From a clear mountain lake to miles of national forest trails, there’s plenty to do in and around Mountain City. Here are some of the area’s best-known places to start.
Hours, fees and trail conditions change. Always check with the operator or the official site before you go.
Watauga Lake
Johnson County is home to beautiful Watauga Lake, known for its clear water and mountain views. It’s a favorite for swimming, fishing, boating and paddling by kayak or paddleboard.
Hiking, the Cherokee National Forest and the Appalachian Trail
Large areas of Johnson County lie within the Cherokee National Forest, with trails for every level. A section of the world-famous Appalachian Trail also passes through Johnson County.
Backbone Rock
Backbone Rock is a natural landmark in the Cherokee National Forest in Johnson County, known for the short tunnel cut through the rock for a railroad. The recreation area has hiking trails and is a popular stop for photos.
Doe Mountain Recreation Area
Doe Mountain Recreation Area covers about 8,600 acres of mountain terrain with multi-use trails for off-road vehicles, mountain biking and hiking. Its 60-foot Kettlefoot Fire Tower offers wide views of the surrounding mountains on a clear day. Check the recreation area’s website for permits and trail information before you visit.
Scenic drives and overlooks
Mountain roads, farm valleys and overlooks make Johnson County a great place for a drive, especially when the leaves change in the fall.
“The Snake” on U.S. 421
Between Mountain City and Bristol, U.S. Highway 421 winds over the mountains and through Shady Valley. Known as “The Snake,” it’s famous for its many curves and draws motorcyclists and sports-car drivers from all over. See the Johnson County Chamber’s guide to The Snake.
Music and heritage
Johnson County has deep roots in old-time and bluegrass music. In town, the Musical Heritage Mural Mile celebrates that history with murals you can explore on foot.
Johnson County Welcome Center & Museum
A great first stop. The log cabin Welcome Center has brochures and information about lodging and local attractions, and houses a small history museum with local artifacts and photographs. There’s no charge to tour the museum.
- Address: 716 S Shady St, Mountain City, TN 37683
- Phone: (423) 727-5800
- Open: weekdays. Please call ahead to confirm hours.
More information
- Johnson County, TN: Things to Do (official county site)
- Johnson County Chamber of Commerce
- Doe Mountain Recreation Area
- Cherokee National Forest (U.S. Forest Service)
Looking for somewhere to eat or stay? Browse restaurants and lodging in the local directory.