Mountain City Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Mountain City, Tennessee with this comprehensive travel guide featuring natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, must-try dishes, and other useful information.


Introduction to Mountain City

Mountain City is a charming town located in Eastern Tennessee, in the United States of America. Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, it offers visitors stunning views, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences. With a population of just over 2,000 people, Mountain City has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

List of Places to Visit in Mountain City

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you are interested in history and culture, Mountain City has plenty of museums and historical sites to explore. Here are some of the must-visit attractions:

  • The Heritage Hall Theatre: a historic theater that hosts live performances and events.
  • The Johnson County Historical Society Museum: a small museum that showcases the history and culture of the region.
  • The Tennessee Forest Festival: an annual festival celebrating the natural resources and traditions of the area.

Natural Attractions of Mountain City: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Mountain City is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. From mountain hiking trails to scenic drives, there are plenty of ways to explore the great outdoors. Here are some of the natural attractions that you won’t want to miss:

  • Doe Mountain Recreation Area: a beautiful park with miles of hiking and biking trails, perfect for outdoor recreation enthusiasts.
  • Roan Mountain State Park: a wonderful place to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, camping, and fishing.
  • Watauga Lake: a popular spot for water sports and activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mountain City

Mountain City is a paradise for hikers and bikers. With stunning mountain vistas and lush forests, you’ll find plenty of trails to explore. Here are some popular routes:

  • The Doe Mountain Trail: a 7-mile hiking and biking trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • The Virginia Creeper Trail: a 34-mile trail that starts in Whitetop, Virginia and ends in Abingdon, Virginia, passing through Mountain City along the way.
  • The Appalachian Trail: a well-known hiking trail that runs from Georgia to Maine, with a section passing through the town of Mountain City.

Best Things to Do in Mountain City: Activities and Tours

Mountain City offers a range of activities and guided tours to suit all visitors. Here are some of the best ways to experience the town:

  • The Johnson County Farmers Market: a great place to shop for fresh produce and locally-made goods.
  • Fly fishing: the area is home to some of the best trout fishing in the region, with guided tours available for all skill levels.
  • Wine tours: the town is located in the Appalachian High Country Wine Region, and there are several wineries to visit for tastings and tours.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mountain City

Day 1: Visit the Johnson County Historical Society Museum and the Heritage Hall Theatre. Day 2: Hike the Doe Mountain Trail and explore Doe Mountain Recreation Area. Day 3: Visit Watauga Lake for a day at the beach and a boat ride. Day 4: Take a guided fly fishing tour. Day 5: Drive the Virginia Creeper Trail and stop at scenic spots along the way. Day 6: Take a wine tour of the local wineries. Day 7: Relax and enjoy the small-town charm of Mountain City.

Food and Drink Scene of Mountain City

Must-Try Dishes

Mountain City offers a range of dining options, from southern comfort food to international cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes:

  • Country ham: a cured ham that is famous in the region for its salty and sweet flavor.
  • The BLT: a classic sandwich made with freshly baked bread and ripe tomatoes.
  • Moon pies: a sweet snack that originated in the South, made with marshmallow filling sandwiched between two cookies and dipped in chocolate.

Local Beverages

The region is known for its craft beer and locally made wines. Here are some recommendations:

  • Hammer Down Brewing Co.: a local brewery that offers a range of craft beers.
  • Watauga Lake Winery: a beautiful winery with outdoor seating and stunning views of the lake.

Where to Stay in Mountain City: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mountain City offers a range of accommodation options, from hotels to guesthouses. Here are some popular choices:

  • Mountain City Bed and Breakfast
  • Redtail Mountain Resort
  • Americourt Hotel

What to Buy in Mountain City: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Mountain City is known for its local crafts and souvenirs. Here are some popular items to bring home:

  • Handcrafted pottery: made by local artists, pottery is a popular souvenir that reflects the artistic heritage of the region.
  • Country ham: bring home a taste of the South by packing some cured ham to take with you.
  • Local honey: made from the nectar of local wildflowers, honey is a sweet and delicious souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Mountain City

Mountain City is known for its friendly and welcoming residents. The town has a rich history and culture, and visitors are encouraged to explore the local museums and historical sites to learn more about the region.

Best Time to Visit Mountain City

The best time to visit Mountain City is in the fall, when the leaves are changing and the weather is mild. However, the town is beautiful year-round and visitors can enjoy outdoor activities during all seasons.

Do’s and Don’ts for Mountain City

Do:

  • Explore the natural beauty of the region.
  • Visit local museums and historical sites to learn about the town’s culture and history.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Leave trash on hiking trails or natural areas.
  • Ignore local customs and traditions.
  • Be disrespectful to residents or other visitors.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mountain City

Mountain City is generally a safe town. Visitors should be aware of their surroundings, especially when hiking along trails and in natural areas.

Health in Mountain City

Visitors should be sure to bring adequate sunscreen and insect repellent, as well as appropriate clothing for outdoor activities. In case of an emergency, the Johnson County Hospital is located in Mountain City.

Getting to Mountain City: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Mountain City

The closest airports are the Tri-Cities Regional Airport and the Asheville Regional Airport.

Bus Stations Near Mountain City

The nearest bus station is located in Boone, North Carolina, approximately 40 miles away.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car to travel to Mountain City or take a train to nearby Johnson City, Tennessee.

How to Get Around in Mountain City

The best way to get around Mountain City is by car. However, visitors can also bike or walk around town.

Where to Go Next from Mountain City: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Mountain City is located near several other popular tourist destinations. Here are some nearby places to visit:

  • Cherokee National Forest: located just south of Mountain City, this beautiful forest offers a range of outdoor activities.
  • Bristol, Tennessee: a town famous for its NASCAR racetrack and birthplace of country music.
  • Asheville, North Carolina: a vibrant city with a thriving arts scene, located just across the state line from Mountain City.

Conclusion

Mountain City is a hidden gem in Eastern Tennessee. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history and culture, and wide range of outdoor activities, it’s the perfect destination for anyone looking for a relaxing vacation in the rural South.