Great Smoky Mountains
Forming the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, the Great Smoky Mountains contain the most visited national park in America. The mountains feature over 800 miles of trails, hiking and camping, as well as over 700 miles of streams to fish in. If you want something a little different, you can also check out horseback riding and waterfall exploring. LeConte Lodge, which has been in operation since 1926, is a great place to stay if you like the rustic feel. The lodge has no electricity or showers. However, it does feature flush toilets, dinner and breakfast.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
107 Park Headquarters Rd.
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
(865) 436-1200
nps.gov
Ruby Falls
An 145-foot waterfall that pumps 300 gallons of water per minute into a pool, Ruby Falls is a gorgeous sight, whether you like to hike, or just like to take in the scenery. The mile-long walk is short enough so that beginners and children will also be able to take part in the fun. Located on Lookout Mountain, a glass-front elevator will take you 1,120 feet into the mountain. After arriving in the pitch black, the waterfalls are then lit up with a gorgeous lighting display.
Ruby Falls
1720 South Scenic Hwy
Chattanooga, TN 37409
(423) 821-2544
rubyfalls.com
Bell Witch Cave & Cabin
The Bell Witch, also known locally as "Kate," is the legend of a witch that terrorized the home of John Bell and his family in the early 1800's. The story is that Kate did not want John to live and did not want John's daughter to marry a local boy, though she never said why. Kate got her wish, as John Bell did pass, and soon after, his daughter broke off her engagement. Bell Witch Cabin and Cave offers a tour featuring Kate and hear the story for yourself. The cabin is a replica, but has some things from the original inside of it. People claim that they can see the witch's face inside of the cave.
Bell Witch Cave and Cabin
430 Keysburg Rd.
Adams, TN 37010
(615) 696-3055
bellwitchcave.com
Mud Island River Park
Best known for their river walks, Mud Island is a fascinating and unique stop in the state of Tennessee. The River Walk is a five-block walk that replicates 1,000 miles of the Mississippi River from Cairo, Illinois to New Orleans, Louisiana. Thirty inches of the walk are equal to one mile of the actual river. The walk shows historical events and geographical ranges of the river. The walk ends at a model of the Gulf of Mexico, which you can float around in with the help of a rented canoe or kayak. Special events include Halloween on the Island, a family-friendly event.
Mud Island River Park
125 North Front St.
Memphis, TN 38103
(901) 576-7241
mudisland.com
