Explore Tennessee and the Surrounding Regions
Hiking, Music & More
While you’re in town for a Reiki workshop, why not explore what else Tennessee and the surrounding regions have to offer?
There are a number of activities in the area that you can experience during your visit, such as hiking, canoeing, boating, photography and shopping in Tennessee’s oldest city… Jonesborough.
The Mountains of Appalachia
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive through some of the most beautiful mountains and pastoral landscapes of Appalachia. The Parkway runs from the Smoky Mountains in North Carolina up into Virginia, in large part, through the Blue Ridge Mountains. You can find cabin rentals, hiking trails, waterfalls, wineries, breweries, galleries, shops and more.
Within the Blue Ridge is the Cherokee National Forest, stretching along the eastern border of Tennessee. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park lies within the Cherokee National Forest, dividing it into northern and southern portions, with campgrounds, picnic areas, hiking trails, whitewater rivers and plenty of wildlife.
The Appalachian Trail runs from Georgia to Maine, and in between, roughly follows the North Carolina border as it shifts into Tennessee. Some of the highest mountains in this range are above 6,000 feet.
Grandfather Mountain (pictured in the header) …towers above northwest North Carolina at 5,946 feet. It is a part of the United Nations’ Southern Appalachian Biosphere Reserve and estimated to be 300 million years old, with certain rock formations dating back over a billion years.
Tennessee State Parks
Experience the outdoors at the many Tennessee State Parks which include lodges, campgrounds, cabins and waterfalls. A few near the Johnson City area are:
Have a back up plan when visiting a state park. At times, certain services and/or experiences may not be available due to weather or construction/repairs. Also, there are occasional closings due to dangerous/ nuisance bear activity.
Major Tennessee Cities
Chattanooga, TN: “We’ve been named by Lonely Planet as the “Best in the U.S.” and “10 U.S. destinations you need to see.” In fact, the New York Times named Chattanooga one of the “Top 45 Places to go” in the World. And it’s no wonder. Tucked between the mountains of Southeast Tennessee, along the beautiful Tennessee River, Chattanooga is one of America’s most breathtaking cities.”
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Gatlinburg TN: “Plan your Smokey Mountain getaway. We have miles of hiking trails in the mountains and tons of dining, attractions, shopping, and arts and crafts in town. Make Gatlinburg your basecamp for adventure.”
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Pigeon Forge, TN: “At Pigeon Forge, a moment can last a lifetime. For generations, visitors have returned to explore our little mountain town in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains. As a year-round family-friendly vacation destination, Pigeon Forge is filled with fun activities. From thrilling attractions and award-winning shows to countless options for dining, shopping and lodging, it’s easy to see why so many consider Pigeon Forge their home away from home. We can’t wait to welcome you! Visit the Dollywood Theme Park. Stay at Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa or a Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Cabins rental while you explore the Great Smoky Mountains. Dollywood theme park and Dollywood’s Splash Country water park are nestled in the Smokies, so you’ll always have a great view of the mountains while you enjoy world-class roller coasters, festivals, delicious culinary offerings, live music and shows at Dollywood and waterslides, a wave pool, a lazy river and more at Dollywood’s Splash Country.”
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Knoxville, TN: “Here in Knoxville, we pride ourselves on our unique mix of natural beauty, outdoor adventure and cultural attractions. In other words, we’re a-nature-loving-adventure-seeking-artsy-kinda-town. And we can’t wait to welcome you.”
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Jonesborough, TN: “The oldest city in Tennessee; music, shops, events, and the storytelling capital of the world. The International Storytelling Center (ISC) is located in the heart of downtown Jonesborough. The ISC campus consists of the historic Chester Inn, the Mary B. Martin Storytelling Hall, the ISC gift shop, and the Jimmy Neil Smith Storytelling Park.”
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Johnson City, TN: “Nestled in the foothills of the scenic Appalachian Mountains, Johnson City, Tennessee combines big-city amenities, small-town Southern charm, and world-class outdoor recreation into a travel destination for everyone. Whether you’re looking for your next adventure, a leisurely weekend retreat, or a family-friendly vacation, you can Go. All. Out. in Johnson City.”
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Bristol, TN: “Discover Bristol; Outdoors, Food & Drink, Music & the Arts, Shopping and more, including the Bristol Motor Speedway.”
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Nashville, TN: “Calendar of Events, Concert Tickets, Hotels, Activities, Attractions, Golf, History, the Music Scene and more including the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Grand Ole Opry.”
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Memphis, TN: “Attractions & Activities, Family Fun, Music & Nightlife, Outdoors and more, including a visit to Elvis’ Graceland.”
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