Summary

  • Tennessee's charming mountain towns offer a raw and energizing outdoor experience, making them a must-visit for nature lovers.
  • These towns, such as Elkmont and Jonesborough, are rich in history and feature well-preserved structures from the past.
  • Whether it's exploring the Great Smoky Mountains or enjoying cultural experiences, towns like Townsend and Johnson City offer a diverse range of attractions/activities.

Tennessee volunteers itself as a great recreational destination, as it should be, because it has the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited in the United States. The Volunteer State hosts varied attractions like the adrenaline-packed Dollywood, the majestic Parthenon in the capital Nashville, museums, scenic byways, and historical landmarks, among others.

However, those who want to experience raw beauty should visit the state's charming mountain towns, where the breeze is not just fresh but energizing. The said towns are the best hangout spots for lovers of the outdoors and those who want to be close to Mother Nature. So charming are these destinations that tourists would want to become locals.

UPDATE: 2023/10/23 20:05 EST BY MARIA BOU INK

Most Beautiful Small Towns In The Tennessee Mountains: Expanded

The Great Smoky Mountains, Unaka Mountains, and other lofty and mesmerizing mountains are parts of Tennessee. These beautiful sites are a hub for the best small mountain towns in Tennessee. This list was updated to include additional places.

15 Elkmont

shutterstock_1166494444Autumn view of Little River from hiking trail near Elkmont in Smoky Mountains National Park
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Autumn view of Little River from hiking trail near Elkmont in Smoky Mountains National Park

Elkmont is one of the little Smoky Mountain towns close to Gatlinburg, Tennessee. It has a fascinating past that dates back to a time before the creation of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Early in the 19th century, it was an Appalachian village and the home of pioneers who traveled to Tennessee. The pioneers gave the town the name Elkmont due to the elk that lived in the region.

Currently a component of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the town is well-known for its ghost towns and campsites.

  • Hotels: Budget Inn Elkmont, Elkmont Campground…

14 Jonesborough

Aerial view of Jonesborough, Tennessee
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Aerial view of Jonesborough, Tennessee

With live relics from the 18th century lining the streets, Jonesborough is like Tennessee's own time capsule. Visitors get the perfect Southern experience when they combine that with the breathtaking surroundings of the Appalachians' unparalleled natural splendor.

The historic area of Jonesborough, home to some of the state's quaintest and ancient structures, is the center of the city. Among the numerous, see Christopher Taylor's log cottage from 1778, which is thought to be the oldest house in Jonesborough. The Old Sweet Shop, located inside the Old Masonic Hall from the 18th century, is another place to sate your sweet taste.

  • Hotels: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Jonesborough-Johnson City West, Jonesborough Bed and Breakfast…

13 Townsend

A stream between trees at Tremont Road in Townsend, United States
Photo by Nathan Anderson on Unsplash
A stream between trees at Tremont Road in Townsend, United States

Townsend is one of the gateway towns to the Great Smokies as well as one of the best small towns in the Tennessee Mountains. It is not as dynamic as Gatlinburg nearby, but the town itself is a more low-key, comfortable destination to experience the marvels of the breathtaking Tennessee mountains. It is filled with cute small-town draws made for a slow journey. Travelers visit the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center, a beautiful open-air museum featuring scenic wooden houses describing culture and architecture, a story of the Southern Appalachian way of life. Another must-visit is the Cades Cove Historic District, which takes people on a voyage to 19th-century Appalachia.

Related: These Small Towns Make For The Perfect Tennessee Getaway

12 Johnson City

Winged Deer Park in Johnson City, TN
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Winged Deer Park in Johnson City, TN

Set in the shades of the Appalachian Mountains, Johnson City is a fantastic place to embrace East Tennessee and one of the state’s best vacation spots. It’s a lively small town in the Tennessee mountains featuring many cultural experiences, an excellent food scene, heritage sites to discover, and an agreeable vibe. Travelers go to Buffalo Mountain Park for beautiful walks and lovely waterfalls and explore the fascinating Tipton-Haynes site with its 18th-century architecture. As for a metropolitan outing, downtown Johnson City is famous for its various bars and restaurants serving Southern cuisine.

  • Hotels: Hampton Inn Johnson City, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Johnson City, Holiday Inn Johnson City...

11 Sevierville

Sevierville, TN, USA
Photo by Aaron Clinard on Unsplash
Scenic view of Sevierville, TN, USA

Although Pigeon Forge takes the more meaningful piece of Dolly Parton’s travels in Tennessee, it is in calmer Sevierville that the singer starts her path. This Tennessee mountain is a perfect vacation destination, close to the national park, stunning Douglas Lake nearby, shopping areas, a wonderful restaurant scene, and various accommodation choices. Fans of country music here visit the heart of town to see the statue of Dolly Parton. Sevierville offers a rush of Appalachian authenticity and is an ideal pick for a Great Smoky Mountains getaway and quest base.

  • Hotels: Baymont by Wyndham Sevierville, SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Sevierville, La Quinta by Wyndham Sevierville...

10 Erwin

Beautiful Sill Branch Waterfall, Erwin, Tennessee
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Beautiful Sill Branch Waterfall, Erwin, Tennessee

Erwin is set where the Cherokee National Forest meets the Nolichucky River. Coming here means reaching a genuine natural retreat surrounded by majestic green vistas. The most picturesque part would be Nolichucky Gorge. People can raft, camp, or picnic at the Chestoa Recreation Area nearby, as most Erwin visitors do. People explore the beautiful river rushing through the old forest. Nolichucky Gorge Campground & Cabins is a superb opportunity to choose from. It takes travelers to the heart of the outdoors. Fishing lovers try their luck with trout and smallmouth bass here.

  • Hotels: Super 8 by Wyndham Erwin, Mountain Inn & Suites...

9 Pigeon Forge

Sunrise at the Old Mill in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, USA
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Sunrise at the Old Mill in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, USA

Pigeon Forge is probably the most famous mountain town in Tennessee because of its proximity to the Great Smokies and for being the home of Dollywood. Country music fans and culture buffs will enjoy spending a vacation in this town because, aside from the previously mentioned attractions, it also has musical theaters and museums. Amusement rides and sightseeing are favorite activities in town, but outdoor lovers are in for a treat, too, thanks to the biking paths, hiking trails, and rafting. Pigeon Forge will take tourists to cloud nine.

  • Hotels: Riverside Tower, Vacation Lodge, Bear Camp by the Night...

Related: 10 Surprisingly Free Things That You Can Do In Gatlinburg

8 Gatlinburg

Panoramic view from the Gatlinburg overlook during sunset
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Panoramic view from the Gatlinburg overlook during sunset

Gatlinburg follows Pigeon Forge as one of the best vacation towns in Tennessee, thanks to its location on the border of the Great Smokies. In this destination, people will enjoy an adventurous getaway in the Great Smoky Mountains. There's the SkyLift that will take them to the top of Crockett Mountain, where they can cross the country's longest footbridge. For the most beautiful hikes in the US, travelers can conquer the trails of Charlies' Bunion, while winter adventurers can take on the hills of the skiing destination Ober Gatlinburg. Gatlinburg has talent, indeed.

  • Hotels: Quality Inn & Suites Gatlinburg, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Gatlinburg Downtown, The Park Vista - A DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel - Gatlinburg...

7 Wears Valley

Mist in the valley of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park seen from Wears Valley, Tennessee
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Mist in the valley of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park seen from Wears Valley, Tennessee

Being a border town of the Great Smokies, Wears Valley is an adept host to those eager to explore where the wild things are. The national park is the main attraction, so hikers, horseback riders, and other outdoor lovers can consider booking accommodation in town. Wears Valley offers wonderful views of the mountain, especially during fall when the scenery turns from green to red, yellow, and orange. Though a small town, only 3 miles wide and 5 miles long, Wears Valley knows how to wow.

  • Hotel: The Lodge at Wears Valley

Related: These Tennessee Towns Know How To Turn On The Southern Charm

6 Walland

Walland, TN on map
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Walland, TN on map

The scenery is exciting in the census-designated place of Walland. Not only is this destination located in the foothills of the Great Smokies, but it’s also hugged by other mountains in Tennessee: Chilhowee, Hurricane, and Bates. With such wonders, outdoor lovers will experience zen in Walland. Dubbed the “Peaceful Side of the Smokies,” this Tennessee charmer’s most famous spot is Blackberry Farm, a luxury hotel and resort where family fun is guaranteed. The town also has antique shops, but what takes the cake is the endless trails for nature buffs.

  • Hotels: Quietside Cabin Grill Fire Pit Fireplace, Crystal River Cabin with Scenic View and Fire Pit...

5 Cosby

Scenic Big Creek Cascade in Cosby, Tennessee
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Scenic Big Creek Cascade in Cosby, Tennessee

Though small, Cosby is known as the “Moonshine Capital of the World” when the said beverage was once a thriving industry in town. Aside from the national park, the community also offers other outdoor adventures for travelers who want to keep their legs busy. Hikers can take the trail that will lead them to Mount Cammerer's lookout tower, while casual travelers can join a llama trek. Those who want to take a dip can hike to Midnight Hole from the town, while Cosby Campground awaits those raring to explore the area for more than a day. Cosby is indeed charming.

  • Hotels: Hen Wallow Creek Cottage, Creekwalk Inn Bed and Breakfast with Cabins, Cozy Cabins of Cosby...

4 Pittman Center

Pittman, Tennessee on map
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Pittman, Tennessee on map

Pittman Center prides itself as a “community dedicated to preserving our mountain heritage,” evident in the town’s attractions. After all, it’s located in the Great Smokies, where mountain life is at its best. The historic landscape of the town is well-preserved, something to entice lovers of the past who want to step back in time, all the while having a fun day with Mother Nature. The activities in this charming destination include hiking, fishing, birdwatching, wildlife watching, and sightseeing. There’s something for everyone in Pittman Center.

  • Hotels: Heavens Hill, Cozy Cabin, Papa Bear...

3 Maryville

Maryville-greenbelt in Blount County, Tennessee, USA
Photo by:Brian StansberryCC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Maryville-greenbelt in Blount County, Tennessee, USA

North of Maryville is the Great Smokies, while it has Chilhowee Mountain to the south, making the breeze in the town not just inviting but inspiring. The main street in the downtown area is the best introduction to the area's charm before tourists head to any of its parks. The parks are perfect for picnics and quick strolls, like Maryville Alcoa Greenway, Pearson Springs, Sandy Springs, Bicentennial Greenbelt, and Jarvis. Parks and recreation, while a show for some, is a lifestyle in Maryville.

  • Hotels: Luxbury Inn & Suites, Dragon City, Mountain View Motel...

Related: 10 Of The Least-Crowded Towns To Visit In Tennessee To See Fall Foliage

2 Tellico Plains

Tellico Lake surrounded by trees and mountains
Photo by Susanne Alexander on Unsplash
Tellico Lake surrounded by trees and mountains.

Not more than 800 souls (as of 2020) are living in Tellico Plains, so the town is always eager to welcome those curious enough to visit the charming community. Located by the Tellico River, the town is a gateway to the lush Cherokee National Forest and the scenic Cherohala Skyway. It has stunning views of the Smokies, so even those sightseeing in the streets and shopping will have a beautiful panorama at their disposal. From the falls and rivers to the eateries and shops, Tellico Plains aims to impress.

  • Hotels: Riverfront Lodge, Rainbow Trout on Tellico River, The Lodge at Tellico...

1 Hartford

Pigeon River In Hartford, Tennessee, United States
Brian Stansberry, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0
Pigeon River In Hartford, Tennessee, United States

Those who want their heart pounding should visit Hartford, where adrenaline-filled moments are always guaranteed. Situated in a valley along the Pigeon River, rafting is a favorite recreational activity in this small mountain town in Tennessee. Conquering rapids in this charming destination is not just action-packed but scenic because it's surrounded by mountains: Cammerer, Green, Stone, and Snowbird. With that, it’s possible that while rafters are shouting, they are lulled by the area’s beauty. Only in Hartford that such a blissful experience can be had.

  • Hotels: Jireh Mount Cabin, Hen Wallow Creek Cottage...