Eastern Tennessee’s Smoky Mountains are home to some of the most serene and secluded mountain towns in the United States. These small communities, tucked away in the folds of the Appalachian Mountains, offer breathtaking views, fresh mountain air, and a slower pace of life. From tiny towns that seem frozen in time to vibrant hubs surrounded by nature, these mountain retreats provide the perfect blend of natural beauty and peace. Here are 25 hidden gems in Eastern Tennessee where adventure meets tranquility.
1. Gatlinburg
Known as the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg blends the charm of a mountain town with tourist attractions. Its cozy cabins, scenic views, and hiking trails offer a retreat, while the lively downtown area features restaurants, shops, and art galleries. The area’s proximity to the park makes it a favorite for outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, and wildlife watching.
2. Townsend
Known as the “Peaceful Side of the Smokies,” Townsend is less crowded than its neighboring towns but no less scenic. Situated at the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it offers easy access to outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, and tubing on the Little River. With its quiet atmosphere, Townsend is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy a slower pace of life.
3. Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge is a mountain town with a tourist-friendly vibe, featuring family attractions like Dollywood and The Island. However, it’s more than just a vacation spot. The town is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, with nearby trails leading into the Smoky Mountains. Despite its popularity, Pigeon Forge still has a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal location for visitors and residents who want to balance modern conveniences with outdoor adventures.
4. Sevierville
Located near Pigeon Forge, Sevierville is a quieter, more rural mountain town with a rich history. It is known for its charming small-town feel, antique shops, and historical landmarks. Sevierville is also home to beautiful natural areas, including the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, offering plenty of outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and horseback riding. For those looking for a more peaceful setting, Sevierville provides a perfect retreat.
5. Cosby
Cosby is a hidden gem nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains. This small, rural community offers a peaceful escape from the more tourist-heavy towns nearby. With its close proximity to the Cosby Campground and trailheads leading to beautiful hiking spots like Hen Wallow Falls, Cosby is perfect for nature lovers. The town itself is a tranquil place with a strong sense of community, ideal for those looking to live away from the busy tourist areas.
6. Blountville
Blountville is a historic, peaceful town located in the northeastern part of Tennessee, surrounded by stunning mountain views. It offers a glimpse into rural Tennessee life with its historic sites and charming downtown area. The town is conveniently located near the Tri-Cities, making it a perfect spot for those seeking a quieter lifestyle while still having access to urban amenities. Blountville offers plenty of recreational opportunities, with hiking trails and nearby rivers for kayaking.
7. Newport
Nestled along the French Broad River, Newport is a picturesque small town with a rich Appalachian heritage. The town is known for its outdoor activities, including fishing, kayaking, and hiking along the nearby trails. It’s also a great place for history buffs, as it’s home to several historic sites. Newport offers a quiet and relaxing atmosphere, with access to the Great Smoky Mountains and other natural attractions.
8. Tellico Plains
Tellico Plains, located in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, is a tranquil town known for its scenic beauty and outdoor adventures. This hidden gem is surrounded by national forests, offering hiking, camping, and fishing opportunities. The town is also famous for the Tellico River, which is popular for canoeing and kayaking. With its picturesque views and quiet surroundings, Tellico Plains provides an ideal location for those looking to escape into nature.
9. Rockford
Rockford is a quiet, rural town located just outside of Knoxville, nestled along the Little River. Known for its small-town charm and welcoming community, Rockford is ideal for anyone seeking a peaceful life near the Smokies. Residents enjoy hiking, fishing, and outdoor adventures in nearby parks, with easy access to Knoxville’s amenities. It offers the best of both worlds: a tranquil, nature-filled setting with the conveniences of a nearby urban center.
10. Coker Creek
Coker Creek is a tiny community in the far eastern corner of Tennessee, nestled within the Cherokee National Forest. This area is perfect for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. The town is known for its scenic landscapes, including hiking trails and waterfalls like the Coker Creek Falls. With its remote location and pristine surroundings, Coker Creek provides a quiet, peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
11. Greeneville
Greeneville is a historic mountain town known for its rich history and proximity to the Appalachian Mountains. Famous for being the home of President Andrew Johnson, the town offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Outdoor activities are abundant, with hiking, fishing, and camping in nearby parks and forests. Greeneville’s small-town charm, coupled with its access to the mountains, makes it a wonderful place to live or visit for those seeking a more laid-back lifestyle.
12. Unicoi
Located near the North Carolina border, Unicoi is a small mountain town surrounded by natural beauty. With its location in the Appalachian Mountains, Unicoi is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of hiking trails, waterfalls, and fishing spots. The town is also close to the Cherokee National Forest and is a short drive from both Asheville and Johnson City. Unicoi’s proximity to larger cities, combined with its rural charm, makes it an ideal location for those looking to enjoy both quiet mountain living and city access.
13. LaFollette
LaFollette, located in the foothills of the Cumberland Mountains, is a peaceful town with easy access to Norris Lake and the surrounding forests. The town is perfect for anyone who loves fishing, boating, and hiking, with plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities. LaFollette’s small-town atmosphere, friendly residents, and beautiful scenery make it an appealing spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. It also offers a low cost of living, making it a great place for families.
14. Sweetwater
Sweetwater, located near the Tennessee River, is a charming town with a rich history and a variety of outdoor activities. Known for its historical landmarks and proximity to the Cherokee National Forest, Sweetwater offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and boating. The town is also home to several local parks and festivals throughout the year, making it a vibrant, community-focused place to live. Its peaceful atmosphere and scenic surroundings make it an ideal choice for those seeking a quiet mountain town.
15. Tazewell
Tazewell is a small, historic town in the northeastern part of Tennessee, known for its quiet rural setting and access to outdoor adventures. Surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains, the town offers a variety of hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities. With its charming downtown area and friendly community, Tazewell is perfect for anyone looking for a slower pace of life in a picturesque mountain setting. The nearby Clinch Mountain offers some of the best hiking trails in the region.
16. Jasper
Located at the foot of the Cumberland Plateau, Jasper is a beautiful town known for its scenic vistas and outdoor recreational opportunities. The town is surrounded by forests, making it ideal for hiking, biking, and camping. Jasper is also home to a number of historical sites and small-town amenities, providing a relaxed pace of life without being too far from the city. It offers the best of both worlds: a peaceful mountain retreat with modern conveniences nearby.
17. Byrdstown
Byrdstown is a peaceful town located on the shores of Dale Hollow Lake. Known for its stunning lake views and outdoor activities, Byrdstown is a haven for anglers, boaters, and nature lovers. The town offers access to the Cumberland River and is surrounded by forests, providing plenty of space for outdoor adventures. Byrdstown is a hidden gem for those looking for a quiet, secluded place to enjoy water activities and natural beauty.
18. Murphy
Murphy, located in the far western corner of North Carolina, is a small town surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains. The town is a gateway to a variety of outdoor adventures, including hiking, white-water rafting, and fishing in nearby rivers. Murphy’s low population density and proximity to the mountains provide a perfect setting for those seeking a retreat into nature. The town’s quaint charm and friendly community make it a welcoming place for visitors and newcomers alike.
19. Copperhill
Copperhill, located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a small town with a rich history in mining. Known for its picturesque landscapes and peaceful atmosphere, Copperhill offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking and fishing. The town is also close to the Ocoee River, making it a popular spot for white-water rafting. Copperhill’s small-town charm and easy access to outdoor adventures make it an ideal location for those looking for a quiet, scenic mountain town.
20. Rogersville
Rogersville, located near the Holston River in East Tennessee, is a charming town with a rich history and plenty of outdoor activities. Known for its historical landmarks, including the Rogersville Historic District, the town also offers access to parks, hiking trails, and fishing spots. Rogersville is a peaceful town with a strong sense of community and a slower pace of life. It’s perfect for those seeking a quiet, secluded place to live or visit.
21. Monteagle
Monteagle is a small mountain town perched atop the Cumberland Plateau, known for its breathtaking views and proximity to natural attractions like the Grundy Forest State Park. The town offers plenty of hiking opportunities and is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. Monteagle’s peaceful setting and rich history make it an ideal location for those looking to escape to the mountains while still having easy access to nearby cities. The town is known for its vibrant arts community and local festivals.
22. Whitwell
Whitwell is a quiet town located in the Tennessee Valley, surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills. Known for its small-town charm and outdoor recreational opportunities, Whitwell offers hiking, fishing, and camping in the nearby mountains. The town is home to several historic sites, including the Whitwell Memorial, which commemorates the town’s role in World War II. Whitwell is perfect for those seeking a slower pace of life with plenty of opportunities to explore nature.
23. Huntsville
Huntsville is a small town located in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, offering stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. The town is surrounded by beautiful forests, making it ideal for hiking, camping, and fishing. Huntsville is also home to several historic landmarks, including the Huntsville Cemetery and the Huntsville Inn. With its quaint downtown area and friendly community, Huntsville is a great place to enjoy the beauty of the mountains while still having access to modern amenities.
24. Allardt
Allardt is a peaceful town in the Cumberland Plateau, known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. The town is home to several parks and nature reserves, making it an ideal location for hiking, birdwatching, and fishing. Allardt’s small-town charm and close-knit community make it a great place to live or visit. The town is also known for its annual Allardt Pumpkin Festival, which attracts visitors from across the region.
25. Erwin
Erwin is a scenic town nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, known for its beautiful views and access to outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and camping. The town is located along the Nolichucky River and offers plenty of opportunities for water sports and exploration. Erwin is also home to several historic sites, including the Erwin Historic District and the Unicoi County Heritage Museum. With its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty, Erwin is an ideal spot for anyone seeking a peaceful mountain retreat.
