Scenic Drives, Beautiful Hikes, and Historic Sites
While you’re on your Smoky Mountain vacation, we hope you take a moment to take in the sights of the area. Our picturesque landscapes are worth exploring whether it’s by foot, bike, or vehicle, and the history surrounding the area will leave you wanting to learn more.
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Driving Trails
Take in the views on the scenic byways of Appalachia.
Hiking
Dive into nature and explore the Smokies.
Historical Sites
Learn more about the history of the area.
Experience the Smokies & East Tennessee Like Never Before
Great Smoky Mountain Eco Tours
While a drive through the Smokies is always nice, being a passenger on that ride has it’s benefits when it comes to taking in the scenery.
Let Great Smoky Mountain Eco Tours be your driver as they take you on a tour of the area. They provide an in-depth look at the history, culture, flora, & fauna of the Great Smoky Mountains.
East Tennessee Driving Trails
There are many scenic driving trails to enjoy in and around Jefferson County, which are all part of the state’s Discover Tennessee Trails & Byways program. Car and motorcycle enthusiasts appreciate the off-the-beaten paths and natural beauty. With much less traffic, small towns and red lights provide for a more relaxing road trip experience. The Tennessee Trails and Byways program offers a few different driving trails that all traverse Jefferson County, while providing an authentic historical and cultural experience.
Rocky Top Trail
Smoky peaks to crafts and creeks
This trail will lead you through the Smoky Mountains to the foothills of East Tennessee. Enjoy scenic views and stops at unique places such as the Bush Beans Visitor Center and historic Dandridge, TN, where you can explore boutiques, restaurants, the Jefferson County Courthouse Museum and Archives, and more!
Sunny Side Trail
Unique sites, roadside attractions, and local gems
Keep on the Sunny Side Trail and make your way through the heart of East Tennessee! This trail will take you on the backroads of Appalachia where you’ll discover the rich history of our small towns and country lanes. Starting off in Gatlinburg, TN you will make your way to Jefferson County and discover the roads that lead to Douglas and Cherokee Lakes, Historic Dandridge, White Pine, and Jefferson City, TN.
White Lightning Trail
Discover Thunder Road travelled by the moonshiners during prohibition
East Tennessee is rich in history and there is nothing more infamous as the history of the prohibition-era. This trail weaves its way along the Moonshine-Running Corridor through the East Tennessee Valley, from the Cumberland Gap to the foothills of the Smoky Mountains. Discover the roads less traveled where moonshiners carried their wears. You’ll discover the Town of White Pine where barns hid gas pumps for “runners” to make pit stops, and in Dandridge, TN, where the worlds largest moonshine still ever was discovered by authorities in 1973! Stop in and visit the Historic Jefferson County Courthouse Museum and Archives to see another old moonshine still that was used during in the prohibition era.
East Tennessee Crossing National Scenic Byway
Travel the road taken by Native Americans and pioneers
Also known as Highway 25E, the East Tennessee Crossing byway stretches 83 miles in East Tennessee from the Cumberland Gap to Cherokee National Forest. Since prehistoric times, the span has been used by pioneer travelers, hunters, and tourists, alike. The route is also known has the Cherokee Warriors’ Path and was used by Native Americans for a variety of activities.
Hiking in the Smokies
Jefferson County is a short drive to many East Tennessee hiking trails and destinations. Some of the most popular hikes near our area include Alum Cave, Andrew’s Bald, Rainbow Falls, and Chimney Tops; however, the Great Smoky Mountains are home to 150 official hiking trails.
Historical Sites & Markers in Jefferson County
Jefferson County was established over 230 years ago, but people have lived in here dating back to before the Revolutionary War. Our area is rich in history; and we hope during your stay with us, you take a moment to learn more about Jefferson County.
Glenmore Mansion
“A true Victorian treasure” offering seasonal tours, a Spring Garden Market, and Christmas Candlelight Tours.
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The Dike that Saved Dandridge
Located right off of Historic Downtown Dandridge see the landform that saved the town!
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Bush Family Homestead
Explore where a secret family recipe was the beginning of a worldwide name.
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TVA Dams
Two lakes each with a Tennessee Valley Authority dam that are quite the sites to see.
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Historic Churches
Our county is full of beautiful historic churches along scenic byways.
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Tennessee's Second Oldest City
Located right off of Historic Downtown Dandridge see the landform that saved the town!
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Historic Mossy Creek Station
A go-to spot for family-friendly fun with a history of growth and community.
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Jefferson County Courthouse
A staple of our county seat since 1845, our courthouse nows holds a county museum and records dating back to 1792.
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Battle of Dandridge
See the site of a Civil War battle that took place in our county.
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Early Taverns of Jefferson County
In the early days of our county, the taverns provided shelter for those traveling through our area.
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Quilt Squares of Jefferson County
Take a drive through the county & you’ll see some beautiful sites: the quilt squares of Appalachia.
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Polly & Davy Crockett Marriage Site
Did you know that Davy Crockett called the Jefferson County area home in his younger years?
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Lakeside News
Appalachian Quilt Squares in the Lakeside of the Smokies
Follow the quilt square trail to explore East Tennessee in a new way. Learn about the history of East TN, enjoy views of the Smoky Mountains, and visit new places during your journey.
The 2023 Spirit of Nations Powwow
Spirit of Nations Powwow to Celebrate Native Voices In recognition of the “Celebrate Native Voices” theme of the 2023 Spirit of Nations powwow, Jefferson County Mayor Mark Potts has issued a proclamation declaring Saturday, March 25th, as “Celebrate Native...
Holiday Getaway to the Lakeside of the Smokies
The Lakeside of the Smokies is a charming and beautiful area in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains. It’s a great vacation destination year round, even when it’s cold outside. Lake views, luxury lodging, and the laid-back, small-town vibe make for a relaxing holiday...
