Explore the Forest!

Holston Mountain provides a scenic backdrop for South Holston Lake and is a venue for boating, water skiing, swimming, fishing and horseback riding.

Rugged mountain solitude can be experienced throughout this area. Long distance backpacking, trout fishing and the shortest tunnel in the world are a few features you can find here.

Water recreation is abundant in this area, featuring Watauga Lake; the Doe, Elk and Watauga rivers;  several streams and seven waterfalls.

This region's steep rugged mountainsides, high-elevation balds and hollows are richly diverse, home to unique and rare plants and animals.

Backcountry trails, scenic driving and the Nolichucky River provide opportunities for outdoor adventure.  High elevation balds along the Unaka Mountain Range offer spectacular views.

Most of the region is remote backcountry, including Bald Mountain Ridge Scenic Area and Sampson Mountain Wilderness.  Roads are limited, but forty-plus miles of trail access the forest.

This area’s wooded mountainsides and creek gorges are linked by an extensive road and trail system.  Activities include fishing, hiking, horseback riding, creek play and camping. 

Located between the French Broad and Pigeon Rivers, this area offers pockets of backcountry nestled among the rural communities of Cocke County, TN.   

This region provides opportunities for solitude and backcountry experiences.  You will find ample opportunities for fishing, horseback riding, camping, and hiking.

This area provides outstanding opportunities for fishing, camping, hiking, and scenic driving.  It is also home to the popular Indian Boundary Recreation Area and the Cherohala Skyway.

Heritage and culture experiences are the primary emphasis in this area.  It is home to the nationally recognized Millennium Trail, The Unicoi Turnpike and gold panning opportunities.

Starr Mountain is a popular Region of the national forest for horse riding & camping with nearly 20 miles of trails and a number of roads available for riding.  Lost Corral Campground & Trailhead provides the easiest access to the area.

Forested hillsides and pastoral river bottoms complement the beauty of Hiwassee River Gorge. Fishing, rafting, canoeing and hiking are popular activities.

World class whitewater, mountain biking trail systems, environmental education programs, highly developed camping, and scenic byways are a few activities featured in the Ocoee River area.  

This Region is known for solitude and backcountry adventure, with Big Frog Wilderness being a destination for backpacking, day-hiking and hunting.