Description - The East Tennessee Travel Region is composed of the eastern third of the state and has the most recreational locations and activities of the three regions. Within this region is the David Crockett Birthplace State Park and the Cherokee National Forest, as well as the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.
Attractions
- The many large waterways of this region bring outdoor enthusiasts from the southern and midatlantic areas of the country. The Ocoee River, the Big South Fork River and the Obed offer incredible paddling sport opportunities. Also within these recreation areas visitors will find hiking trails, biking trails, campgrounds and picnic grounds. Twenty state parks, in addition to Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Cherokee National Forest, are open to the public in eastern Tennessee. Attractions at these sites include natural, cultural and historical features.
Recreation - This region offers all outdoor activities including, backpacking, whitewater paddling sports, hiking, biking, camping and picnicking. Visitors will also find opportunities for viewing historical sites, exhibits and interpretive signs at various natural areas. Climate - Tennessee has a temperate climate with short, mild winters. The average annual snowfall for the state is 12 inches. Spring comes in early March bringing flowering trees and shrubs, and warmer weather. Spring temperatures average between 45 and 70 degrees F. Summers full force arrives in the region by mid May, bringing warm weather and higher humidity. The mountains of eastern Tennessee are a great place to escape the hot summer temperatures as the higher elevation cools the air slightly. Cooling fall temperatures bring crisp air and brilliant foliage colors. Mid to late October is a good time to visit the region to experience the fall color change. Location -
This travel region encompasses the eastern portion of the state from Chattanooga to the Big South Fork National Recreational Area. Its eastern boundary is the border with North Carolina. All activity areas are accessible within a days car ride of Knoxville. The major roadway through the area is Interstate 40, which leads westward from Kingsport to Knoxville. Interstate 75 leads southward through this region from Kentucky to Chattanooga.
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