of a brochure is produced by the regional tourism partnership of Middle East Tennessee counties and offers five motorcycle routes crisscrossing 16 counties in the East Tennessee region. The Trails vary in length and skill level, and highlights over 150 attractions, unique restaurants, and lodging facilities.

Rafting is featured on the “Still Water to White Water” Trail that hugs the lake shorelines and follows the original Cherokee Warrior’s Path across Clinch Mountain, the Dixie Highway of the Civil War period, and the Thunder Road of moonshine lore.