East Tennessee Crossing Byway: Tennessee's Wilderness Road

06/12/2026

Trade traffic lights for mountain vistas.

Trade rushing for wandering.

Take the scenic route on the East Tennessee Crossing Byway, where historic towns, rolling farmland, and Appalachian landscapes remind us that the journey is every bit as rewarding as the destination.

06/12/2026

Where history and adventure meet, you'll find the Cumberland Gap.

For centuries, this natural passage through the mountains has welcomed travelers, explorers, and settlers. Today, it remains a crossroads of discovery as the terminus of two National Scenic Byways—the East Tennessee Crossing Byway (Tennessee's Wilderness Road) and the Cumberland Historic Byway.

Stand where generations of travelers began new journeys and experience one of America's great gateways.

06/10/2026

Summer is rolling in along the East Tennessee Crossing Byway. 🍅

As you travel winding backroads and small-town main streets, you'll find fields of ripening tomatoes, roadside farm stands, and farmers markets filled with fresh local flavors. The scenery isn't just beautiful—it's delicious.

Take the scenic route and savor the taste of an East Tennessee summer.

06/08/2026

Cruise Through History in Newport, Tennessee 🚗✨

The East Tennessee Crossing Byway has carried pioneers, moonshiners, and even some of the earliest road racers through the mountains of East Tennessee. Today, that rich automotive heritage comes alive every June when downtown Newport welcomes hundreds of classic cars, antique automobiles, hot rods, and muscle cars for the annual Moonshine Rod Run. For more than 30 years, this family-friendly tradition has celebrated the region's moonshine history and love of the open road, drawing car enthusiasts and spectators from across the Southeast. Best of all—admission is free!

06/06/2026

The [Popcorn Sutton Meomorial Jam ](https://www.facebook.com/pcorn423/)is held annually at the Cocke County Fairgrounds in Newport, TN. Gates open at 3 pm on Friday and 11 am on Saturday. The party will end between 10:30 pm and 11 pm each night. ...

06/05/2026

Two downtowns. Countless stories.

Congratulations to Rutledge and Newport on their acceptance into the Tennessee Downtowns Program! These historic communities along the East Tennessee Crossing Byway bridge their future while preserving the character, culture, and heritage that make them special.

The next time you travel the Byway, take time to stroll downtown, explore local shops, and discover the stories that have shaped East Tennessee for generations.

06/04/2026

Cherokee Lake Sunsets...

Join us for our first canoe float of the season! Tickets are $10 per person. For more information and to register please visit: https://reserve.tnstateparks.com/register/sunset-canoe-float846468441648684761

06/03/2026

🚲 Happy World Bicycle Day!

Did you know one of East Tennessee's most unique museums is dedicated to the history of bicycles? Nestled in the heart of downtown Cumberland Gap, the Little Congress Bicycle Museum showcases vintage bicycles and the stories behind America's cycling heritage.

Take a stroll through this charming historic town, explore the museum, and discover how two wheels helped shape our past. 🚴‍♀️✨

06/01/2026

One of the most anticipated summer festivals along the byway is the Popcorn Sutton Jam! 🎶🥃

Plan now for two days of music, moonshiners, mountain heritage, and Appalachian culture celebrating the legendary Popcorn Sutton. From live bluegrass and Americana music to local crafts, storytelling, and regional traditions, this is a weekend that captures the spirit of the Smokies.
https://tennesseerivervalleygeotourism.org/entries/popcorn-sutton-annual-memorial-jam/f86ae45c-0d8f-46e7-b49e-90f09db554b5

Mark your calendar and experience one of East Tennessee’s most unique summer festivals!

The [Popcorn Sutton Meomorial Jam ](https://www.facebook.com/pcorn423/)is held annually at the Cocke County Fairgrounds in Newport, TN. Gates open at 3 pm on Friday and 11 am on Saturday. The party will end between 10:30 pm and 11 pm each night. ...

05/28/2026

And the music continues Friday and Saturday along the East Tennessee Crossing Byway in historic Mossy Creek at the first annual Creek Fest! 🎶🌿

This free community festival brings live music, local flavor, and small-town charm together in one unforgettable weekend. Come experience historic Mossy Creek, enjoy the festivities, and celebrate the spirit of summer in East Tennessee.

Free to attend. Bring your friends and make a weekend of it!