Magical Winter Getaways in Tennessee

Photo Credit: TN Dept. of Tourist Development 

Winter is magical in Tennessee with scenic waterfalls, hikes, cozy bed and breakfasts and hidden gems. Experience the beauty at these winter getaways.

REELFOOT LAKE STATE PARK IN TIPTONVILLE

Take in the scenic beauty, cypress trees and wildlife of Reelfoot Lake at Blue Bank Resort in Hornbeak. The resort also has a restaurant with Southern fried catfish, shrimp and grits and deep-fried oysters. Reelfoot Lake State Park is in the northwest corner of Tennessee. The 15,000-acre lake was created by a series of earthquakes in 1811-1812 that caused the Mississippi River to flow backwards. Also in Northwest Tennessee, be wowed at Discovery Park of America in Union City. Interactive experiences await visitors, including dinosaurs, a 20,000-gallona aquarium, glass-floored observation tower, working gristmill, full-sized antique train and tractor displays, historical exhibits and gardens.

COOKEVILLE

Start the day with a cup of coffee, bagel or muffin made by a local baker at Poet’s. Take a stroll from boutiques to antiques. Located on the Tennessee Antique Trail, you’ll find antique shops throughout Cookeville, Algood and Monterey. Pop in local boutiques along the way like 31Twenty-Five Boutique and Cigi’s in Cookeville’s historic downtown square. Lace up your shoes and bundle up to hike the Pioneer Trail at Cumberland Mountain State Park in nearby Crossville. Seven Senses Food and Cheer serves up Southern and American-style dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. The menu includes salads, sandwiches, tacos, burgers, wraps and delicious entrees like chicken mac. Make sure to grab a cinnamon twist, red velvet or classic glazed treat at Ralph’s Donuts. Rest up at The Saltbox Inn & Stables. The 22-acre farm is the perfect getaway with four suites for lodging. All suites have private baths, independent climate control, cable TV and WIFI.

SOUTH CUMBERLAND STATE PARK

South Cumberland State Park is a series of nine individual mountain wilderness areas encompassing more than 30,000 protected acres. Start the journey at the park’s Visitor’s Center in Monteagle, about 45 minutes east of Chattanooga, where you can get maps, trail and camping information. The Fiery Gizzard Trail is an approximately 12.5-mile, one-way trail connecting Grundy Forest with Foster Falls. Along the trails, you will hike along its namesake creek, through rocky gorges and deep woodlands. There’s also the breathtaking Savage Gulf. with sweeping vista views, cascading waterfalls, historic sites and the Stone Door. There are nearly 100 backcountry campsites, as well as a backcountry cabin and a handful of tent camping sites close to parking areas. Pitch a tent or take advantage of the more luxurious options for an incredible winter vacation.

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Jill Kilgore, Public Relations Media Manager, [email protected]
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