7 Incredible Natural Wonders In Tennessee That You Can Witness For Free
By Meghan Kraft|Published June 30, 2021
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Meghan Kraft
Author
Meghan Kraft loves to travel the world, but she makes her home right here in Nashville, Tennessee. She holds a degree in English, and has worked in the digital marketing realm with companies such as Apartments.com, USA Today and HarperCollins Publishing.
The grand expanse of Tennessee boasts everything from craggy mountains to lush, plant-infused gulfs. You’ll find gushing waterfalls and old wood forests and the grand and great beauty of a sweeping meadow from one end of the state to the next, views that are enough to drop your jaw and fill your heart. We’ve put together seven incredible natural wonders found throughout the Volunteer State, and the best part? You can witness them all for free. Learn more about the beauty of Tennessee below, and maybe even plan a trip for yourself.
There is much great beauty to be had, friends. There is such beauty to be seen.
Reelfoot Lake has one of the strangest and most interesting natural origin stories here in Tennessee. It's the only natural lake in Tennessee and was formed after a series of earthquakes known as the New Madrid Earthquakes rocked the state. You can visit for yourself at Reelfoot Lake State Park in Tiptonville, Tennessee.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known as one of the most beautiful and diverse representations of natural life in the state. You'll find old-growth forests and rocky ridges, beautiful meadows, coves, and craggy creeks throughout the area. It's free to visit, and we'd recommend camping or hiking in the area if possible.
Cades Cove is a natural meadow that's known as one of the first places settlers made their home here in Tennessee. It's accessible by way of a free driving loop, or you can hike through the verdant valley. All for free! The views are stunning and the experience is known as one of the best in the state.
Fall Creek Falls is actually the most visited state park in Tennessee and is known for the tallest waterfall in the state. At a whopping 256-feet, you'll find yourself in awe as you watch the water rush from above and crash into the pool below. Keep in mind that you will have to hike to the site, though the falls are accessible throughout the year. That winter shot is stunning, don't you think?
The Tennessee River Gorge is known as the Grand Canyon of the South and has been carved out of the Cumberland Plateau by the Tennessee River. It's located on the south side of the Volunteer State and is accessible by hike.
The Cherohala Skyway is shared by both Tennessee and North Carolina, as the 43-mile National Scenic Byway stretches from Tellico Plains to Robbinsville. It was completed in 1996 and has been known as one of the best spots to catch autumnal colors in both states. Plus, it's free to drive!
Burgess Falls is a stunning cascade waterfall that rushes 136-feet from its crown to its base in a limestone gorge. It's best known for the sheer limestone walls that enclose the area and is accessible by hike within Burgess Falls State Park.
There are so many beautiful places to visit in Tennessee that it’s hard to choose just one! If you’re looking for more fun, we have a feeling that Rock Island State Park might be a winner.
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