Roane County , TeNnEsSeE
Located in the heart of East Tennessee , Roane County features the best in lake living , live music & life-changing history . Home to Watts Bar Lake , this 39,000-acre recreational paradise is a favorite for water sports and fishing alike . With low-traffic , water levels fluctuating only five feet between seasons , and three unique tributaries making up the waterway , a multitude of activities can be enjoyed yearround .
Off the water , there are 17,000 acres of public parks and wildlife areas that include 60 miles of paved or marked trails , 10 lakeside parks , 5 campgrounds , 5 golf courses , 2 disc golf courses , a splash pad and an observatory .
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History buffs enjoy the chance to explore Fort Southwest Point ( Tennessee ’ s only pioneer-era fort standing on its original location ), walk the cobblestone streets of Cornstalk Heights Historic District , the first planned community , to view hundreds of grand Victorian homes and learn how Roane County played a role in WWII ’ s Manhattan Project that changed the world forever .
After a full day of activity , there are many opportunities to kick back and relax with live music and local food . Enjoy bluegrass music at Bradbury Community Club or instrumental classics by the Babahatchie Community Band . Many intimate venues offer a laid-back vibe to enjoy local musicians most weekends . In addition , area restaurants offer a taste of whatever you ’ re craving , from southern biscuits and gravy to local craft beer .
Festivals here are filled with toe-tapping music , delicious fare and a hometown spirit like no other . In the Spring , Roane is home to the Thunder Road Festival and Tennessee Medieval Faire while summer and fall focus in on Gizmo Jam , the Fruit Cobbler Festival , Smokin ’ the Water July 4 th Festival , and the October Sky Festival . Every winter you can celebrate the season with the Fort ’ s Colonial Christmas Tour and Christmas home tours .
134 | Spring 2018 | Travel South