Fun Day Trips to Take Near Kingsport, TN

The city of Kingsport, TN, is located in the northeastern corner of the state, not far from the Virginia state line. Although it is a relatively small urban area, its location makes it an excellent base to check out the wonderful national forests, mountains, lakes, and parks of the region. If you like day trips and are looking for spots to visit with your family or friends, these are some beautiful and nearby destinations you should explore.

Pisgah National Forest

Located about 80 miles south of downtown Kingsport, Pisgah National Forest is a family friendly destination that can be reached in about an hour and a half by car along route US-26. Nestled deep in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina, this beautiful nature reserve was established in 1916 and is considered one of the oldest national forests in the United States. Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, Pisgah National Forest is divided into three wilderness areas.

One of the reasons behind Pisgah National Forest’s popularity as a day trip destination among visitors from Kingsport and other towns and cities in Tennessee and North Carolina is its stunning diversity. Covering an area of over 510,000 acres, this place features some of the highest mountains in the region, as well as waterfalls, rivers, and a large network of hiking trails. Some of the activities you can enjoy here include mountain biking, hiking, fishing, and rock climbing.

Cherokee National Forest

Cherokee National Forest is another large nature reserve located about 80 miles southwest of downtown Kingsport and spanning an area of about 655,000 acres across the states of Tennessee and North Carolina. Established in 1920 and welcoming almost three million visitors each year, this national forest is home to numerous species of local flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for wildlife watching and photography. Getting here from the Kingsport city center takes a little under two hours by car.

Besides its diverse wildlife, Cherokee National Forest is also a top-rated destination for hiking, fishing, mountain biking, horseback riding, boating, kayaking, and canoeing. If you feel like a day trip is not enough to explore this expansive nature reserve, numerous developed and primitive camping areas are available throughout the forest. Some of the places you should not miss while in the area include Bald River Falls, Watauga Lake, and the French Broad River bend.

Natural Tunnel State Park

Located a little over 20 miles north of downtown Kingsport, Natural Tunnel State Park is one of the most interesting attractions in the area. The park’s main feature is a naturally formed cave up to 80 feet high and 200 feet wide in which scientists have discovered evidence of prehistoric life, including fossils and carvings. The cave is so large it is still used nowadays as railroad tunnel. Common activities among visitors include camping, swimming, hiking, and picnicking.

Are you ready to explore these fantastic destinations and go on a fun day trip with your family? Before you head out, see us at Toyota of Kingsport in Kingsport, TN to check out our new and used cars, learn about our financing plans, and drive home in the car of your dreams.

Image by Otodex from Pixabay

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