Tennessee, September 24, 2025
News Summary
Tennessee boasts stunning scenic drives and overlooks that showcase its natural beauty. Key highlights include Clinch Mountain Overlook, Bald River Falls, and Ozone Falls. These locations offer breathtaking views and easy access, making them perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families. With attractions like Fall Creek Falls State Park and the unique geological features in the region, Tennessee provides ample opportunities for exploration and appreciation of nature’s wonders.
Tennessee is home to some of the most breathtaking scenic drives and overlooks that allow visitors to enjoy its stunning natural beauty. Among these, the Clinch Mountain Overlook is one of the highlights, offering panoramic views of the Tennessee Valley and the iconic Smoky Mountains. Located on US-25E, near Bean Station and south of Tazewell, this overlook features the Veteran’s Overlook which provides a parking area for easy viewing and allows for a short walk to immerse oneself in nature.
Another notable destination is Bald River Falls, situated just south of Tellico Plains along Highway 68 and the Cherohala Parkway. A newly reopened bridge at this site includes a dedicated viewing platform along with expanded parking, making it convenient for visitors. Baby Falls, located a quarter mile past Bald River Falls, spotlights a great spot for observing kayakers navigating the river.
For those looking for an equally spectacular yet more accessible view, the Ozone Falls Natural Area is just off I-40 near Crab Orchard. This location features a magnificent 110-foot waterfall that can be viewed with a short walk from the parking area. Its name derives from the fresh air produced by the rushing waters.
The region also includes the geological marvel known as The Devil’s Racetrack, or “The Devil’s Backbone,” situated next to Cove Lake State Park and easily visible from northbound I-75. This remarkable formation was created by ancient tectonic plate collisions and stands out year-round, especially during the winter months. Another incredible sight is the Clear Fork Narrows, located south of Jellico along Highway 25-W, which showcases unique geological formations visible from nearby parking areas.
For stunning views of Knoxville and the Smoky Mountains, Sharp’s Ridge Veterans Memorial Park provides a scenic overlook platform that is accessible via Broadway to Ludlow Avenue. The park also offers additional amenities including hiking trails and a playground, making it a family-friendly destination.
In addition to overlooks, Fall Creek Falls State Park boasts several waterfalls including the impressive 256-foot Fall Creek Falls, one of the tallest in the eastern U.S. The park is a hub for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and rock climbing, while also featuring numerous scenic overlooks and trails.
The Lost Sea, located in Craighead Caverns, is the largest underground lake in the U.S. and can be explored through guided tours. On the other hand, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park straddles Tennessee and North Carolina, covering over 522,400 acres teeming with diverse terrain and wildlife.
On the northwest side of Tennessee lies Reelfoot Lake, a natural lake formed by historical earthquakes, recognized for its striking bald cypress forests and wildlife, particularly wintering bald eagles. Among the impressive structures here are the Twin Arches situated in the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, known as some of the largest natural sandstone bridges east of the Mississippi.
For those intrigued by underground wonders, Ruby Falls in Chattanooga holds the title of the tallest underground waterfall in the country, offering guided tours through limestone caverns. Visitors can also explore Tuckaleechee Caverns, known for its geological formations and guided cave tours that reveal the area’s rich history and ecology.
The highest peak in the Smoky Mountains, Kuwohi or Clingmans Dome, offers breathtaking panoramic views from its observation tower, while the Roaring Fork area in the park features scenic drives, abundant wildlife, and opportunities for outdoor exploration. Another remarkable phenomenon occurs in the Smoky Mountains with the Elkmont fireflies, which attract many visitors each late May and early June.
FAQ
What is the Clinch Mountain Overlook?
Clinch Mountain Overlook offers breathtaking views of the Tennessee Valley and the Smoky Mountains, located on US-25E, near Bean Station and south of Tazewell, Tennessee.
What attractions are at Bald River Falls?
Bald River Falls is located south of Tellico Plains along Highway 68 and the Cherohala Parkway, featuring a newly reopened bridge with a viewing platform and expanded parking for visitors, as well as Baby Falls for observing kayakers.
What can visitors do at Ozone Falls Natural Area?
Ozone Falls Natural Area is near Crab Orchard and features a 110-foot waterfall visible from a short walk outside of the parking area. The name “Ozone” comes from the fresh air produced by the falling waters of Ozone Falls.
What is the significance of the Devil’s Racetrack?
The Devil’s Racetrack, also known as “The Devil’s Backbone,” is a geological feature next to Cove Lake State Park visible from northbound I-75, formed by an ancient tectonic plate collision.
What is special about Fall Creek Falls State Park?
Fall Creek Falls State Park is home to several waterfalls, including the 256-foot Fall Creek Falls, one of the highest in the eastern U.S, and offers numerous outdoor activities.
Key Features of Tennessee’s Scenic Drives and Overlooks
| Location | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Clinch Mountain Overlook | Breathtaking views, parking area, historical attractions like a former caged bear. |
| Bald River Falls | Newly reopened bridge, viewing platform, expanded parking, Baby Falls for kayakers. |
| Ozone Falls Natural Area | 110-foot waterfall, easy access from parking area, fresh air produced by falling waters. |
| The Devil’s Racetrack | Geological feature, visible from I-75, formed by tectonic plate collision. |
| Fall Creek Falls State Park | 256-foot Fall Creek Falls, hiking, camping, rock climbing, scenic overlooks. |
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Additional Resources
- World Atlas: 6 Best Natural Wonders to Visit in Tennessee This Year
- Wikipedia: Natural Wonders
- Only In Your State: Biggest Surprise Hiking Trail in Tennessee
- Google Search: Tennessee Nature Trails
- Knoxville Moms: 10 Natural Wonders in East Tennessee
- Google Scholar: Tennessee Landmarks
- Southern Living: Most Beautiful Places in Tennessee
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tennessee Landscape
- World Atlas: 12 Most Scenic Tennessee Towns
- Google News: Tennessee Scenic Drives
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
