Jellico Travel Guide

Jellico is home to natural attractions, outdoor adventures, scenic routes, and local cuisines. Explore the culturally rich and vibrant city of Eastern Tennessee with our Jellico Travel Guide.


Introduction to Jellico

Nestled in the heart of Eastern Tennessee, Jellico is a small city known for its scenic beauty, natural attractions, and rich cultural heritage. The city is bordered by the Cumberland Mountains and the Tennessee-Kentucky state line, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Jellico offers a wide range of activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and exploring historical sites. With its friendly locals and laid-back atmosphere, Jellico is the ideal place for a relaxing getaway. We’ve put together a comprehensive travel guide to help you plan your trip to Jellico.

List of Places to Visit in Jellico

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Jellico’s history is deeply rooted in the coal mining industry, and you can explore the city’s past with a visit to the Jellico Coal Mining Museum. The museum features exhibits on the town’s coal mining history, including photographs, mining equipment, and other artifacts.

Another must-visit museum is the Jellico Railroad Museum, which offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s railroad history. You can see antique trains and learn about the role the railroad played in shaping Jellico’s growth.

Natural Attractions of Jellico: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Jellico is home to a number of natural attractions that are perfect for outdoor activities and scenic drives. Take a trip to the Cove Lake State Park and enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing in the park’s 210-acre lake. You can also hike the park’s trails and admire the stunning views of the Cumberland Mountains.

If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, visit the Cumberland Trail State Park. With over 300 miles of hiking trails, the park offers scenic vistas and unspoiled wilderness areas. Experience the thrill of rock climbing at Devil’s Racetrack, or go mountain biking on the park’s challenging trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Jellico

Jellico is a hiker’s paradise, with numerous trails offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The Cumberland Gap National Historical Park is a popular spot for hikers, with over 85 miles of trails to explore.

For those looking for a more leisurely hike, the Indian Mountain State Park features a two-mile self-guided nature trail. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is an excellent place for bird watching.

If you’re a mountain biker, head to the O&W Trail, a 14-mile rail trail that follows the path of the historic Oneida & Western Railroad. The trail is relatively flat and perfect for beginners.

Best Things to Do in Jellico: Activities and Tours

In addition to its outdoor attractions, Jellico offers several other activities for visitors to enjoy. Take a guided tour of the area’s caves, including the popular Forbidden Caverns, and discover a hidden underworld of spectacular rock formations and underground waterfalls.

If you’re interested in local culture, visit the Appalachian Arts Craft Center, which showcases the work of local artists and craftspeople. The center offers classes on traditional Appalachian crafts such as basket weaving and pottery.

Week-Long Itinerary for Jellico

Day 1 - Arrive in Jellico and enjoy a relaxing day at the Cove Lake State Park. Day 2 - Take a guided tour of the Forbidden Caverns. Day 3 - Hike the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park trails. Day 4 - Visit the Jellico Coal Mining Museum and learn about the town’s coal mining history. Day 5 - Explore the O&W Trail on a mountain bike. Day 6 - Take a self-guided tour of the Indian Mountain State Park. Day 7 - Visit the Jellico Railroad Museum and learn about the city’s railroad history.

Food and Drink Scene of Jellico

Must-Try Dishes

Jellico is known for its delicious southern cuisine, and you won’t be disappointed with the local menus. Don’t miss out on trying some of Jellico’s famous dishes like the butter beans, fried green tomatoes, and country-style steak.

Local Beverages

Quench your thirst with traditional southern drinks like sweet tea, lemonade and homemade sodas.

Where to Stay in Jellico: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Jellico has plenty of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly motels to high-end hotels. Among the best-rated hotels in Jellico are Days Inn by Wyndham, Parkway Inn, and Econo Lodge.

What to Buy in Jellico: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Jellico is known for its local crafts and products, including hand-woven baskets, pottery, and homemade preserves. You can find these items at the Appalachian Arts Craft Center, which features the work of local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Jellico

Jellico is known for its friendly locals and laid-back atmosphere. The city celebrates its cultural heritage with various festivals and events throughout the year, including the Jellico Old Time Fiddlers’ Convention and the Coal Miner’s Festival.

Best Time to Visit Jellico

The best time to visit Jellico is between April and October when the weather is warm and pleasant. The city’s many outdoor attractions are at their best during this time and offer fabulous hiking, biking, and fishing opportunities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Jellico

Do:

  • Respect the city’s cultural heritage and traditions.
  • Practice responsible tourism and preserve the natural beauty of the area.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the area’s natural resources.
  • Engage in activities that harm the region’s wildlife or environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Jellico

Jellico is a safe city to visit, but visitors should take the usual precautions such as keeping their valuables safe and being aware of their surroundings. Always follow safety guidelines when engaging in outdoor activities like hiking and biking.

Health in Jellico

Jellico has medical facilities providing quality medical care. In case of medical emergencies, visitors can visit the Jellico Community Hospital or Jellico Medical Center.

Getting to Jellico: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Jellico

The nearest major airport to Jellico is the McGhee Tyson Airport, located just 70 miles south of the city.

Bus Stations Near Jellico

Greyhound Lines operates a bus service in the area, with a station located in Williamsburg, Kentucky, which is just 16 miles from Jellico.

Other Options

Visitors can travel to Jellico by car, and the city is easily accessible from Interstates 75 and 40.

How to Get Around in Jellico

Jellico is a small city that is easily accessible on foot, but visitors can also rent a car or use a taxi service to get around.

Where to Go Next from Jellico: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Jellico is situated in the heart of Eastern Tennessee, making it an excellent starting point for exploring the region. Some popular nearby destinations include the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Knoxville, and Chattanooga.

Conclusion

Jellico is a hidden gem in Tennessee, offering visitors a chance to explore the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your trip to Jellico and discover all that this charming city has to offer.