Summer fun is in full swing in east Tennessee
LOUDON COUNTY, TENNESSEE–JULY 2019–Summertime is prime time to visit Loudon County. Known as the Lakeway to the Smokies, this east Tennessee region has long been a favorite spot for those traveling to the Smoky Mountains because of its convenient Interstate access from 1-75 and I-40 East. More recently, it has become a destination of its own as a summer getaway spot between Knoxville and Chattanooga. Downtown charm, outdoor activities and authentic attractions give visitors plenty of summer fun to choose from.
There’s nothing better than summer days on the water. The lakes and rivers of Loudon County set the stage for its abundance of outdoor opportunities. The wide array of outstanding water activities includes fishing, boating, swimming, waterskiing, canoeing and kayaking. A great place to start is at Lenoir City Park (6707 City Park Drive, Lenoir City, TN 37772). It is just one of the public access points to Fort Loudoun Lake, a 14,600-acre reservoir with 379 miles of shoreline and amazing views of the Smokies. Whether bringing your own gear or renting from River Sports Outfitters (6707 City Park Drive, Lenoir City, TN 37772), you’ll find a day of fishing or floating, paddling or pontooning, is heaven!
On land, adventure and challenge await along the trail of your choice. For those who want to take a hike, scenic trails and public parks offer a variety of options, all with beautiful views. The East Lakeshore Trail, a National Recreational Trail, comprises nine sections along the eastern shore of Tellico Lake. For those who prefer the links, challenge awaits! An impressive array of public and semi-private courses offers golfers exceptional quality golf and Tennessee hospitality. Tellico Village (202 Chota Road, Loudon, TN 37774) and Rarity Bay (403 Rarity Bay Parkway, Vonore, TN 37885) are home to beautiful championship courses with superb lake and mountain views.
Loudon County is also home to authentic attractions. Topping the list are the Tennessee Valley Winery (15606 Hotchkiss Valley Road, Loudon, TN 37774) and Sweetwater Valley Farm (17988 W Lee Highway, Philadelphia, TN 37846). Enjoy the fruits of the region, with samplings from the winery’s more than 10 varieties and from Sweetwater’s award-winning cheese, right from the farm.
Shopping is another popular pastime. From the specialty retail shops of downtown Lenoir City and Loudon to the area’s eclectic shops of the Highway 11 Antique Trail, there are plenty of treasures to be found. Of course, along the way a stop at one of the area farmers’ markets is always a treat, as well! Historic sites, both in downtown districts and across the region, add even more ways to immerse into this east Tennessee community.
Now is the time to hit the road and head to Loudon County while summer is in full swing. The Lakeway to the Smokies is the perfect spot for a summer getaway. You can find lodging options and more details at VisitLoudonCounty.com.
IF YOU GO:
No summertime trip to
Loudon County would be complete without a stop at Tic
Toc Ice Cream Parlor (504 Grove St., Loudon, TN 37774). Named among the top ten ice
cream parlors in Tennessee, Tic Toc is only open seasonally and its annual
opening day is recognized far and wide as a harbinger of spring. All of the 30
flavors are homemade.