Adventure Outdoors Magazine Spring 2018 | Page 68

Elizabethton Carter County, TeNnEsSeE T UCKED INTO THE MOUNTAINS OF NORTHEAST TENNESSEE, CARTER COUNTY IS TENNESSEE’S MOUN- TAIN PLAYGROUND. With beautiful Watauga Lake, the Watauga and Doe rivers, and countless trails for hiking and biking the op- portunities for outdoor recreation are limitless. Over 100 miles of the Appalachian Trail wind through Carter County making it a hiking heaven. Take in the stunning panoramic views while traversing the balds on Roan Mountain at an elevation of over 6000 feet or make a trek to one of 19 different waterfalls. If you prefer exploring on two wheels, bike trails weave along the Doe River through downtown Elizabethton and the 10 mile Tweetsie Trail follows the former ET&WNC railroad right-of-way. Mountain biking trails are also available at the Hampton Watershed Trails and at Roan Mountain State Park. If spending some time on the water appeals to you there are plenty of options for boating on Watauga Lake, kayaking or paddle boarding down one of the rivers or fishing in the mountain streams. One of only two trophy trout streams in the state, the Watauga River is the perfect place to enjoy fishing in Carter County. Guided rafting and kayaking trips are also available on the Watauga. Your mountain adventure could also include a zip line tour through the forest at Off the Grid Mountain Adven- tures, exploring the mountains on horseback with the Back Country Horsemen of East Tennessee, or visiting the world's largest natural rhododendron garden at Roan Mountain State Park. Stay at a cozy bed and breakfast or rent a cabin in the mountains for a comfortable and convenient place to relax. Want to sleep under the stars? Campgrounds can be found close to many of the best attractions. After a long day in the mountains stroll through historic downtown Elizabethton and enjoy the many dining and shopping opportunities. Come visit Carter County and see why Tennessee’s Mountain Playground is a premier destination for out- door recreation.