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.