Although many visit Northeast Tennessee for the hiking trails and lakes in summer and the fall leaves and festivals in fall, winter can be a great time to avoid the crowds and enjoy everything Carter County has to offer. Here are a few of the top things to do.

Get a history lesson at Sycamore Shoals State Park where you can learn about the early history of our area including the founding of the Watauga Association, the first democratic government on the continent, and the journey of the Overmountain Men to help turn the tide of the Revolutionary War.

Check out cozy coffee shops, antique and boutique stores and more in downtown Elizabethton. You can grab breakfast and coffee at the Coffee Company, visit Simple Blessings general store, search for treasures at one of the many antique shops, and be sure to check out the covered bridge all right in downtown Elizabethton.

Hike in a winter wonderland atop Roan Mountain. While it usually only snows a few times a year at the lower elevations, on Roan Mountain you’re much more likely to find snow during the winter. Go hiking, cross country skiing or snowshoeing across the Roan balds or enjoy the silence of the forest on the way up to the High Knob Shelter, the highest elevation shelter on the Appalachian Trail. 

Read Also: Savor a Southwest Michigan fall color tour

Hole up in a warm mountain cabin. What better way to enjoy the winter than tucked away in a cozy cabin with a fire going while enjoying views out the window.

Come to Carter County and see why it’s a great destination any time of the year. Start planning your trip today at tourcartercounty.com!