Tennessee Road Trip, Off The Beaten Path

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Introduction

Tennessee is a state renowned for its vibrant music scene, iconic landmarks like Nashville and Memphis, and stunning natural beauty including the Great Smoky Mountains. However, beyond the well-trodden tourist routes lie countless hidden treasures waiting to be explored. From quaint small towns and scenic byways to historic sites off the beaten path, this road trip will take you through the lesser-known, yet equally captivating, corners of the Volunteer State.

In this guide, we’ll craft a memorable 10-day journey that uncovers Tennessee’s authentic spirit—its local communities, scenic landscapes, historic sites, and unique experiences away from the crowds. Grab your map, fill up your tank, and get ready to explore Tennessee like a true adventurer.

Day 1: Nashville to Bell Buckle and Lynchburg

Start in Nashville

While Nashville is famous for its country music, we’ll start our journey with a short drive south to experience some of Tennessee’s hidden local flavors.

Bell Buckle: Small Town Charm

Distance: 60 miles (~1.5 hours)

Highlights:

  • Bell Buckle Historic District: Stroll through this charming town with well-preserved 19th-century buildings.
  • Bell Buckle Café: Famous for its homemade pies and Southern hospitality.
  • The Webb School: A historic private school with beautiful campus views.
  • Bell Buckle Antique Mall: Vintage treasures and collectibles.

Experience: Attend the Bell Buckle Folk Festival if visiting in June—an authentic celebration of folk music, crafts, and local culture.

Lynchburg: The Home of Jack Daniel’s (but Offbeat)

Distance: 30 miles (~45 minutes)

While the Jack Daniel’s Distillery is a major attraction, explore some lesser-known sites:

  • Lynchburg General Store: A quirky shop full of Tennessee-made crafts.
  • Old City Cemetery: A peaceful historic cemetery with interesting stories.
  • Local eateries: Try some authentic Southern BBQ or country cooking at local diners.

Tip: Instead of the busy distillery tour, seek out local whiskey tastings at small-scale distilleries or visit nearby farms for a taste of rural Tennessee life.

Day 2: Lynchburg to Tullahoma and Monteagle

Tullahoma’s Hidden Gems

Distance: 70 miles (~1.5 hours)

Tullahoma is often overlooked but offers scenic beauty and local history:

  • South Jackson Civic Center: Offers local art and community events.
  • Old City Cemetery: Historic site with interesting stories.
  • Coffee and local shops: Visit local cafes for a taste of small-town Tennessee.

Scenic Drive to Monteagle

Distance: 40 miles (~1 hour)

Route: Take US-41A south through the stunning Cumberland Plateau region.

Highlights:

  • Cumberland Caverns: Explore underground caves—less touristy than other caves but equally impressive.
  • Mile Marker 134: Scenic overlook with panoramic views of the valley below.
  • Monteagle Mountain: Known for its cool mountain air and breathtaking vistas.

Experience: Stop at local roadside stands selling fresh produce, homemade jams, or crafts. Enjoy a picnic overlooking the mountains.

Day 3: Monteagle to Sewanee and Chattanooga’s Offbeat Neighborhoods

Sewanee: The University of the South

Highlights:

  • Sewanee’s campus: Walk through the beautiful Gothic architecture and scenic trails.
  • Lake Cheston: Enjoy kayaking or a peaceful picnic.
  • The Sewanee Writers’ Conference: If visiting in summer, experience local literary events.

Chattanooga’s Hidden Neighborhoods

Distance: 90 miles (~2 hours)

Chattanooga is often visited for Lookout Mountain and the Chattanooga Choo Choo, but explore its lesser-known neighborhoods:

  • North Shore: Trendy, artsy district with boutique shops, murals, and local eateries.
  • St. Elmo: Quiet historic district with unique shops and cafes.
  • Coolidge Park: Less crowded than downtown but equally scenic.

Experience: Take a walk along the Chattanooga Riverwalk, explore local art galleries, or visit the Hunter Museum of American Art for regional art.

Day 4: Chattanooga to Lookout Mountain and Trenton

Lookout Mountain Offbeat Trails

Highlights:

  • Point Park: Historic Civil War site with panoramic views.
  • Ruby Falls: Famous underground waterfall—still worth a visit but consider exploring nearby less-visited spots.
  • Rock City Gardens: While popular, try visiting early in the morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience.

Trenton: Small Town with Big Nature

Distance: 50 miles (~1 hour)

Explore the scenic beauty of the surrounding area:

  • Norris Lake: Less crowded than other lakes, perfect for kayaking, fishing, or relaxing on the shores.
  • Historic Trenton: Small downtown with local shops and eateries.

Experience: Drive the Trenton Loop, a scenic byway showcasing rural landscapes and farm life.

Day 5: Trenton to Chattanooga via the Sequatchie Valley

The Scenic Sequatchie Valley

Distance: 80 miles (~2 hours)

Travel along US-127, known as the “World’s Longest Miniature Highway,” through the stunning Sequatchie Valley.

Highlights:

  • Dunlap: Visit the Dunlap Coke Ovens Site—an industrial relic turned historic landmark.
  • Farmers markets: Enjoy local produce and crafts.
  • Cliff Top Overlooks: Stop at various viewpoints for photos and picnics.

Experience: Explore local farms or orchards for fresh apples, peaches, or homemade jams.

Day 6: Chattanooga to Dunlap and Fall Creek Falls State Park

Dunlap: Offbeat Historic Sites

Highlights:

  • Chattanooga State Community College’s Heritage Center: Learn about regional history.
  • Historic Downtown Dunlap: Quaint shops and cafes.

Fall Creek Falls State Park

Distance: 70 miles (~1.5 hours)

Why Visit: One of Tennessee’s most scenic state parks with waterfalls, gorges, and hiking trails.

Highlights:

  • Fall Creek Falls: An 256-foot cascading waterfall—one of the tallest east of the Rockies.
  • Coon Creek Cascades: Lesser-known waterfalls perfect for photography.
  • Hiking Trails: Explore the Gorge Outlook and other quiet trails.
  • Lodge and cabins: Stay overnight for a peaceful retreat.

Tip: Many visitors stick to the main waterfall, but venture off the beaten path on lesser-traveled trails for solitude and unique views.

Day 7: Fall Creek Falls to Sparta and the Cordell Hull Scenic Byway

Sparta: Gateway to Nature

Highlights:

  • Coon Creek Battlefield State Historic Site: Learn local Civil War history.
  • Local farms: Pick your own strawberries or visit farmers markets.

Cordell Hull Scenic Byway

Route: Take SR-63 along the Cumberland Plateau, offering stunning vistas, rural landscapes, and small-town charm.

Highlights:

  • Cumberland Caverns: On the way, explore underground caves.
  • Local eateries: Sample traditional Southern cuisine.

Experience: Stop at overlooks for panoramic views of the valley and mountains.

Day 8: Sparta to Crossville and the Obed Wild and Scenic River

Crossville: Hidden Gems

Highlights:

  • Cumberland County Playhouse: Small regional theater.
  • Cumberland Mountain State Park: Hiking, picnicking, and a small lake.

Obed Wild and Scenic River

Distance: 50 miles (~1 hour)

Why Visit: Protected land with rugged bluffs, waterfalls, and quiet kayaking spots—perfect for outdoor lovers seeking solitude.

Activities:

  • Hiking: Explore the Compton Loop Trail.
  • Canoeing/Kayaking: Launch from the Obed River.
  • Wildlife Watching: Spot bald eagles, foxes, and herons.

Day 9: Obed River to Cookeville and the Hidden Gems of the Upper Cumberland

Cookeville: Small-Town Charm

Highlights:

  • Cookeville History Museum: Local history and culture.
  • Crane Creek Park: Trails and scenic views.
  • Local breweries and cafes: Experience Tennessee’s craft beer scene.

Hidden Gems of the Upper Cumberland

  • Rock Island State Park: Waterfalls, hiking, and fishing.
  • Deer Lodge: Historic lodge with rustic charm.
  • Hidden River Cave: Explore underground caverns with guided tours.

Tip: Seek out local artisans and craft shops in these small towns for unique souvenirs.

Day 10: Return via the Natchez Trace Parkway and Nashville

Natchez Trace Parkway: Offbeat Scenic Drive

Highlights:

  • Historic Trail: Follow the route of Native Americans and early explorers.
  • Rest stops: Explore small historical sites and scenic overlooks.
  • Wildlife: Watch for deer, turkeys, and songbirds.

Final Stop in Nashville

Return to Nashville for a farewell dinner at a local, lesser-known eatery or a live music session in one of the neighborhood venues.

Conclusion: A Tennessee Adventure Off the Beaten Path

This 10-day Tennessee road trip takes you beyond the crowds, through scenic landscapes, historic sites, and charming small towns. It’s a journey that celebrates the authentic, diverse, and often overlooked treasures of the Volunteer State.

Tips for Your Trip:

  • Plan ahead: Some sites require reservations or have limited hours.
  • Travel lightly: Pack comfortable shoes, camera gear, and outdoor essentials.
  • Support local businesses: Dine at family-owned diners, shop at farmers markets, and stay in locally-run accommodations.
  • Respect nature and history: Follow Leave No Trace principles and honor local sites.

Whether you’re seeking peaceful mountain vistas, historic small towns, or scenic drives, Tennessee’s hidden corners promise unforgettable adventures. Embrace the offbeat, and you’ll discover a side of Tennessee that many travelers miss—rich in stories, natural beauty, and genuine Southern hospitality.

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