Trails & Byways
You can stumble upon a lot of hidden gems when you take the scenic route—like that unassuming restaurant or a secret swimming hole. Our 16 self-guided driving routes connect Tennessee’s 95 counties so you can discover places you never knew you’ve always wanted to visit.
Trails feature attractions, restaurants and other places worth a stop as you’re driving around the state. Whether you want to walk in the footsteps of Johnny Cash or go on a rolling river adventure, there’s a trail to help you discover more of Tennessee.
See the trails
Filter down the trails by location or by clicking the signs below:
Cotton Junction Trail
Teapots to sweet spots. Get ready for a rural journey through West Tennessee, named for the hypnotic beauty of the region’s signature cotton fields.
Learn MoreGreat River Road Trail
Make your way through high bluffs and natural areas brimming with wildlife, stopping through small towns and stories of Civil War tension.
Learn MoreThe Jack Trail
Saddle up and hit The Jack Trail, where history, music, horses and distilleries are waiting to be discovered.
Learn MoreNashville's Trace Trail
Wineries, honky tonks, the great outdoors and secrets from the past. Walk in the footsteps of David Crockett and U.S. Presidents Andrew Jackson and James K. Polk.
Learn MoreOld Tennessee Trail
Take a scenic drive as rich in history as it is in fresh air, gently rolling hills, and down-home charm.
Learn MorePie In the Sky Trail
Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a strolling nature lover, the views on this mountain trail are some of the best Tennessee has to offer.
Learn MorePromised Land Trail
The pioneer spirit lives on. Retrace the footsteps of Tennessee’s earliest pioneers through forested mountains and hills.
Learn MoreRing of Fire Trail
Discover some of Middle Tennessee’s most unique experiences and rich history — from settlers and Civil War soldiers to the Bell Witch and underwater ghost towns.
Learn MoreRocky Top Trail
Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park, explore an underground world, take a wildflower hike and see first hand why this magical landscape draws nature-lovers from around the globe.
Learn MoreScreaming Eagle Trail
Take a journey through Middle Tennessee’s history, landscape, music and cuisine.
Learn MoreSunny Side Trail
Drive through Smoky Mountain backroads and lush Appalachian countryside to find your thrills.
Learn MoreTanasi Trail
Explore early Native American footpaths, the passages of the early westbound settlers, the railroads that changed life and commerce forever, and today’s protected scenic byways and gorgeous overlooks.
Learn MoreTennessee River Trail
Discover the good life. Hike. Canoe. Birdwatch. Fish. Stop in quaint historic towns peppered throughout the journey.
Learn MoreTop Secret Trail
Take a journey through some of East Tennessee’s beautiful scenery and best-kept secrets.
Learn MoreWalking Tall Trail
Rockabilly, rails and legendary trails. Explore charming small towns, mom-and-pop eateries, courthouse squares and barbecue gems.
Learn MoreWhite Lightning Trail
unique American stories told every day through Appalachian arts and crafts, preserved buildings and sites, historic town squares and the tales of legendary characters.
Learn More