When You Take Tennessee's Top Secret Trail, You'll Find Hidden Gems You Never Knew About Across The State
By Meghan Kraft|Updated on January 16, 2024(Originally published November 07, 2020)
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Meghan Kraft
Author
Meghan Kraft loves to travel the world, but she makes her home right here in Nashville, Tennessee. She holds a degree in English, and has worked in the digital marketing realm with companies such as Apartments.com, USA Today and HarperCollins Publishing.
Tennessee is rife with both expansive history and incredible, locally-owned attractions and eateries. Tennessee Vacation has done a great job pulling together points of interest from around the state, but it just might be the introduction of the “Top Secret Trail” in east Tennessee that changes the game. We have our own neat trails (wine and cider trail, anyone?), but Tennessee’s Top Secret Trail is a must-try. We’ve highlighted a few points of interest along the way below, but you can learn more by way of the link at the bottom of the article. Happy adventuring, folks! There’s a lot to explore.
The Museum of Appalachia highlights the experience of an Appalachian pioneer on the 65-acre property. It's considered one of the most authentic in the world, a true replica of Appalachian life remade in Tennessee. It is always good to enter a museum to learn about something new but it is wholly different to visit a living history museum. With old buildings, cabins, animals, and so much more this truly is an experience to walk back in time to see how early mountain people lived.
2. Sergeant Alvin C. York State Historic Park, Pall Mall
Sergeant Alvin C. York State Historic Park can be found in Pall Mall, Tennessee, and it's a hidden gem of a state park that pays tribute to one of the most decorated soldiers to serve in World War I. You'll find a visitor center, York's home, a gristmill, and even the old York Bible School to explore on the property. It's a true history lesson in itself! At Sergeant Alvin C. York State Historic Park you will get the chance to walk the Alvin C. York Trail which will take you into a mock trench that was similar to what they used in warfare during WWI. Walk back through time to truly experience what it was like in the First World War.
The Historic Tennessee Theater is known as a "movie palace" in the heart of downtown Knoxville. The gorgeous structure was built in 1928 and is known as the city's first skyscraper. If you have the chance to catch a show, it's truly an incredible experience! For more information or to see the lineup of upcoming shows please visit the Historic Tennessee Theater website.
Norris Lake can be found just 20 miles north of Knoxville, and it's a great place if you're looking to go fishing, skiing, or boating in the heart of the Volunteer State The water is clear and clean, and with more than 20 marinas there's a place for everyone to spend some time.
Indian Mountain State Park can be found in Campbell County and is made up of 213 acres at the base of Indian Mountain. It's a popular spot for camping and hiking and is right on the edge of Tennessee's northern border.
The Blount Mansion is located in downtown Knoxville and it is the former home of William Blount who was the only territorial governor of the area once known as the Southwest Territory. It's a National Historic Landmark that provides a look back in time.
The Grey Gables Bed And Breakfast Inn can be found in Rugby, Tennessee, and boasts all the beauty of English influence with a little Tennessee country comfort sprinkled throughout. The bed and breakfast has ten bedrooms perfect for guests, and you'll have the chance to enjoy a gourmet dinner and country breakfast when you stay.
This is just the start of Tennessee’s Top Secret trail. There is so much to see and do from hidden gems to highly sought-after locations that everyone can enjoy. Sometimes getting off the beaten path and exploring something new can be a thrilling experience so we hope we inspire you to get out and experience our great state of Tennessee. Interested in taking the leap and finding more tucked-away places? Check out our list of 10 of the best hidden gems in Tennessee.
You can learn more about Tennessee’s Top Secret Trail on the official Tennessee Vacation website.
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