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Southeastern Tennessee is a captivating region, marked by its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and unique cultural identity. Located along the border with Georgia and North Carolina, this part of Tennessee offers a mix of mountain views, fertile valleys, picturesque towns, and a rich heritage shaped by both Native American and settler cultures. The area also features a variety of outdoor activities, making it a prime destination for nature lovers, history buffs, and those looking to experience a slower pace of life.

Here’s a closer look at what makes Southeastern Tennessee distinctive:

Geography and Natural Beauty

• Great Smoky Mountains and Cumberland Plateau: Southeastern Tennessee is home to parts of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited national park in the U.S. The Cumberland Plateau also stretches into the region, offering dramatic cliff faces, rolling hills, and deep river gorges. The area’s mountainous terrain provides breathtaking views, particularly in areas like Lookout Mountain and Signal Mountain, both offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding valleys and cities.

• Chattanooga Valley: The region is defined by the Tennessee River, which cuts through the valley, creating a lush, fertile area perfect for outdoor activities. The river also runs through Chattanooga, Tennessee's fourth-largest city, and is an important feature in the region's landscape.

• Lakes and Waterways: Southeastern Tennessee has numerous lakes and rivers that offer opportunities for boating, fishing, and water sports, including Chickamauga Lake, Nickajack Lake, and the Tennessee River. Fall Creek Falls State Park, one of the largest state parks in Tennessee, is home to the spectacular Fall Creek Falls, a 256-foot waterfall.

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The Copperhill area, located in Polk County includes Ocoee, Conasauga, Ducktown, Benton and Delano

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Rafting on the Ocoee River

Ducktown Basin Museum located on the Burra Burra Mine Site

Hiwassee River-Rail Adventure, Copperhill, TN and McCaysville, TN

Kayaking the Ocoee River

Chilhowee Mountain Overlook, Benton, TN