This Uncrowded Gem in Tennessee Is the Next Big Thing in Slow Travel

Tennessee is full of showstopping attractions: the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Dollywood, Nashville’s Broadway, and Graceland, just to name a few. And while it’s all too tempting to load up your Tennessee travel itinerary with the most popular destinations in the Volunteer State, there’s something to be said for a quieter, more immersive travel experience. That’s the idea behind slow travel, a growing trend in the travel industry that prioritizes getting to know a specific place or region fully rather than checking off as many single destinations as possible. And for slow travel, we can think of no better destination than Watauga Lake.

Located in the beautiful mountains of Eastern Tennessee, Watauga Lake is a reservoir that was created in 1948 by the Tennessee Valley Authority. The lake is surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains and Cherokee National Forest, giving the place a surreal, almost otherworldly beauty. Moreover, it’s considered to be the third-cleanest lake in the entire country. The original town of Butler is now resting at the bottom of the reservoir, and the new designated town has been relocated to higher ground.

Getting to Watauga Lake requires a bit of patience. But that is, in our opinion, one of the beautiful things about slow travel. You’ll embark on winding mountain roads through rural counties before arriving at your destination. Watauga Lake is about two and a half hours from the entrance of the Great Smoky National Park, and though it’s every bit as magical, it’s far less busy. The lake makes for an excellent choice for visitors looking to connect with nature in an unhurried, uncrowded manner.

There are several ways to enjoy some time on the lake, ranging from water activities to hiking trails and historic sites. If you’re interested in hitting the trails, you should prepare yourself for a lengthy and absolutely stunning hiking experience. One of the most popular trails in the area is a portion of the famous Appalachian Trail, specifically from Oliver Hollow Road to Watauga Dam. The trail is 5.7 miles out-and-back, and it’s considered moderately difficult, mostly due to the intense 800-foot elevation gain. Those who brave the challenge will be rewarded with stunning water views, peaceful scenery, and the feeling of being totally secluded.

If you don’t want to commit several hours to hiking, there are shorter trails. The Watauga Lake Dam Overlook is a short-and-sweet 0.4-mile trail that offers beautiful views of the dam and lake. It’s an ideal option if you’re traveling with younger hikers.

Wondering where to stay near Watauga Lake? There are a handful of vacation rental options available, all offering proximity to the water. Canyon Dream Waterfront Cabin is a stunning Airbnb rental with its own private dock. Plus, it can accommodate up to 12 guests.

Have you ever visited Wautaga Lake before? What was your favorite experience there? If you’ve never been, be sure to send this article to a fellow travel enthusiast and start planning your adventures today!