Nationalparks in Tennessee

Tennessee is home to a number of beautiful national parks, each with its own unique features and attractions. Here's a brief overview of some of the most popular ones:

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Located in the eastern part of the state, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States. The park boasts over 800 miles of hiking trails, including a section of the famous Appalachian Trail. Visitors can also enjoy scenic drives, waterfalls, wildlife viewing, and historic sites such as Cades Cove, an 1800s-era settlement.

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Situated on the Cumberland Plateau in northern Tennessee, Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area is known for its rugged beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. The park offers over 150 miles of hiking and horseback riding trails, as well as opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and rock climbing. Visitors can also explore historic sites such as the mining town of Blue Heron and the John Muir Trail.

Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park

Located in southeast Tennessee, this national park commemorates the Civil War battles of Chickamauga and Chattanooga. Visitors can explore historic battlefields, monuments, and museums, as well as hike or bike the park's many trails. The park also offers scenic drives and ranger-led programs.

Natchez Trace Parkway

Although not a national park, the Natchez Trace Parkway is a popular scenic drive that stretches from Nashville, Tennessee to Natchez, Mississippi. The parkway follows the historic Natchez Trace, a trade route used by Native Americans and early settlers. Along the way, visitors can explore historic sites, hike or bike the parkway's many trails, and enjoy beautiful scenery.

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

Located in the northeastern corner of Tennessee, Cumberland Gap National Historical Park is a popular destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The park preserves the Cumberland Gap, a natural passage through the Appalachian Mountains that was used by Native Americans, early settlers, and Civil War soldiers. Visitors can explore historic sites such as Hensley Settlement and Gap Cave, as well as hike or bike the park's many trails.

Obed Wild and Scenic River

Located in eastern Tennessee, Obed Wild and Scenic River is a popular destination for rock climbing, whitewater paddling, and hiking. The park encompasses over 45 miles of the Obed River and its tributaries, as well as dramatic sandstone cliffs and rock formations. Visitors can explore the park's many trails, or enjoy scenic views from the river.

Shiloh National Military Park

Located in southwest Tennessee, Shiloh National Military Park commemorates the Civil War battle of Shiloh, which took place in 1862. Visitors can explore historic battlefields, monuments, and museums, as well as hike or bike the park's many trails. The park also offers ranger-led programs and living history demonstrations.

Stones River National Battlefield

Located in central Tennessee, Stones River National Battlefield commemorates the Civil War battle of Stones River, which took place in 1862-1863. Visitors can explore historic battlefields, monuments, and museums, as well as hike or bike the park's many trails. The park also offers ranger-led programs and living history demonstrations.

Overall, Tennessee's national parks offer a wide range of outdoor recreation opportunities and historic sites for visitors to explore.

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