From Dawn To Dusk, Here's The Perfect Overnight Adventure In The East Tennessee Mountains
By Chris Dodge|Published October 27, 2023
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Chris Dodge
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My name is Chris Dodge and I live right here in the great state of Tennessee. My family and I are full adventurers filled with passion to see the amazing things our state has to offer. We are avid hikers and have explored many different places in Tennessee and beyond but we are always thankful to be living in such a glorious state.
As local travel experts, we know what travelers are looking for when it comes to finding the perfect accommodations for their next trip. To compile our lists, we scour the internet to find properties with excellent ratings and reviews, desirable amenities, nearby attractions, and that something special that makes a destination worthy of traveling for.
Over the years, East Tennessee has become a highly sought-after destination. Many people from all over the country, and even the globe, have been coming to a little corner of our state known as the Tri-Cities. Have you been curious what all the hype has been about? Well the secret is out, and I can tell you from experience that this region is one of the most amazing places to stay, visit, and explore in Tennessee. So if you want to check it out, I’ve put together a magical two-day trip in the region, the best cabin rental in Jonesborough, Tennessee, as your home base. Welcome to one of the greatest regions of the Volunteer State, friends!
I would like to welcome you to the Outpost, which you'll find located off scenic Route 107.
This road alone is filled with stunning views of the Cherokee Mountains just waiting to be explored -- more on that later. The Outpost is a fantastic cabin with loads of rustic charm. Being off of the beaten path and into the countryside clearly has its advantages, from the starry nights to the peaceful pace of life offered in this humble abode. This accommodation sleeps up to eight guests, and has three bedrooms and two bathrooms. You will have access to a fully stocked kitchen and plenty of space for you and your family to enjoy your stay.
Perhaps the best part of the property is its access to the Nolichucky River.
The flowing water is right on the property line and the owners have made it a centerpiece, allowing guests plenty of outdoor space to take full advantage of the scenic views. Grill on the porch or have a picnic under the shade of the tree -- the outdoors is calling! Now that you are familiar with your cabin, allow me to take you on a journey through this incredible region of Tennessee.
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I always think the best way to appreciate any new area is on your own two feet.
So our first stop is to head "over the river and through the woods." Just down the street from the cabin, Sill Branch Falls awaits after a short, half-mile hike. Here is the AllTrails map to give you an idea of the elevation involved, and a route to follow. I have hiked to this waterfall many times and have seen it flowing under a canopy of green in the summer to being completely frozen in the winter. It is a gorgeous waterfall and the hike is simple for any beginner.
Waterfall chased, it's time for lunch! Continue down the road to partake in a classic Tennessee tradition. The Farmers Daughter is a quintessential Southern eatery you won't want to miss. Fuel up on good, ole country cooking for the next hike.
The goal for this adventure is to get to Margarette Falls. This trail is a little bit more difficult than the last one, but if you follow along with the AllTrails map you should be just fine. I loved this hike when my family and I did it and would tackle it again in a heartbeat. The forest is beautiful with bridged stream crossings, staircases, and little waterfalls sprinkled throughout the journey. Margarette Falls itself is stunning; a slanted cascade that pours over slick and dark rocks that make for a wonderful contrast of colors.
Before heading back to the cabin for the night, make sure you do a bit of exploring in downtown Jonesborough, Tennessee.
This is one of the most charming little towns in Tennessee (not that I am picking favorites) and if you catch it just right, you can be a part of the many different festivities they have throughout the year. Maybe hear a little music on the Square or get enraptured by a captivating story during the annual Story Tellers Festival -- there are a plethora of historic buildings to see and unique shops to experience, though, regardless of when you visit. Before the night is through, head on back to the Outpost for a relaxing evening before seeing another fine spot in the Tri-Cities area.
In the morning, it is sadly time to pack up and go home -- but before you do, head just down the road to Johnson City.
This lovely little city is just small enough to give guests the small-town feel while still having enough attractions just like a bigger city. It truly is a wonderful place filled with nice parks, amazing restaurants, and exciting museums -- and there is even a mountain right in the city limits! How cool is that!? You could easily spend a day exploring Johnson City, but one place I would recommend more than anywhere else is the quaint little downtown. Enjoy the city, and we half expect to see you back sometime soon, because very few people visit the Tri-Cities area without eventually just moving their family here. See you soon!
When you want to experience the east side of the state, The Outpost is the best cabin rental in Jonesborough, Tennessee, to make your home base. There is so much to see and do that I am only scratching the surface of the adventures that await! What are some of your favorite places to visit and things to do in East Tennessee? Let us know — we’d love to hear from you!
