Things to do near Northeast Tennessee

The world’s longest footpath, stretching 2,193.1 miles, crosses through Carter County. Roughly 60 of those miles wind through the mountains in Carter County, ranging in elevation from 1,750 feet along the shore line of Watauga Lake to 6,285 feet on Roan Mountain.

Catch a race or one of their many special events throughout the year. Black Bear Resort does not increase rates for lodging during race weeks.

Discover the numerous activities at Tweetsie Railroad where your imagination is free to run wild. Visitors will have the opportunity to go gold panning and gem mining, play arcade games, see the animals at Deer Park Zoo, take a ride on the train, play on the playground, enjoy the live entertainment, and so much more. If you're an animal lover you'll love Deer Park Zoo where you'll get the chance to see various different farm animals.

Watershed Trail (8 miles)- A single track trail in Hampton, recommended for intermediate level to advanced riders. Ranges from dirt and rock to flat and hills. This trail offers a good variety. Free and open to the public.

Located on the southern shore of Watauga Lake in Carter County. Large shade trees scattered throughout grassy areas provide a park setting for picnicking and sunbathing. In addition to picnic facilities there is a designated swim area in the lake.

This park was built around a re-creation of historic Fort Watauga at the head of the shoals on the Watauga River by the Watauga Historical Association to preserve one of the few remaining sites of the early frontier. Today, Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park is used as a backdrop for one of Tennessee’s longest running outdoor dramas, which runs each July.

The Doe: The Doe River is primarily a wet-weather stream, since it’s free flowing. Although it can be run in mid summer during years with plenty of rainfall. There is a 5.5 mile stretch between Hampton and Elizabethton that is rated class I and II. The Watauga: The friendly section of whitewater on the Watauga begins below the Wilbur Dam and winds past agricultural lands into the town of Elizabethton. An easy float trip, with a couple of class I and II rapids. Commercial rafting is available for portions of this 10 -mile section.

Ride the 700-foot water-landing zipline … get blasted by the BLOB … Swim in the LAKE with a white-sand beach, water volleyball and basketball, water slides, the LILY PAD crossing and AQUA PARK. See it all from the giant CLIMBING TOWER overlooking the lake! Also, GEM MINING ($10 a bag). A favorite for all … SCENIC RAIL EXCURSIONS into the Doe River Gorge on the historic tracks of the former East TN & Western NC Railroad.

Watauga Lake Winery: A blend of history and vision While our winery’s history is steeped in unexpected stories (just ask our staff) around a 1940s school house, we’re most proud to be a part of the Waterfront Group’s vision for this property: revitalizing this historical place and developing undiscovered land that deserves to be enjoyed by everyone, all while preserving its natural beauty. We hope our little winery by the lake will bring even more attention to the beauty of this area and gather even more friends and neighbors around a perfect glass of local wine.

Ready To Kick Your Outdoor Escapades Into High Gear? From pontoon boats to kayaks, paddle boards to tubes, we've got everything you need to get your Squatch on and make a splash in the pristine waters of Watauga Lake. Don't wait around for a sighting—secure your spot with Bigfoot Outdoor Company today and get ready to make some legendary memories!

Visit the State Line Drive-In for a movie experience. This theater has a wonderful family environment and shows movies May-September. To view current showings visit their website.

If you haven’t heard yet, we’re the quaint little gathering places by the river you’ve been searching for in East Tennessee! A place where you can come to enjoy the art of craft brewing with friends and family and embrace our small-town communities. Both of our locations offer a huge selection of beer, cider, mead and more on constant rotation to feature some amazing artisan brewers across the region and country.

Welcome to The Coffee Company Indulge in our delicious coffee and freshly baked pastries. Discover a cozy atmosphere perfect for your morning routine or afternoon break.

WATAUGA LAKE FISHING ADVENTURES Is a top notch guided fishing experience on Watauga Lake reservoir in Carter county Tennessee. Our fishing trips focus on trolling and casting for lake trout and various species. We offer half day fishing charter (4hr), Fish By The Hour, Trolling lessons and tours by the hour

Beautiful flowing river with multiple water falls and plunge pools, great swimming hole to bring the family for a quick hike and dip

Vacation Destination Vacation Destination Johnson County, Tennessee, is nestled in the rolling mountains and valleys of Northeast Tennessee. From mountain adventures on the trails of Doe Mountain to the excitement of Watauga Lake, Johnson County offers beautiful views, friendly people, and unique opportunities for family fun and relaxation.