🌄 Make a Weekend of It - A Mountain Escape just 2.5 hours away The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers some of the most beautiful scenery in the country — rolling blue ridgelines, peaceful forests, and endless fresh mountain air. 🥾 Hit the Trails: Experience waterfall hikes and overlook trails You might even find an angry peacock in the area.
🐻 Drive Through Cades Cove Take a scenic loop through Cades Cove, one of the most popular spots in the park. You’ll find open valley views surrounded by mountains, historic log cabins and churches, and frequent wildlife sightings — black bears, white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and more. Go early in the morning or near sunset for the best chance to see animals.
Closer to the venue, Buffalo Mountain and Roan Mountain also offer great scenic hiking trails and sweeping overlooks. Buffalo Mountain Park For something close to town, Buffalo Mountain Park has great trails and overlooks with sweeping views of Johnson City. Frequently hiked by Amber, Benson, and Marlowe. Roan Mountain Just a short drive away, Roan Mountain State Park offers stunning views and scenic hiking trails. It’s perfect for a peaceful morning hike or sunset views.