Cumberland Plateau Tennessee Map Travel Guide: Discover The Hidden Gems

Introduction

Cumberland Plateau in Tennessee is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, history, and culture. The area boasts of stunning waterfalls, scenic hiking trails, historic landmarks, and a vibrant food and music scene. This comprehensive travel guide will help you explore the best of Cumberland Plateau.

Top Attractions

1. Fall Creek Falls State Park

Fall Creek Falls State Park is a must-visit destination in the Cumberland Plateau. The park has six waterfalls, including the highest waterfall east of the Mississippi River. You can hike, swim, fish, and camp in the park.

2. Sewanee: The University of the South

Sewanee is a picturesque university town located atop a mountain. The town has stunning architecture, historic landmarks, and a vibrant cultural scene. You can visit the university’s campus, attend a concert, or explore the town’s art galleries and boutiques.

3. South Cumberland State Park

South Cumberland State Park is another outdoor paradise in the Cumberland Plateau. The park has multiple hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks. You can also go camping, rock climbing, or caving in the park.

Hidden Gems

1. Savage Gulf State Natural Area

Savage Gulf State Natural Area is a hidden gem that offers a unique hiking experience. The area has deep gorges, waterfalls, and sandstone cliffs. You can hike the Savage Day Loop, which is a challenging but rewarding trail that takes you through the heart of the area.

2. Monteagle Sunday School Assembly

Monteagle Sunday School Assembly is a historic gathering place that has been hosting conferences and events for over a century. The assembly has stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and a serene atmosphere. You can attend a lecture, concert, or worship service in the assembly.

3. Foster Falls

Foster Falls is a hidden gem that offers a stunning view of the surrounding area. You can hike to the falls, which are located in the South Cumberland State Park. The falls are a popular spot for rock climbing and rappelling.

Food Scene

The food scene in the Cumberland Plateau is diverse and delicious. You can try Southern comfort food, farm-to-table cuisine, and international flavors. Some of the top restaurants in the area include The Wild Hare, High Point Restaurant, and The Blue Chair Cafe & Tavern.

Budget-Friendly Tips

The Cumberland Plateau is an affordable destination that offers plenty of free and low-cost activities. You can hike, swim, and explore the parks and natural areas for free. You can also attend free concerts, festivals, and events in the area. Camping and backpacking are also budget-friendly options.

Outdoor Adventures

The Cumberland Plateau is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. You can hike, bike, swim, fish, hunt, and camp in the area. You can also go rock climbing, caving, and rappelling in the parks and natural areas. The area is also home to some of the best birdwatching spots in the country.

Historical Landmarks

The Cumberland Plateau has a rich history that is reflected in its landmarks and museums. You can visit the Civil War sites, historic homes, and museums in the area. Some of the top historical landmarks include the Andrew Jackson State Park, the Sam Davis Home, and the Oaklands Historic House Museum.

Family-Friendly Activities

The Cumberland Plateau is a great destination for families. You can take your kids to the parks, museums, and events in the area. You can also go on a family hike, fishing trip, or camping adventure. Some of the top family-friendly activities include the Tennessee Aquarium, the Chattanooga Zoo, and the Creative Discovery Museum.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

The Cumberland Plateau has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences that are worth exploring. You can visit the historic cemeteries, drive the scenic byways, or attend a bluegrass jam session. Some of the top off-the-beaten-path experiences include the Sequatchie Valley Scenic Byway, the Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park, and the South Cumberland Flea Market.

Natural Wonders

The natural wonders in the Cumberland Plateau are breathtaking. You can explore the waterfalls, caves, and canyons in the area. You can also go on a scenic drive or hike to see the stunning landscapes. Some of the top natural wonders include the Rock Island State Park, the Burgess Falls State Park, and the Lost Creek State Natural Area.

Vibrant Nightlife

The Cumberland Plateau has a vibrant nightlife that is centered around its music and arts scene. You can attend a concert, dance performance, or theater production in the area. You can also visit the bars, clubs, and music venues in the towns. Some of the top nightlife spots include the Palace Theatre, the Bluegrass Underground, and the Cumberland Caverns Live.

Local Markets

The local markets in the Cumberland Plateau are a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs. You can visit the farmers’ markets, craft fairs, and antique shops in the area. You can also sample the local produce, baked goods, and crafts. Some of the top local markets include the Chattanooga Market, the Monteagle Farmers Market, and the South Cumberland Farmers Market.

Beaches and Mountains

The Cumberland Plateau has a diverse landscape that includes both beaches and mountains. You can visit the beaches on the nearby lakes, such as Center Hill Lake and Dale Hollow Lake. You can also hike or drive to the mountain peaks, such as the Clingmans Dome and the Lookout Mountain. Some of the top beaches and mountains in the area include the Rock Island State Park Beach and the Monteagle Mountain.

Cultural Immersion

The Cumberland Plateau has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its music, arts, and traditions. You can attend a cultural festival, visit a museum, or take a cultural tour in the area. You can also participate in a cultural workshop or class. Some of the top cultural immersion experiences include the National Cornbread Festival, the Appalachian Center for Craft, and the Cumberland Homesteads Tower Museum.

Art and Music Scene

The art and music scene in the Cumberland Plateau is vibrant and diverse. You can visit the art galleries, music venues, and theaters in the area. You can also attend a concert or exhibition. Some of the top art and music venues include the Tennessee Performing Arts Center, the Chattanooga Symphony and Opera, and the Chattanooga Theatre Centre.

Walking Tours

The walking tours in the Cumberland Plateau are a great way to explore the towns and historic landmarks in the area. You can take a guided tour or a self-guided tour. Some of the top walking tours include the Chattanooga Ghost Tours, the Sewanee Walking Tours, and the Monteagle Sunday School Assembly Tour.

Architectural Marvels

The architectural marvels in the Cumberland Plateau are stunning. You can visit the historic homes, churches, and buildings in the area. You can also attend a guided tour or a lecture. Some of the top architectural marvels include the Tennessee State Capitol, the Belle Meade Plantation, and the Ryman Auditorium.

Historical Sites

The historical sites in the Cumberland Plateau are a testament to the area’s rich history. You can visit the Civil War battlefields, the historic homes, and the museums in the area. You can also attend a reenactment or a lecture. Some of the top historical sites include the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, the Stones River National Battlefield, and the Andrew Johnson National Historic Site.

Biking Routes

The biking routes in the Cumberland Plateau offer scenic views and challenging terrain. You can bike on the roads, trails, and greenways in the area. You can also rent a bike or join a biking club. Some of the top biking routes include the Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail, the Riverwalk Greenway, and the Chattanooga Riverfront.

Wellness Retreats

The wellness retreats in the Cumberland Plateau offer a peaceful and rejuvenating experience. You can attend a yoga session, a meditation class, or a spa treatment in the area. You can also stay at a wellness resort or a retreat center. Some of the top wellness retreats include the Sewanee Inn, the Blackberry Farm, and the Chattanooga Day Spa.

Adventure Sports

The adventure sports in the Cumberland Plateau are thrilling and unforgettable. You can go whitewater rafting, kayaking, or canoeing in the area. You can also go ziplining, bungee jumping, or skydiving. Some of the top adventure sports include the Ocoee River Rafting, the Adventureworks Zipline Course, and the Lookout Mountain Hang Gliding.